Henry Lawson
Australian poet and author of Balladry
A significant figure in Australian literature, contributed extensively through poetry and short stories. Focused on themes of Australian identity, the everyday life of Australians, and the struggles faced by rural communities. Published works include 'The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke' and 'While the Billy Boils'. His writing reflected the experiences and spirit of the Australian people during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Authored 'The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke'
Wrote 'While the Billy Boils'
Pioneered Australian literary realism
Other People Born on June 17th
Beryl Reid
English actress and television star
Born
June 17th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1996 29 years ago — 77 years old
An accomplished actress in theater, film, and television, she gained prominence for her work in British comedy. Reid starred in the sitcoms 'Hugh and I' and 'The Larkins.' Her performance in 'The Killing of Sister George' earned acclaim, showcasing her talent in portraying complex characters. Reid's career spanned several decades, during which she appeared in numerous stage productions and television shows, becoming a recognizable face on British screens.
Continue ReadingJames Weldon Johnson
Author and civil rights activist
Born
June 17th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1938 87 years ago — 67 years old
An author, journalist, and civil rights activist, this individual contributed significantly to the Harlem Renaissance. Works included the organizing of the NAACP and the composition of the anthem 'Lift Every Voice and Sing.' Additionally, served as the first African American executive secretary of the NAACP from 1920 to 1930, advocating for civil rights during a pivotal time in American history. Other literary contributions included novels and poetry, which highlighted the African American experience.
Continue ReadingJon Leibowitz
American lawyer and politician
Born
June 17th, 1958 67 years ago
Served as a commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission from 2009 to 2013. Played a significant role in consumer protection and antitrust enforcement during tenure. Led initiatives focusing on online privacy and transparency in advertising. Prior to FTC, practiced law and worked as a legislative aide.
Continue ReadingBobby 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 ReadingSammy Fain
American pianist and composer of songs
Born
June 17th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1989 36 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent American pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the music industry from the 1920s to the 1980s. Composed numerous popular songs, many of which became standards in the American musical repertoire. Collaborated with notable lyricists, creating songs for Broadway musicals and Hollywood films. Won two Academy Awards for Best Original Song, cementing a legacy in film music. Fain's compositions are characterized by memorable melodies and intricate harmonies, influencing generations of musicians.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on September 2nd
Wilford Woodruff
Religious leader, 4th President of LDS Church
Born
March 1st, 1807 219 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1898 127 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the fourth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1889 until death in 1898. Played a crucial role in leading the church during a period of significant change and challenge, including the transition away from polygamy. Oversaw the establishment of the church's first temple in Salt Lake City and promoted the gathering of Latter-day Saints in Utah. Compiled and published many church records, including the often-used Standard Works, which provided guidance and structure to the church's teachings.
Continue ReadingBill Melendez
Voice actor and animator for Peanuts
Born
November 15th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2008 17 years ago — 91 years old
A Mexican-American voice actor, animator, director, and producer, contributed greatly to the Peanuts franchise. Worked as a director for numerous animated specials and features based on Charles M. Schulz's comic strip. Voiced the character of Snoopy in many productions and played key roles in bringing the beloved characters to life through animation. Established an animation studio that focused on producing high-quality animated projects. Collaborated with various networks and produced seasonal specials, achieving significant acclaim within the animation community.
Continue ReadingMáel Sechnaill mac Domnaill
King of Mide and High King of Ireland
Died
September 2nd, 1022 1003 years ago — None years old
Ruled as King of Mide and later became High King of Ireland. Maintained power during a period of significant conflict among Irish kingdoms. Engaged in various battles against rival factions to assert dominance over Ireland. His reign saw both military and political activities aimed at unifying different regions under his rule. Involved in the development of early Irish governance structures and interactions with Viking settlers and other external forces.
Continue ReadingDewey Redman
Saxophonist known for jazz improvisation
Born
May 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2006 19 years ago — 75 years old
An influential American saxophonist, associated with the free jazz movement, contributed to the evolution of jazz through improvisational techniques and collaborations. Worked extensively with notable musicians, including his tenure with the great Ornette Coleman. Participated in various ensembles, showcasing multifaceted musicianship across bebop, free jazz, and various innovative styles throughout the decades. Released several albums, and his work remains significant in the exploration of jazz aesthetics.
Continue ReadingMason Phelps
American golfer and tournament champion
Born
December 7th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1945 80 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1885, a prominent American golfer achieved significant success in the early 20th century. Competed in various championships and was known for participation in the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. Contributed to the evolving landscape of professional golf during this period, engaging in notable match play events and tournaments that helped elevate the sport's profile. Continued to play and promote golf throughout his life, influencing younger generations of golfers.
Continue ReadingNorman Gordon
South African cricketer, Test player
Born
August 6th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 103 years old
A cricketer played for the South African national team from 1938 to 1955. His career included participation in the inaugural Test series against England post-World War II. Notable for his role as a fast bowler, achieved remarkable success in domestic cricket prior to international appearances. Contributed significantly to the game during a challenging era in South African sports history.
Continue Reading