Gregory Blaxland
Explorer and early settler of Australia
An Australian farmer and explorer, contributed to the exploration of New South Wales. In 1813, led the first successful crossing of the Blue Mountains, which opened up new land for settlement. His journey played a significant role in the expansion of the agricultural frontier in Australia. Blaxland's work established essential routes that facilitated further exploration and colonization of the interior regions of New South Wales.
First successful crossing of the Blue Mountains
Settled in the New South Wales region
Other People Born on June 17th
Bobby Farrelly
Film director and screenwriter of comedies
Born
June 17th, 1958 67 years ago
An American director, producer, and screenwriter achieved prominence through collaborations with brother Peter Farrelly. Directed and co-wrote films, establishing a reputation in comedy. Best recognized for the film 'There's Something About Mary', which became a box office hit. Other notable works include 'Dumb and Dumber' and 'Me, Myself & Irene'.
Continue ReadingMartin Dillon
American tenor and educator
Born
June 17th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 48 years old
An accomplished tenor who gained recognition in the classical music scene, particularly in concert performances and operatic productions. Served as a dedicated educator, sharing expertise and mentoring students in vocal performance. Contributions to various music festivals and educational initiatives enriched the musical community. Collaborated with esteemed orchestras and ensembles throughout a prolific career, showcasing talent in diverse repertoires. Notable for performances that embraced both traditional and contemporary compositions.
Continue ReadingJacqueline Jones
Historian and academic specializing in history
Born
June 17th, 1948 77 years ago
An American historian and academic, significant contributions were made to the understanding of race, gender, and labor in America. An influential work, 'Saving Savannah: The City and the Civil War', examined the role of women during the Civil War period. Education was pursued at prestigious institutions, including a PhD in History from the University of California, Berkeley. Academic appointments included faculty positions at various universities, with a focus on African American history and women’s studies. The scholarship provided insights into the lives and experiences of marginalized groups in historical narratives.
Continue ReadingBud Collins
Sports journalist and tennis commentator
Born
June 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2016 9 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent sports journalist and broadcaster, this individual covered tennis for over six decades. Contributed regularly to The Boston Globe and served as a television commentator for several networks, including NBC and ESPN. Played a significant role in the popularization of tennis through insightful commentary and comprehensive coverage. Authored books on tennis and captured the culture of the sport with unique flair and style. Received several awards for sports journalism and was elected to the International Tennis Hall of Fame in recognition of contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingCarl Hermann
Physicist and academic focused on spectroscopy
Born
June 17th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1961 64 years ago — 63 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in spectroscopy and crystal structure analysis. Conducted pioneering research that advanced the understanding of crystal growth and properties. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing generations of physicists through both teaching and research. Published numerous scientific papers and books that became essential references in the field of solid-state physics.
Continue ReadingOmar Bundy
American general, World War I leader
Born
June 17th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1940 86 years ago — 78 years old
A U.S. Army general, served in various capacities during World War I and World War II. Graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. Commanded the 85th Division during World War I and later held significant positions in various military campaigns. Led troops in the Army of the Potomac during the American Civil War. Held the rank of major general by the time of retirement, further contributing to military strategy and development.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 1st
Bob Anderson
Fencer and Olympic silver medalist
Born
November 7th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2012 14 years ago — 64 years old
An accomplished fencer, specialized in the foil and Épée disciplines. Competed for Great Britain in multiple international events. Secured a silver medal in men's team foil at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Also achieved significant honors in the World Championships and European Championships throughout the career. Worked as a coach and contributed to the development of fencing in the UK after retiring from competition.
Continue ReadingArleigh Burke
Admiral and Chief of Naval Operations
Born
October 19th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1996 30 years ago — 94 years old
Served in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of Admiral. Played a significant role during World War II, commanding destroyer squadron engagements in the Pacific Theatre. Became Chief of Naval Operations from 1955 to 1961, overseeing critical advancements in naval strategy and technology. Contributed to the development of the Navy's missile programs and the overall modernization of the fleet. Held the title of a four-star Admiral, with a career marked by strategic naval leadership.
Continue ReadingJuanita Moore
American actress with Oscar nomination
Born
October 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2014 12 years ago — 99 years old
Acted in numerous films and television shows throughout a lengthy career. Gained recognition for a performance in the film 'Imitation of Life' (1959), which explored themes of race and motherhood. Appeared in various other projects, including the television series 'Perry Mason' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'Imitation of Life'.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Guardi
Italian painter of Venetian landscapes
Born
October 5th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1793 233 years ago — 80 years old
Active during the 18th century, this painter specialized in capriccios, and vedutas, focusing on the Venetian landscape. His work captured the vibrancy and architectural beauty of Venice, contributing significantly to the development of the landscape genre. As a teacher, he influenced future generations of artists. Although associated with the Rococo style, his compositions reflect a unique interpretation that merged realism with artistry. His later works evolved towards a more impressionistic style, demonstrating an innovative approach to color and light.
Continue ReadingOmar Karami
Lebanese politician, 58th Prime Minister
Born
September 7th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 11 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent Lebanese lawyer and politician, served as the 58th Prime Minister of Lebanon. Initially held the office from 2004 to 2005, and returned to power in 2011. Actively participated in Lebanese politics during a tumultuous period marked by political assassinations and civil unrest. Efforts were focused on rebuilding the political landscape of Lebanon, addressing issues of governance and national unity. Resigned in 2015 amidst challenges faced by the government and societal demands for reform. Contributed to discussions around Lebanon’s political framework and the role of leadership in navigating the country’s complex dynamics.
Continue ReadingArthur Rudolph
German-American aerospace engineer
Born
November 9th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1996 30 years ago — 89 years old
An engineer who played a key role in the development of the Saturn V rocket, instrumental in the Apollo program that landed humans on the Moon. His career included significant contributions to the design and testing of rocket systems. Emigrated to the United States after World War II, contributing to NASA's early space exploration efforts and advancing aerospace technology. Later became involved in controversies regarding his past during the war.
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