Jan Železný
Czech javelin thrower and coach
A distinguished javelin thrower excelled in athletics during the 1990s. Achieved multiple successes at the World Championships, securing gold medals in 1993, 1995, and 1997. Captured an Olympic gold medal in 2000, representing the Czech Republic. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, sharing expertise with emerging athletes.
Won Olympic gold medal in 2000
Secured three World Championship titles
Set javelin world record at 98.48 meters in 1996
Other People Born on June 16th
Emperor Konoe of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Heian period
Born
June 16th, 1139 886 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1155 870 years ago — 16 years old
Ruled as Emperor of Japan from 1142 until death in 1155. His reign took place during the Heian period, a time characterized by the flourishing of court culture and the establishment of the samurai class. The emperor's court was marked by a strong influence from the Fujiwara clan. His reign was notable for the emergence of various cultural advancements, particularly in literature and the arts. He was also involved in significant political intrigues and struggles for power, which set the stage for future conflicts in the country.
Continue ReadingEdward Davy
Physician and engineer, inventor of the Davy lamp
Born
June 16th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1885 140 years ago — 78 years old
Started a career as a physician before transitioning into engineering. Developed an early safety lamp for mining, significantly improving working conditions in coal mines. Advocated for better health standards in the mining industry. Identified various methods to enhance ventilation in mines, contributing to safer mining practices.
Continue ReadingMatthew Saad Muhammad
Boxer and trainer, light heavyweight champion
Born
June 16th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 59 years old
Achieved prominence as a professional boxer in the light heavyweight division during the 1970s and 1980s. Claimed the WBC Light Heavyweight title in 1979 after a victory against Victor Galindez. Defended the title several times against top contenders. Known for participating in memorable fights, including bouts against Angelo Dundee-trained fighters and a legendary match with Eddie Mustafa Muhammad. Transitioned into a role as a trainer after retirement, contributing to the development of upcoming boxers.
Continue ReadingArthur Arz von Straußenburg
Austrian-Hungarian general in WWI
Born
June 16th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1935 90 years ago — 77 years old
Arthur Arz von Straußenburg served as an Austrian-Hungarian general during World War I. He held significant command positions on the Eastern and Italian fronts. His military career began in the Austro-Hungarian Army prior to the war. Arz played a crucial role in various campaigns, including the Battle of Caporetto, where he was pivotal in the success of the Austro-Hungarian forces against the Italian army. He eventually rose to the position of Chief of the General Staff in 1917, overseeing military operations for the Austro-Hungarian Empire during the final years of the war. After the war, Arz contributed to military policy and legacy discussions in the post-war period.
Continue ReadingNeil Goldschmidt
American politician and former governor
Born
June 16th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 33rd Governor of Oregon from 1987 to 1991. During the governorship, implemented significant education reform and economic development initiatives. Previously held the position of Mayor of Portland and served in the Oregon House of Representatives. After the governorship, worked as a consultant and in other business ventures, including significant roles in real estate and transportation.
Continue ReadingVilmos Zsigmond
Cinematographer of 'The Deer Hunter'
Born
June 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2016 9 years ago — 85 years old
A cinematographer and producer, born in Hungary and later becoming a prominent figure in American cinema. Worked on significant films from the 1970s onwards. Contributed visual storytelling to numerous acclaimed projects and collaborated with notable directors. Influenced the craft of cinematography through innovative techniques and artistic vision. Won an Academy Award for the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' and received multiple nominations throughout his career.
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