James H. Billington

Librarian of Congress and academic leader

James H. Billington - Librarian of Congress and academic leader
Born

June 1st, 1929
96 years ago

Died

November 20th, 2018
6 years ago — 89 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as the Thirteenth Librarian of Congress from 1987 to 2015. Played a significant role in modernizing the Library of Congress and advocating for digital access to American history and culture. Oversaw the establishment of various digital initiatives and projects, including the American Memory project, which made historical documents available online. Contributed extensively to academic discourse on American literature and culture through numerous publications.

Served as Librarian of Congress for 28 years

Initiated the American Memory project

Published works on American literature

Other People Born on June 1st

Ronnie Dunn

Country music singer-songwriter
Born
June 1st, 1953 72 years ago

A prominent figure in country music, this individual gained fame as one half of the duo Brooks & Dunn. The duo released numerous albums, combining traditional country sounds with rock influences. They have produced multiple chart-topping singles, contributing significantly to the popularity of the genre. Following the disbandment of Brooks & Dunn, this artist pursued a solo career, achieving success with a collection of albums showcasing a rich vocal style. Beyond music, this person has participated in various charitable activities, supporting causes related to music education and veterans.

Continue Reading

Justine Henin

Tennis player with Grand Slam titles
Born
June 1st, 1982 43 years ago

A prominent tennis player, recognized for a powerful one-handed backhand and aggressive playing style. Achieved success on both hard and clay surfaces, with significant victories throughout career. Captured seven Grand Slam singles titles, including the French Open four times. Ranked world No. 1 for a total of 117 weeks. Retired in 2008 but returned briefly in 2010 before retiring for good. Played a key role in Belgium's success in the Fed Cup, contributing to winning the championship in 2001 and reaching the finals in 2006.

Continue Reading

Anatoly Albul

Soviet and Russian wrestler, Olympic medalist
Born
June 1st, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 77 years old

Competed in wrestling and achieved significant success at both national and international levels. Secured a bronze medal in the Greco-Roman wrestling category at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Dominated in the Soviet Wrestling Championships, showcasing exceptional skill and technique throughout his career. Contributed to the sport's development in Russia post-career, mentoring younger athletes and participating in wrestling organizations.

Continue Reading

Enno I

Count of East Frisia, German noble
Born
June 1st, 1460 565 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1491 534 years ago — 30 years old

Held the title of Count of East Frisia during the late 15th century. Played a crucial role in regional politics, particularly in the context of East Frisian nobility. Managed to regain control over the territory after various conflicts, establishing a notable lineage that influenced the region's governance. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power and maintain the interests of East Frisia amidst external pressures. Left a legacy through the succession of his descendants, who continued to play significant roles in the area's political landscape.

Continue Reading

Walter Horak

Austrian footballer and national team member
Born
June 1st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1931, this football player played primarily as a midfielder. He began his professional career with the club Grazer AK and later joined SK Rapid Wien, contributing significantly to their success in domestic competitions. His performance at the club level earned a place on the Austrian national team, where he competed in international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup.

Continue Reading

Gerald Scarfe

Illustrator and animator for Pink Floyd
Born
June 1st, 1936 89 years ago

An illustrator and animator originated in England, contributed significantly to visual arts through work with the rock band Pink Floyd. Gained recognition for artistry in the album covers for 'The Wall' and 'Animals.' Provided animation for the film 'Pink Floyd – The Wall,' which showcased a combination of animation and rock music. Developed a unique style characterized by bold lines and surreal imagery. Also worked for The Sunday Times and contributed numerous illustrations to other publications, establishing a notable career in editorial art.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 20th

Robie Macauley

American editor and novelist
Born
May 31st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1995 29 years ago — 76 years old

An American editor, novelist, and critic, contributed significantly to literature through editing and writing. Held various editorial positions, influencing many writers. Published several novels that explored themes of identity and dislocation. Also critiqued literary works, providing insights that enriched literary discourse.

Continue Reading

Kakhi Asatiani

Georgian footballer, 1995 FIFA U-20 World Cup
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2002 22 years ago — 55 years old

A professional footballer from Georgia, actively participated in various clubs throughout a career that spanned several years. Represented the national team and showcased skills in international competitions. Played as a defender, contributing significantly to team strategies and performances. Competed in the 1995 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where the team made a notable appearance. After retirement, remained involved in football, influencing the sport at various levels until death in 2002.

Continue Reading

Leo Tolstoy

Russian author of War and Peace
Born
September 9th, 1828 196 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1910 114 years ago — 82 years old

One of the most prominent authors in world literature, contributions include novels, plays, and essays. War and Peace, published in 1869, illustrated the impact of the Napoleonic Wars on Russian society and is widely regarded as a literary masterpiece. Another major work, Anna Karenina, explores themes of love and morality. Tolstoy's later life involved a strong focus on philosophy and spirituality, culminating in an embrace of nonviolent resistance and a critique of established institutions.

Continue Reading

Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart

18th Duchess of Alba and aristocrat
Born
March 28th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2014 10 years ago — 88 years old

Born into a prominent Spanish noble family, held the title of 18th Duchess of Alba from 1955 until death. Became a significant figure in Spanish high society and inherited a vast collection of art and historical properties. Gained attention for her numerous titles and was regarded as one of the last grandees of Spain, representing a unique tradition of Spanish nobility. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, particularly related to the arts and culture in Spain.

Continue Reading

Chris Whitley

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 31st, 1960 64 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2005 19 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent figure in the American music scene, this singer-songwriter and guitarist gained recognition for a unique blend of blues, rock, and a hint of country. Released several albums including 'Living with the Law', which showcased a distinctive sound characterized by slide guitar and poignant lyrics. Collaborated with various artists and explored different musical styles throughout his career, earning a dedicated following. Influenced by traditional American music forms, he often incorporated themes of life experiences and personal struggles into his work.

Continue Reading

Edwin Hall

Physicist and Hall effect discoverer
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1938 86 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of physics and electricity. Developed the Hall effect, which describes the behavior of electric charges in a conductor subjected to a magnetic field. This phenomenon has important applications in solid-state physics and engineering. Served as a professor at Harvard University and published extensively on the properties of magnetic fields and electric currents. Made notable contributions to understanding the effects of magnetic fields on semiconductors.

Continue Reading