Israel Putnam
American Revolutionary War general
Served as a general in the American Revolutionary War. Participated in the Battle of Bunker Hill, where decisive leadership was exhibited. Spent early life as a farmer and gained experience in military affairs during the French and Indian War. His prominence grew as a military commander for the Continental Army, contributing to various campaigns.
Led American forces at the Battle of Bunker Hill
Fought in the French and Indian War
Other People Born on January 7th
Zora Neale Hurston
American novelist and folklorist
Born
January 7th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1960 65 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure of the Harlem Renaissance, this novelist and folklorist contributed significantly to American literature through the exploration of African American culture. The work represents the experiences and challenges faced by Black individuals in early 20th century America. Writings often incorporated rich dialects and vivid depictions of life in the South. The acclaimed novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God, remains a central work, highlighting themes of love and self-discovery.
Continue ReadingVasily Alekseyev
Weightlifter and world champion coach
Born
January 7th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2011 14 years ago — 69 years old
Competed primarily in the super heavyweight category for the Soviet Union. Achieved significant success in the 1970s, setting numerous world records in weightlifting competitions. Claimed gold medals at the World Championships and the Olympic Games. Transitioned to coaching, contributing to the development of future champions in the sport. Continued to influence weightlifting through training methodologies and technique refinement.
Continue ReadingHenry II
Count of Nassau-Siegen
Born
January 7th, 1414 611 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1177 848 years ago — -237 years old
Became Count of Nassau-Siegen in the early 15th century. Played a significant role in the ongoing conflicts of the time, particularly during the Hundred Years' War. Engaged in military campaigns to defend and expand territorial claims in the region. Also served as a prominent figure in the political landscape of the Low Countries.
Continue ReadingRory Storm
English singer-songwriter and bandleader
Born
January 7th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 34 years old
Began a music career in the late 1950s, fronting the band Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. Achieved local popularity in Liverpool, often performing at venues such as the Cavern Club. The band was known for its energetic performances and influential style, which contributed to the vibrant music scene of the time. The group gained national attention as a supporting act for The Beatles on their early tours. Despite the lack of commercial success with record releases, the band became a notable part of the Merseybeat movement. Continued to be involved in music until the late 1960s.
Continue ReadingKotaro Suzumura
Economist and academic specializing in welfare.
Born
January 7th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1944, this individual pursued a career in economics, focusing on welfare economics and social choices. The academic served as a professor at various universities, contributing to economic theory and policy. The work emphasized the importance of fair distribution and social welfare mechanisms. The economist also contributed to numerous publications that analyzed social choice theory.
Continue ReadingMike McGear
British rock photographer and artist
Born
January 7th, 1944 81 years ago
A British performing artist and rock photographer, this individual gained prominence as a member of the music group The Scaffold, which achieved success in the 1960s. The group's best-known single, 'Lily the Pink,' topped the UK Singles Chart in 1968. Alongside music, this individual pursued a career in photography, capturing iconic images of various musicians and bands during the height of the British rock scene. His work contributed to the visual culture surrounding rock music during that era, establishing a noteworthy reputation within the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 29th
Moe Berg
Baseball player and World War II spy
Born
March 2nd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1972 53 years ago — 70 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1923 to 1939, representing teams such as the Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, and the Washington Senators. Apart from a baseball career, served as a spy for the Office of Strategic Services during World War II. Conducted intelligence-gathering missions in Europe, including assessing the German atomic bomb project. After the war, contributed to post-war analysis and educational efforts.
Continue ReadingChristopher I of Denmark
King of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway
Born
1219 806 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1259 766 years ago — 40 years old
Ruled as the King of Denmark from 1252 until death in 1259, also held titles of King of Sweden and King of Norway during a personal union. His reign witnessed efforts to strengthen the monarchy and consolidate power across the Scandinavian realms. Conflicts with the nobility and external threats characterized the period.
Continue ReadingKatarína Kolníková
Slovak actress; starred in 'Kozie mlieko'
Born
April 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2006 19 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1921 in Slovakia, an actress gained prominence in theater and film. Worked in various Slovak performances, showcasing talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. Achieved recognition for contributions to the Slovak film industry, particularly through performances in classic productions.
Continue ReadingMily Balakirev
Russian composer and pianist, founder of the Mighty Handful
Born
January 2nd, 1837 188 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1910 115 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in 19th-century Russian music, Balakirev dedicated efforts to promoting Russian classical music. He founded a collective of composers known as 'The Mighty Handful,' which aimed to create a distinctly Russian sound in classical music. As a pianist, he showcased his talents through performances and compositions that blended romanticism with folk elements. Balakirev's influential works include the symphonic poem 'Tamara' and the piano pieces 'Islamey' and 'Bard's Song.' His teachings and mentorship inspired future generations of Russian composers.
Continue ReadingBarry Goldwater
American politician and author
Born
January 2nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1998 27 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent U.S. politician and businessman, contributed significantly to the conservative movement in America. Served as a U.S. Senator from Arizona from 1953 to 1965 and as the Republican Party's nominee for President in 1964. His political career was marked by a strong emphasis on individual liberty, limited government, and a staunch anti-communist stance. Authored several books, including 'The Conscience of a Conservative', which became influential in the development of modern conservative thought. Goldwater's legacy includes a lasting impact on the Republican Party's direction in the subsequent decades.
Continue ReadingDoc Watson
American bluegrass musician and songwriter
Born
March 3rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1923, this American musician gained recognition for contributions to the bluegrass and folk music genres. Blind from a young age, proficiency on guitar and flatpicking technique showcased remarkable talent. Released albums such as 'Doc Watson' and 'Will the Circle Be Unbroken', collaborating with a range of artists including the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Emphasized traditional and contemporary pieces, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.
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