Herman Smith-Johannsen

Skier and Olympic competitor in 1924

Herman Smith-Johannsen - Skier and Olympic competitor in 1924
Born

June 15th, 1875
150 years ago

Died

January 5th, 1987
38 years ago — 111 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Canada

Links & References

A Norwegian-Canadian skier participated in the 1924 Winter Olympics in Chamonix, France. Settling in Canada, significant contributions were made to the development of skiing, promoting the sport across North America. Regarded as a pioneer in cross-country skiing, played a crucial role in establishing ski organizations and events, which fostered the growth of skiing as a competitive sport.

Competed in the 1924 Winter Olympics

Promoted cross-country skiing in North America

Helped establish ski organizations

Other People Born on June 15th

Harry Nilsson

American singer-songwriter and musician
Born
June 15th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1994 31 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent figure in the music industry, this artist gained fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Notable works include the hit songs 'Without You' and 'Coconut'. The unique vocal style and innovative musical compositions contributed to a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to soundtracks, further diversifying musical contributions. The artist's work has continued to influence many contemporary musicians.

Continue Reading

Courteney Cox

Actress and producer, Friends star
Born
June 15th, 1964 61 years ago

Cox gained prominence through her role as Monica Geller on the television series Friends, which aired from 1994 to 2004. The show became a cultural phenomenon and remains highly regarded. Additionally, she starred in the horror film series Scream, portraying the character Gale Weathers. Cox also produced and starred in the sitcom Cougar Town, which ran from 2009 to 2015, showcasing her versatility in both acting and production roles.

Continue Reading

Michèle Laroque

French actress, producer, screenwriter
Born
June 15th, 1960 65 years ago

An accomplished actress and producer, prominent in French cinema and television. Starred in the film 'La Grande Vadrouille' and the television series 'Les Cordier, juge et flic'. Also engaged in screenwriting and theatrical productions, contributing to various projects throughout a celebrated career.

Continue Reading

Antoine François

French chemist and entomologist
Born
June 15th, 1755 270 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1809 215 years ago — 54 years old

Contributed to the advancement of chemistry and entomology. Authored several papers on chemical processes and insect taxonomy. Played a significant role in the establishment of chemistry as a distinct scientific discipline in France during the late 18th century. Assisted in the development of the classification system for invertebrates and emphasized the importance of empirical observation in scientific research.

Continue Reading

Cornelis de Witt

Dutch politician and statesman
Born
June 15th, 1623 402 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1672 352 years ago — 49 years old

Served as a prominent politician in the Dutch Republic during the 17th century. Played a significant role in the governance of the Republic, particularly in its foreign policy and political maneuvers. Held the office of Grand Pensionary of Holland, the highest position in the Dutch political system at the time. Advocated for the interests of the Republic against various adversaries, including England in the Second Anglo-Dutch War. His political career ended tragically due to his assassination during a civil unrest.

Continue Reading

Yevgeny Kiselyov

Journalist and television presenter
Born
June 15th, 1956 69 years ago

Born in 1956, engaged in journalism and television, playing a significant role in the media landscape of Russia and Ukraine. Worked as the director of the TV-6 channel in Moscow during the turbulent 1990s. Gained recognition as the anchor of the weekly news program 'Ostankino,' known for its critical stance on government policies. After moving to Ukraine, he became the host of 'SVIT' on the 1+1 channel, where he continued to provide critical insights on political events. His career has included various roles in reporting and editing, contributing to a better understanding of regional issues.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 5th

Giulio Clovio

Dalmatian Renaissance painter and illuminator
Born
1498 527 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1578 447 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent painter and illuminator, contributed significantly to the Italian Renaissance art movement. Worked extensively on illuminated manuscripts, particularly known for the exquisite illustrations in biblical texts and classical works. His style fused elements of Mannerism with Venetian influence, showcasing intricate detail and vibrant colors. Clovio's most famous work includes the 'Book of Hours' created for Emperor Charles V. He spent much of his career in Rome and was associated with notable patrons, which facilitated his artistic development and recognition.

Continue Reading

Harold Urey

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 29th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1981 44 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent American chemist and astronomer, contributions focused on isotopic chemistry and nuclear physics. Developed methods for separating isotopes and played a significant role in the Manhattan Project. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934 for the discovery of deuterium, an isotope of hydrogen. Served as a professor at several universities, including Columbia University and the University of California, Berkeley.

Continue Reading

Bolesław IV the Curly

High Duke of Poland during the 12th century
Born
1120 905 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1173 852 years ago — 53 years old

Held the title of High Duke of Poland from 1146 until 1173. Bolesław IV played a significant role in the political landscape of Poland during the fragmented period of the Piast dynasty. Ascended to power after the death of his brother, he focused on maintaining control over the various Polish duchies and managing relations with neighboring territories. His reign was marked by conflicts with rival factions and attempts to unify the Polish lands amidst external pressures. Bolesław IV was a patron of the Church, reinforcing its influence within his realm. His rule ended with his death in 1173, after which Poland experienced continued fragmentation.

Continue Reading

Calvin Coolidge

30th President of the United States
Born
July 4th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1933 92 years ago — 60 years old

Served as the 30th President of the United States from 1923 to 1929. Initially took office following the death of Warren G. Harding. Implemented economic policies that favored business interests and emphasized limited government involvement in the economy. Advocated for tax reductions and maintained a hands-off approach to economic issues during the Roaring Twenties. Focused on maintaining peace and stability in the post-World War I era. His administration is often associated with the significant economic growth of the 1920s. Elected to a full term in 1924.

Continue Reading

Edward the Confessor

English king, builder of Westminster Abbey
Born
1004 1021 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1066 959 years ago — 62 years old

Ruled as King of England from 1042 until 1066. Oversaw a period of relative peace in England, which allowed for the growth of trade and the economy. Built Westminster Abbey, which became a significant site for English royalty and is still in use today. Actively engaged in the politics of the kingdom, emphasizing ties with Normandy. Died in January 1066, leading to a power struggle that culminated in the Norman Conquest.

Continue Reading

Kenneth Noland

American painter of Color Field artworks
Born
April 10th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old

An influential American painter, this artist emerged as a key figure in the Color Field painting movement. Active primarily during the mid-20th century, he developed a style characterized by flat, vibrant colors and geometric shapes. He experimented with various techniques and mediums, contributing to the evolution of abstract art. Significant solo exhibitions took place, showcasing a range of works that demonstrated a commitment to exploring color dynamics. Major museum exhibitions facilitated wider recognition of the artist's contributions to modern art, leading to critical acclaim and influence in the art community.

Continue Reading