Harlan Ellison
Author and screenwriter of speculative fiction
Born on May 27, 1934, contributed significantly to speculative fiction through novels, short stories, and television scripts. Worked on the original Star Trek series, writing the episode 'The City on the Edge of Forever.' Published influential works such as 'A Boy and His Dog' and 'I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream,' which have become classics in the genre. Engaged in critical commentary on the science fiction genre and media culture, shaping conversations around storytelling and ethical dilemmas in technology.
Wrote the episode 'The City on the Edge of Forever' for Star Trek
Published 'A Boy and His Dog' and 'I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream'
Other People Born on May 27th
Vontae Davis
American football cornerback
Born
May 27th, 1988 37 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2024 1 years ago — 35 years old
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) for teams including the Miami Dolphins, Indianapolis Colts, and Buffalo Bills. Notable for his skills in pass defense and coverage, contributed to teams with key interceptions and tackles throughout his career. Achieved recognition as a top defensive player and earned Pro Bowl selections during tenure with the Colts.
Continue ReadingIrina Davydova
Russian hurdler and track athlete
Born
May 27th, 1988 37 years ago
A Russian hurdler excelled in track and field events specializing in the 100 meters hurdles. Competed at national and international levels, representing Russia in major championships. Achieved personal bests and secured podium placements in various competitions throughout the athletic career.
Continue ReadingTheodor Curtius
German chemist known for Curtius rearrangement
Born
May 27th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1928 97 years ago — 70 years old
Contributions to organic chemistry included the development of the Curtius rearrangement, a reaction involving the conversion of carboxylic acids to isocyanates. Work included studies on photochemical reactions and the synthesis of new compounds. Published extensively in scientific journals, enhancing knowledge in organic chemistry. Collaborated with various researchers in the field, influencing further studies and methodologies.
Continue ReadingLouis Gossett Jr.
American actor and Oscar winner
Born
May 27th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old
An acclaimed actor, achieved prominence through powerful performances on stage and film. Won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in the film 'An Officer and a Gentleman.' Featured in the mini-series 'Roots,' which became a cultural milestone. Contributed to both television and film, showcasing a range of complex characters. Actively involved in the arts and mentoring young talent, helping to shape future generations of actors.
Continue ReadingCornelius Vanderbilt
Business magnate and philanthropist
Born
May 27th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1877 149 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent American businessman, he made significant contributions to the shipping and railroad industries during the 19th century. Starting with a ferry service, amassed wealth through shipping by the time of the Civil War. Expanded into railroads, acquiring and consolidating lines, ultimately creating one of the largest railroad networks in the United States. Established the Vanderbilt University in Tennessee through philanthropy, leaving a lasting legacy in education.
Continue ReadingMargrethe Munthe
Norwegian songwriter and children's author
Born
May 27th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1931 95 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent songwriter and children's author, the individual contributed significantly to Norwegian culture through music. Created a collection of songs that captured the essence of childhood and were widely embraced in Norway. Compiled several songbooks aimed at children, emphasizing playful lyrics and engaging melodies. The songwriter's works have remained popular in Norwegian schools and households.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 28th
Lowell Weicker
Politician, 85th Governor of Connecticut
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2023 2 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Connecticut and as the 85th Governor of Connecticut. Elected to the Senate in 1970, served until 1989. Governorship lasted from 1991 to 1995 during which major tax reforms and fiscal policies were implemented, including the introduction of a state income tax. Involved in various political initiatives and maintained an independent political stance throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAlexander Berkman
Lithuanian-American anarchist author
Born
November 21st, 1870 155 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1936 89 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Lithuania, engaged in anarchist activism in the United States. Played a crucial role in the labor movement, especially through involvement with the 1892 Homestead Strike. Served time in prison for an assassination attempt on industrialist Henry Clay Frick, which aimed to advance the anarchist cause. Authored several works, including 'ABC of Anarchism', contributing to anarchist literature. Advocated for revolutionary change through direct action and was involved with several anarchist publications.
Continue ReadingWally Stanowski
Ice hockey player with the Maple Leafs
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 96 years old
Played professional ice hockey primarily in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a forward. Competed for teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New York Rangers. Won the Stanley Cup in 1942 with the Maple Leafs. Concluded career in the 1950s, concluding in the minor leagues. Inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame for contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingJosé Iturbi
Pianist and conductor of classical music
Born
November 28th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1980 45 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent Spanish pianist and conductor, contributions to classical music included performances at major venues worldwide. Initiated music festival in his hometown and was instrumental in promoting classical music in the United States during the mid-20th century. Established a successful career in both performance and conducting, diverse repertoire ranged from classical compositions to popular music of the era. Recorded extensively, influencing future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingOn Kawara
Japanese-American conceptual artist
Born
December 24th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
This painter gained recognition for a series titled "Date Paintings," created between 1966 and 2014. Each work featured the date of its creation in a specific format, emphasizing the passage of time and existence. The artist utilized a consistent visual style with varying color backgrounds. His works were part of significant exhibitions, including the 1970 Venice Biennale and various prestigious galleries worldwide. This artist's practice reflected a profound engagement with time and memory, leading to notable influences on conceptual art.
Continue ReadingPat Summitt
Basketball coach and championship leader
Born
June 14th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 64 years old
Achieved recognition as a college basketball coach. Served as the head coach of the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers from 1974 to 2012. Led the team to eight NCAA championships and established numerous records within the sport. Her coaching career included mentoring many players who later pursued professional careers. Instituted the Pat Summitt Foundation to address Alzheimer's disease after being diagnosed with the condition.
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