Jan Hein Donner
Dutch chess player and journalist
Championship-winning chess player and journalist. Contributed to chess literature and analysis through numerous writings and columns. Competed in multiple international tournaments, achieving prominence in the chess community. Notable for participating in the 1954 Dutch Chess Championship and winning the title. Influenced chess strategy discussions and public perceptions through media involvement.
Won the Dutch Chess Championship in 1954
Authored several influential chess books
Regular contributor to chess magazines and journals
Other People Born on July 6th
Don R. Christensen
Animator and cartoonist, created comic strips
Born
July 6th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 90 years old
An American animator and cartoonist, this individual contributed significantly to the field of animation and illustration. His career included work on animated series and creation of comic strips that captivated audiences. Additionally, this person demonstrated creativity as a writer and inventor in the arts, contributing to various forms of media and traditional animation. Through innovative storytelling and artistic skills, this individual left a notable mark in the animation world.
Continue ReadingWilliam Schallert
American actor and Screen Actors Guild president
Born
July 6th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old
An American actor and prominent figure in the entertainment industry, had a career spanning over six decades. Acted in film, television, and theater, and played notable roles in popular series. Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1979 to 1981, advocating for the rights of actors during a transformative period in the industry. Participated in multiple television projects and films, establishing a recognizable presence on screen.
Continue ReadingDaniel Andrews
Politician, 48th Premier of Victoria
Born
July 6th, 1972 53 years ago
Served as the 48th Premier of Victoria from December 2014 to 2023. Represented the Labor Party in the Victorian Legislative Assembly since 2002. Prior to becoming Premier, held various ministerial positions including Minister for Health and Minister for Community Services. Focused on infrastructure projects, health reforms, and education. Guided the state through significant events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing various public health measures and economic recovery plans.
Continue ReadingBruce Hunter
American swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
July 6th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 79 years old
Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics, winning a silver medal in the 400-meter freestyle. Achieved recognition in competitive swimming during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Made significant contributions to his college swimming team and set several records during his athletic career.
Continue ReadingQueen Blanche I of Navarre
Queen of Navarre, mother of King Charles II
Born
July 6th, 1387 638 years ago
Died
1441 585 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1387, served as the Queen of Navarre and exercised political influence during a tumultuous time in European history. Married Charles III, King of Navarre, and became the mother of Charles II of Navarre. Established alliances through marriage and managed the affairs of the kingdom amid the conflicts of the Hundred Years' War. Took part in regal duties that defined her era, impacting the politics of Navarre and its relationships with neighboring regions. Passed away in 1441.
Continue ReadingMaría Isabella of Spain
Queen of Spain, known for her reign
Born
July 6th, 1789 236 years ago
Died
1846 180 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1789, María Isabella became Queen of Spain in 1833 following the death of her father, King Ferdinand VII. Her reign was marked by political instability and civil conflict, including the Carlist Wars, which were fought over succession issues. María Isabella faced challenges such as economic hardship and social unrest during her rule. After a tumultuous period, she abdicated in 1868 and lived the remainder of her life in exile. She demonstrated resilience throughout her tenure, navigating complex political landscapes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 27th
Bill Willis
American football player, coach, and innovator
Born
October 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2007 18 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American football player and coach, paved the way for future generations in the sport. Played college football at Ohio State University and became an integral part of the team. Transitioned to professional football, playing as a defensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL. Contributed to the team's success during the 1940s and 1950s, earning recognition for skill and leadership. Later served as a coach, influencing players and the game at various levels.
Continue ReadingFernando Lopes-Graça
Portuguese composer and conductor
Born
December 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1994 31 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent figure in Portuguese music, contributed significantly to the national music scene. Composed numerous orchestral works, choral pieces, and songs drawing from Portuguese folk traditions. Served as a conductor and championed the works of other composers. Engaged in music education and the dissemination of cultural heritage through music. Established institutions that supported Portuguese music education and performance.
Continue ReadingGary Speed
Welsh footballer and manager
Born
September 8th, 1969 56 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2011 14 years ago — 42 years old
Played as a midfielder for several clubs, including Leeds United, Everton, and Newcastle United. Managed the national team of Wales and achieved notable success during his tenure. Played for the Welsh national team, earning over 80 caps and participating in major international competitions.
Continue ReadingMaurice Strong
Canadian businessman and diplomat
Born
April 29th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent businessman and diplomat, contributed significantly to global environmental policy and sustainable development. Played a pivotal role in establishing the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in 1972. Served as Secretary-General of the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, which introduced key global environmental agreements. Engaged in various ventures promoting corporate responsibility toward environmental sustainability.
Continue ReadingManuel Espinosa Batista
Colombian pharmacist and politician
Born
September 12th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1919 106 years ago — 62 years old
Contributed to the Colombian pharmacy profession and engaged in politics. Served as a prominent figure in the Colombian Senate. Advocated for public health measures and reforms within the pharmaceutical sector, influencing policies aimed at improving healthcare access. His work helped establish a foundation for modern pharmaceutical practices in Colombia.
Continue ReadingIrvin Kershner
Film director of The Empire Strikes Back
Born
April 29th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2010 15 years ago — 87 years old
A film director, producer, and actor, recognized for directing the iconic film The Empire Strikes Back, the second installment of the original Star Wars trilogy. Kershner's work in the film industry extended beyond directing as he also contributed to various projects as a producer and screenwriter. His career spanned several decades, during which he developed a reputation for his innovative storytelling and unique directorial style. Additionally, Kershner directed films such as Never Say Never Again, a James Bond film, and the 1983 sci-fi film Robocop.
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