Hafez al-Assad
Syrian general and 20th President
Born in 1930, a Syrian general rose to prominence within the military and eventually became the 20th President of Syria in 1971. His leadership marked the establishment of a one-party state under the Ba'ath Party. Policies oriented towards socialism and Arab nationalism characterized his presidency. He oversaw significant changes in the Syrian economy and military structure, as well as regional conflict, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Lebanon.
Served as President of Syria from 1971 to 2000
Founded the Ba'ath Party's dominance in Syrian politics
Supervised military campaigns in the Lebanese Civil War
Other People Born on October 6th
Britt Ekland
Swedish actress and singer
Born
October 6th, 1942 83 years ago
Career spanned film, television, and music. Achieved fame through roles in the films 'The Man with the Golden Gun' and 'The Night They Raided Minsky's'. Became a popular figure in the 1960s and 1970s, especially within the British film industry. Recorded several singles, with the song 'The Man I Love' being among the notable works.
Continue ReadingArnaud Coyot
French professional cyclist
Born
October 6th, 1980 45 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2013 12 years ago — 33 years old
A professional cyclist from France, participated in multiple prestigious cycling events. Competed in the Tour de France and was part of the French national cycling team. Specialized in road racing and contributed to various team successes during his career.
Continue ReadingLevon Aronian
Chess Grandmaster and World Cup winner
Born
October 6th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, a grandmaster in chess, distinguished for achievements in international competitions. Aronian represented Armenia in various World Chess Olympiads, contributing to team victories. Notable for victory in the FIDE World Cup in 2005 and consistently competing at the top level. Aronian's contributions to chess extend through numerous tournaments, showcasing advanced strategies and deep understanding of the game. He has been a key figure in popularizing chess in Armenia.
Continue ReadingJan Keizer
Footballer and Referee in the Netherlands
Born
October 6th, 1940 85 years ago
Competed as a professional footballer and later served as a referee in the Netherlands. Played primarily as a defender for FC Groningen, participating in the Eredivisie during the 1960s. Transitioned into officiating and became recognized for refereeing multiple high-stakes matches in Dutch football.
Continue ReadingMéret Oppenheim
Painter and photographer, fur-covered cup
Born
October 6th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1985 40 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Germany, later moved to Switzerland, Oppenheim became a prominent figure in the Surrealist movement. A significant work included the fur-covered teacup titled 'Object' created in 1936, which exemplified her innovative approach to everyday items. Oppenheim's work frequently merged the boundaries of art and object, exploring themes of femininity and sexuality. Besides painting, engaged in photography and created various mixed media pieces. Oppenheim's contributions to Surrealism extended beyond her major works, influencing future generations of artists during her lifetime.
Continue ReadingManfred Winkelhock
Race Car Driver and Endurance Racer
Born
October 6th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1985 40 years ago — 33 years old
Born in 1951, this German race car driver participated in various international competitions, gaining recognition primarily for participation in endurance racing events. He competed in the World Sports Car Championship and had notable achievements in Formula 1. Throughout his career, he drove for several notable teams, including BMW and March Engineering, showcasing a competitive spirit and technical skill on the track. His legacy in motorsport is marked by his contributions to road racing and his performances in prestigious races.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 10th
Gordie Howe
Ice hockey player, the 'Mr. Hockey'
Born
March 31st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1928, this Canadian ice hockey player enjoyed a prolific career in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Detroit Red Wings. Spanning over 32 seasons, he became a symbol of excellence in the sport, amassing numerous records and accolades. Renowned for his exceptional skill and toughness on the ice, he played in 1,767 regular-season games, scoring 801 goals and providing 1,049 assists. The player also represented Canada in international competitions, contributing to successes in various tournaments. His contributions to the game earned the nickname 'Mr. Hockey', solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of ice hockey.
Continue ReadingDonald Regan
Colonel and 11th White House Chief of Staff
Born
December 21st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 11th White House Chief of Staff from 1985 to 1987 under President Ronald Reagan. Before assuming this role, held various positions in the U.S. government, including Secretary of the Treasury from 1981 to 1985. Played a significant role in economic policy and management during a pivotal period for the Reagan administration. His tenure included efforts related to tax reform and economic recovery. Additionally, served as a colonel in the United States Marine Corps.
Continue ReadingSigmar Polke
German painter and photographer
Born
February 13th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2010 15 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in the art world, contributions encompassed painting, photography, and collage. Pioneered innovative techniques combining traditional and experimental methods. Emerged as a key member of the Capitalist Realism movement, which responded to post-war consumer culture in West Germany. Explored themes of capitalism, history, and media, often utilizing humor and irony. Exhibited works globally in galleries and museums.
Continue ReadingWarner Fusselle
Sportscaster, Host of MLB on ESPN
Born
April 7th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1944, a prominent sportscaster in American sports broadcasting. Served as the host for Major League Baseball on ESPN during the 1980s and 1990s. Established a reputation for insightful commentary and engaging presentation style. Contributed to various sports programming, offering coverage for multiple sports including baseball and football. Held roles on several networks throughout a career spanning decades, influencing how sports coverage evolved in television.
Continue ReadingFrederick Delius
English composer of orchestral music
Born
January 29th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1934 91 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1862, this English composer rose to prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Delius created a distinctive musical style, blending elements of impressionism and pastoral themes. After spending time in Florida, the composer's works often reflected the American landscape and atmosphere. His orchestral piece, 'On Hearing the First Cuckoo in Spring,' is widely recognized and showcases his lyrical approach to composition. Delius gained acclaim in Europe, particularly through the advocacy of conductor Thomas Beecham, who brought many of his works to the concert stage, resulting in greater international recognition.
Continue ReadingJulia Drusilla
Roman political figure and sister of Caligula
Died
June 10th, 38 1987 years ago — None years old
Born in 16 AD, became an influential figure in Rome during the reign of her brother, Caligula. Held a prominent position within the Roman imperial family and participated in court politics. Acquired recognition for her connections to the imperial throne and her role in the early Julio-Claudian dynasty. Died in 38 AD, shortly after the assassination of Caligula, marking the end of her political relevance.
Continue Reading