James Weldon Johnson
Author and civil rights activist
Born
Died
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
United States
Links & References
An author, journalist, and civil rights activist, this individual contributed significantly to the Harlem Renaissance. Works included the organizing of the NAACP and the composition of the anthem 'Lift Every Voice and Sing.' Additionally, served as the first African American executive secretary of the NAACP from 1920 to 1930, advocating for civil rights during a pivotal time in American history. Other literary contributions included novels and poetry, which highlighted the African American experience.
Authored 'Lift Every Voice and Sing'
Served as executive secretary of the NAACP
Published 'The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man'
Other People Born on June 17th
Si Tianfeng
Chinese race walker and Olympic athlete
Born
June 17th, 1984 41 years ago
Competitions included 20 km race walking events. Achievements included winning a gold medal at the 2005 World Championships in Helsinki. Competed in the 2012 London Olympics. Participated in multiple national and international races, setting both personal records and contributing to the overall performance of China's race walking team.
Continue ReadingEben Sumner Draper
American politician, 44th Massachusetts Governor
Born
June 17th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1914 112 years ago — 56 years old
Served as the 44th Governor of Massachusetts from 1909 to 1910. Held office during a period of significant change in the state. Advocated for progressive policies and reforms. Engaged in various business ventures prior to entering politics, significantly impacting local economies. Contributed to educational initiatives and infrastructure development during tenure.
Continue ReadingElena Rybakina
Professional tennis player, Wimbledon champion
Born
June 17th, 1999 26 years ago
Born in 1999, this Kazakhstani tennis player gained prominence on the WTA Tour. In 2022, secured victory at Wimbledon, marking a significant milestone in career. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 12 in January 2023. Continued to showcase talent in various Grand Slam tournaments and other international competitions.
Continue ReadingSimone Battle
Singer and actress from 'The X Factor'
Born
June 17th, 1989 36 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 25 years old
Initially gained recognition as a contestant on 'The X Factor' USA in 2011, where her powerful vocals and stage presence garnered attention. Later became a member of the girl group G.R.L., which produced hits and performed internationally. Additionally, appeared in the television series 'Famous in Love', where her acting skills were showcased alongside a young ensemble cast. Established a reputation for versatility in both music and acting before untimely passing.
Continue ReadingMichael Mathieu
Bahamian sprinter and Olympic athlete
Born
June 17th, 1984 41 years ago
A distinguished sprinter from the Bahamas, achieved notable success in the 400 meters. Competed in multiple international competitions, including the World Championships and the Olympics. Contributed to the Bahamian relay teams, demonstrating consistent performance over several years. Attended the 2008 Beijing Olympics, becoming part of the Bahamian contingent. Showcased athletic prowess at collegiate level, representing the University of Georgia. Excelled in both individual and team events, marking a significant presence in the sprinting community.
Continue ReadingAmari Cooper
American football wide receiver, Pro Bowler
Born
June 17th, 1994 31 years ago
A wide receiver excelled in the National Football League (NFL), starting a career with the Oakland Raiders after being selected fourth overall in the 2015 NFL Draft. Played for the Dallas Cowboys after a mid-season trade in 2018. Accumulated multiple Pro Bowl selections and set franchise records for receptions and receiving yards. Contributed significantly to team playoff appearances and was a key player in pivotal games.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 26th
Henrik Otto Donner
Finnish trumpet player and composer
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent trumpet player and composer, made significant contributions to the Finnish music scene. Worked extensively in the fields of jazz and classical music. Involved with various orchestras and ensembles, showcasing a blend of different musical styles. Contributed to the education of young musicians through teaching and mentorship. Authored numerous compositions and arrangements, leaving a lasting legacy in Finnish music.
Continue ReadingBeth Chapman
Reality television star on Dog the Bounty Hunter
Born
October 29th, 1967 58 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2019 6 years ago — 51 years old
A reality television star, achieved recognition for appearances in the series 'Dog the Bounty Hunter.' The show followed the life of a bounty hunter and his family, highlighting various aspects of their work. The series aired from 2004 to 2012, showcasing the challenges and experiences involved in bounty hunting. Operated a successful bail bonding business alongside her husband. Also participated in spin-off shows and various guest appearances in reality television.
Continue ReadingFord Madox Ford
English novelist and critic
Born
December 17th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1939 86 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1873, a significant figure in English literature, distinguished for contributions to the modernist movement. Authored several novels, including 'The Good Soldier,' a complex narrative examining themes of love and betrayal. Worked as a critic and editor, influencing literary circles through the publication of 'The English Review' and 'The Transatlantic Review.' Fostered the careers of other writers, showcasing emerging talent in various literary forms.
Continue ReadingAlgirdas Brazauskas
Lithuanian politician, 2nd President
Born
September 22nd, 1932 93 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2010 15 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the second President of Lithuania from 1993 to 1998. Held the position of Prime Minister earlier before the presidency from 1992 to 1993. Instrumental in Lithuania's transition to independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Played a significant role in establishing new political foundations and economic reforms in post-Soviet Lithuania.
Continue ReadingClifford Brown
Trumpet player and jazz composer
Born
October 30th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1956 69 years ago — 25 years old
A prominent jazz trumpet player and composer, contributed significantly to the hard bop style in jazz. Brown's career was marked by innovative improvisation and lyricism. Collaborated with many notable jazz musicians, including Max Roach. His recordings, particularly during the 1950s, showcased his virtuosic technique and emotive playing. Tragically, a car accident in 1956 ended a promising career at the age of 25. His legacy endures through his recordings and influence on future jazz trumpeters.
Continue ReadingTaiki Matsuno
Voice actor in anime and games
Born
1967 59 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2024 1 years ago — 57 years old
Engaged in voice acting primarily in anime and video games. Worked on various notable projects, contributing to characters that resonated with audiences. Gained recognition for performances in roles that highlighted versatility and depth. Made lasting contributions to the industry through significant collaborations and memorable character portrayals.
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