Helen Wills
Tennis player and coach, 7-time Wimbledon champion
A significant tennis player and coach, this individual won a total of 31 Grand Slam titles, including 7 Wimbledon championships and 4 U.S. National Championships. Dominating the sport in the early 20th century, this person was an influential figure in tennis, known for remarkable skill and technique on the court. After a successful playing career, transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of future generations of tennis players.
Won 7 Wimbledon singles titles
Claimed 4 U.S. National Championships
Other People Born on October 6th
Archduchess Maria Anna of Austria
Austrian Archduchess and abbess
Born
October 6th, 1738 287 years ago
Died
1789 236 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1738, this Archduchess was a member of the House of Habsburg. She served as abbess of the Theresian Monastery in Jágrs, located in today’s Czech Republic. Her position within the Habsburg family included significant religious and administrative responsibilities. Throughout her life, she contributed to the development of the local community and was involved in charitable efforts related to the monastery. The Archduchess remained an influential figure within the courts of her contemporaries, balancing secular duties with her commitment to her ecclesiastical role.
Continue ReadingWenceslaus III of Bohemia
King of Bohemia and Hungary, 1301-1306
Born
October 6th, 1289 736 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1306 719 years ago — 16 years old
Wenceslaus III served as King of Bohemia from 1305 until his death in 1306. He also became King of Hungary in 1301. His reign was marked by the turbulent political conditions of the region, including conflicts with neighboring powers and internal strife. Wenceslaus III was the last ruler of the Přemyslid dynasty. His death in 1306 led to a power vacuum and contributed to the eventual decline of the dynasty's influence in Central Europe.
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 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 ReadingEdwin Fischer
Pianist and conductor, renowned for recordings
Born
October 6th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1960 65 years ago — 73 years old
A distinguished pianist and conductor emerged from Switzerland, contributing significantly to the classical music scene. Renowned for interpretations of composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, and Schubert, achieved acclaim through concert performances and recordings. Established a reputation as a conductor with various prestigious orchestras, including the Berlin Philharmonic and the Vienna Philharmonic. Founded the Swiss Festival Orchestra, enhancing the cultural landscape of classical music. Fischer's interpretations and recordings have been influential in shaping the perception of classical piano and orchestral works during the 20th century.
Continue ReadingCaroline Gordon
American author and literary critic
Born
October 6th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1981 44 years ago — 85 years old
An American author and critic, contributions spanned novels, essays, and literary criticism. Best known for works that focused on Southern life and culture. Authored several novels, including 'Penelope's Suitors,' which explored complex themes of love and loyalty. Served as an editor for various literary magazines and participated in the New York literary scene. Gordon's criticism and essays provided significant insights into American literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 1st
Margaret Sullavan
American actress in classic films
Born
May 16th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1960 65 years ago — 50 years old
Acclaimed American actress, notable for performances in the 1930s and 1940s. Starred in films such as "The Shop Around the Corner" and "Three Comrades." Also appeared in "The Moon's Our Home" and "The Good Fairy." Sullavan was recognized for her ability to convey deep emotion and connect with audiences. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role in "The Shop Around the Corner." Sullavan's career was marked by her work on Broadway, where her stage presence garnered attention.
Continue ReadingMario Cuomo
American politician and governor
Born
June 15th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the 52nd Governor of New York from 1983 to 1994. Before taking office, practiced law and held the position of Secretary of State of New York. Renowned for eloquent speeches, particularly at the Democratic National Convention in 1984. Played a crucial role in advancing progressive policies in New York during tenure as governor. Contributed significantly to the state budget reform and education policy.
Continue ReadingArleigh Burke
Admiral and Chief of Naval Operations
Born
October 19th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1996 29 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 ReadingFloyd Little
American football player, Hall of Famer
Born
July 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2021 4 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent American football player, achieved recognition in the National Football League (NFL) primarily as a running back for the Denver Broncos. Played from 1967 to 1975, earning five Pro Bowl selections during his career. Accumulated over 6,323 rushing yards and scored 43 touchdowns, contributing significantly to the team's performance. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010, honoring exceptional achievements in professional football. His impact extended beyond the field, engaging in various community and charitable activities throughout his life.
Continue ReadingClaiborne Pell
American politician and senator
Born
November 22nd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2009 16 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Rhode Island from 1961 to 1997. Contributed to education and foreign affairs, particularly in the areas of federal education funding and international exchanges. Played a significant role in the establishment of the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Advocated for the Pell Grant program, which provides federal funding for low-income college students.
Continue ReadingJuanita Moore
American actress with Oscar nomination
Born
October 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2014 11 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'.
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