Henry Ossawa Tanner
Painter of 'The Banjo Lesson'
An American-French painter and illustrator, Tanner specialized in genre scenes and biblical subjects. Born in 1859, Tanner faced racial discrimination while pursuing artistic education in the United States. He studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts under Thomas Eakins. In 1891, Tanner became the first African American painter to achieve significant recognition in Europe. His work includes notable pieces such as 'The Banjo Lesson,' which exemplifies his focus on African American life. He later moved to France, where he continued to develop his style, drawing from experiences in both America and Europe. Tanner's contributions to the art world include a focus on spirituality and dignity in the depiction of Black subjects.
Painted 'The Banjo Lesson'
First African American painter to gain recognition in Europe
Other People Born on June 21st
Viktor Tsoi
Russian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
June 21st, 1962 63 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1990 35 years ago — 28 years old
Emerging from Leningrad, a significant figure in the Soviet rock scene, contributed to the genre through a blend of rock and new wave. Fronted the band Kino, which gained widespread popularity during the late 1980s. The band's music captured the sentiments of a generation seeking change and freedom amidst a restrictive political climate. Tsoi's songwriting and performance style resonated with youth, leading to an enduring legacy in Russian music. His song 'Gruppa Krovi' became emblematic of the era. Tsoi's life was tragically cut short in 1990 after a car accident, but his influence continued to shape Russian rock music posthumously.
Continue ReadingO.S. Enoch Poor
American Revolutionary War general
Born
June 21st, 1736 289 years ago
Died
1780 245 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1736, served as a general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Participated in key battles including the Battle of Saratoga, which was a significant turning point in the war. Commanded the 2nd New Hampshire Regiment, contributing to various military strategies and engagements that helped to shape the outcome of the conflict. His military leadership and efforts were recognized during and after the war, solidifying a legacy within American military history.
Continue ReadingCharles Momsen
American admiral, inventor of the Momsen Lung
Born
June 21st, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 71 years old
An American admiral made significant contributions to naval safety and submarine rescue. Developed the Momsen Lung, a device that facilitated underwater escape. Served as a commander of submarines during World War II and played a role in various submarine operations. Later held important positions in the U.S. Navy's Bureau of Ships and contributed to advancements in submarine technology.
Continue ReadingGretchen Carlson
TV journalist and Miss America 1989
Born
June 21st, 1966 59 years ago
Born in 1966, a television journalist and former model gained prominence in the media industry. Achieved the title of Miss America in 1989, which propelled a career in broadcast journalism. Worked for major networks, including Fox News, where hosted various programs. Reported on significant national events and was part of major discussions surrounding workplace issues, particularly focusing on harassment in the media industry.
Continue ReadingSamuel Griffith
Politician, 9th Premier of Queensland
Born
June 21st, 1845 180 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1920 105 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Wales and later moving to Australia, served as the 9th Premier of Queensland from 1893 to 1898. Played a significant role in the drafting of the Australian Constitution, contributing to the establishment of the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. As a member of the Queensland Legislative Assembly, pushed for various reforms including land and electoral laws. Additionally, held the position of Chief Justice of Queensland, actively influencing the judicial landscape of the state.
Continue ReadingBenazir Bhutto
Pakistani politician, Prime Minister
Born
June 21st, 1953 72 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2007 17 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the 11th Prime Minister of Pakistan from 1988 to 1990 and again from 1993 to 1996. Bhutto was the first woman to head a democratic government in a majority Muslim nation. She led the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and held significant influence in the country's political landscape. Bhutto faced numerous challenges including political opposition and corruption allegations. She was exiled in the late 1990s and later returned to Pakistan to contest in the 2008 elections, which she was unable to participate in due to her assassination in December 2007.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 25th
Yevgenia Ginzburg
Russian author and Gulag survivor
Born
December 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1977 48 years ago — 72 years old
An author renowned for writings about the Soviet regime, particularly the experiences in the Gulag system. The memoir "Journey into the Whirlwind" details personal experiences of arrest, imprisonment, and life in the labor camps. Ginzburg’s literary works reflect on totalitarianism and the importance of personal freedom. She continued to write following her release, contributing to Soviet literature and illuminating the struggles faced by those in the Soviet Union.
Continue ReadingLyubov Popova
Russian painter and academic Cubist
Born
April 24th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1924 101 years ago — 35 years old
An influential Russian painter and academic contributed to the development of the Russian avant-garde movement. Active in the early 20th century, engaged with various art styles, particularly Cubism and Suprematism. Participated in exhibitions including the iconic 1915 'Donkey's Tail' exhibition. Held teaching positions at the Vkhutemas institute, focusing on modern art education. Created significant works that emphasized geometry, color, and abstraction, influencing future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingPope Alexander IV
Pope with significant papal contributions
Born
1185 840 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1261 764 years ago — 76 years old
Served as Pope from 1254 until death in 1261. Focused on reaffirming papal authority and guiding the Catholic Church during a tumultuous period marked by political strife. Supported the expansion of the Franciscan and Dominican orders, promoting their missionary activities. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts to mediate conflicts within Europe and the Holy Land. Oversaw the canonization of several saints, emphasizing the Church's role in spiritual matters during a time of unrest.
Continue ReadingIdris of Libya
Libyan King and political leader
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1983 42 years ago — 94 years old
Ruled Libya as king from 1951 until 1969, overseeing the country's transition to independence from Italian colonial rule. Focused on national development and modernization, promoting education and infrastructure projects. Dealt with opposition from political factions, which ultimately led to the overthrow by a military coup in 1969. Spent the remaining years in exile until death in 1983.
Continue ReadingTerry Jenner
Cricketer and cricket coach
Born
September 8th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2011 14 years ago — 66 years old
Australian cricketer born in 1944, achieved recognition as a leg-spin bowler. Represented the Australian national team in the 1970s, making a mark during the cricketing era. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from professional play, imparting skills and knowledge to young cricketers, particularly in Australia. Contributed significantly to the development of spin bowling techniques and was involved with various state teams.
Continue ReadingGeorge Floyd
Victim of police brutality incident
Born
October 14th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2020 5 years ago — 46 years old
A Minneapolis resident became widely recognized following an incident involving police brutality on May 25, 2020. The fatal encounter with law enforcement sparked global protests against systemic racism and police violence. Activists emphasized the need for police reform and increased awareness of racial injustice. The incident prompted conversations around the Black Lives Matter movement and led to significant social and political discourse.
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