J. J. Barea
Basketball player, 2011 NBA champion.
Professional basketball player played primarily as a point guard. Barea had a successful career in the NBA, most notably with the Dallas Mavericks. Achieved significant recognition during the 2010-2011 season, contributing to the Mavericks' first NBA championship title. Played a crucial role in the playoffs, providing strong performances that helped secure victory against the Miami Heat. Also represented Puerto Rico in international competitions, showcasing talent on a global stage.
Won NBA Championship with Dallas Mavericks in 2011
Competed in international basketball for Puerto Rico
Other People Born on June 26th
Paul Castellano
American mafia boss, Gambino family leader
Born
June 26th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1985 40 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1915, this individual rose to prominence within the Gambino crime family, becoming its boss in the 1970s. Castellano was involved in various illegal activities, including extortion, racketeering, and drug trafficking. His leadership style marked a shift in the organization, emphasizing business operations over traditional gangster tactics. In December 1985, he was assassinated in a power struggle that highlighted the violent rivalries within the Mafia. Castellano's life and death illustrated the complexities of mob leadership during a turbulent era for organized crime in America.
Continue ReadingPhilip Doddridge
English hymn-writer and educator
Born
June 26th, 1702 323 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1751 274 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent hymn-writer and educator in England, contributed significantly to 18th-century evangelicalism. Established a dissenting academy in Northampton, which became influential in training Nonconformist ministers. Authored several influential works, including 'The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul' and more than 400 hymns, many of which remain in use today. Advocacy for religious education had a lasting impact on Nonconformist thought.
Continue ReadingEdward Holyoke
American pastor and academic leader
Born
June 26th, 1689 336 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1769 256 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to early American education as a pastor and educator. Served as the President of Harvard College from 1737 to 1769. Held a prominent position in the academic community during the early 18th century, overseeing a notable period of institutional growth and development. Engaged in various educational reforms and maintained a focus on classical studies. Played a vital role in shaping the curriculum and academic policies of the college, influencing generations of students. Notable for promoting both religious and scholarly pursuits.
Continue ReadingJason Kendall
Baseball catcher, All-Star Game participant
Born
June 26th, 1974 51 years ago
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball for teams including the Pittsburgh Pirates, Oakland Athletics, and Chicago Cubs. Debuted in 1996 and played until 2010. Achieved two All-Star selections during his career. Noted for a strong defensive skill set and the ability to effectively handle pitchers. Recorded over 2,400 hits and was respected for his approach to the game throughout his career.
Continue ReadingPatty Smyth
Singer-songwriter with hits in the 80s
Born
June 26th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in 1957, a notable American singer-songwriter and musician rose to prominence in the 1980s. Achieved chart success with solo hits and as the lead vocalist for the band Scandal. The single "The Warrior" reached the top of the charts and became a defining anthem of the decade. Transitioned to a successful solo career, recording several albums and contributing to various charitable projects. Collaborated with other well-known artists and performed at various music festivals.
Continue ReadingCharles Messier
French astronomer specializing in comet cataloging
Born
June 26th, 1730 295 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1817 208 years ago — 86 years old
An astronomer and academic focused on comet studies. Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy in the 18th century. Created the Messier catalog, which lists over 100 astronomical objects. This catalog helped distinguish between comets and fixed celestial bodies. Messier's work laid the foundation for modern astronomical observations and discoveries.
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