Jean-Marie Le Pen
French politician and far-right leader
Served as a French politician and founded the National Front, a far-right political party. Held a position in the French National Assembly for several terms and was a prominent figure in French politics for decades. Advocated for strict immigration policies and was known for controversial statements regarding race and nationality. Ran for presidency multiple times, securing a significant portion of the vote in the 2002 election, reaching the second round against Jacques Chirac.
Founded the National Front party in 1972
Reached the second round of the 2002 presidential election
Served multiple terms in the French National Assembly
Other People Born on June 20th
Jacob Hübner
Entomologist and author of Lepidoptera works
Born
June 20th, 1761 264 years ago
Died
1826 199 years ago — 65 years old
Contributions to entomology included extensive research on Lepidoptera, the order of insects that includes butterflies and moths. Authored numerous works that documented various species, enhancing the understanding of insect taxonomy and classification. Established a systematic approach to the study of butterflies, which served as a reference for future entomologists. His published works significantly advanced the field of entomological science during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Continue ReadingWilfrid Pelletier
Pianist, composer, and conductor
Born
June 20th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1982 43 years ago — 85 years old
Acclaimed as a pivotal figure in Canadian classical music. Contributed significantly as a pianist, composer, and conductor, showcasing expertise in various performances and orchestrations. Served as the music director for the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, elevating the orchestra's prominence in the music scene. Engaged in promoting Canadian music and artists through various initiatives, including collaborations with notable musicians and composers.
Continue ReadingAndrzej Gawroński
Polish linguist and academic
Born
June 20th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1927 98 years ago — 42 years old
Specialized in linguistics and contributed to various linguistic studies. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing the field of Polish linguistics. Authored numerous publications that explored language structure and syntax, becoming a key figure in academic discussions during the early and mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingRobert Rozhdestvensky
Russian poet and author of 'The Night'
Born
June 20th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1932, a notable Russian poet and author contributed significantly to contemporary Russian literature. Rozhdestvensky began his literary career in the early 1950s, with his works often reflecting the social issues and political climate of the Soviet era. His poetry is characterized by its lyrical style and vivid imagery. Rozhdestvensky published several collections, combining personal themes with broader societal commentary. Outside of poetry, he also wrote scripts for films and collaborated with composers, enhancing the cultural landscape of Soviet art. He gained recognition and acclaim during his lifetime, becoming an influential figure in Soviet literary circles.
Continue ReadingBob King
High jumper and obstetrician
Born
June 20th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1906, this individual excelled as a high jumper and pursued a successful career in obstetrics. Participated in the 1932 Summer Olympics, representing the United States in athletics. After retirement from competitive sports, transitioned into medicine, contributing to the field of obstetrics.
Continue ReadingIlan Ramon
Israeli astronaut and space shuttle pilot
Born
June 20th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 49 years old
An Israeli colonel and fighter pilot, entered NASA's astronaut program in 1998. Flew on the STS-107 mission aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003. This mission included scientific experiments and educational outreach. Tragically, Columbia disintegrated during re-entry on February 1, 2003, resulting in the loss of all seven crew members.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 7th
Catherine of Aragon
Queen consort of England
Born
December 16th, 1485 540 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1536 489 years ago — 50 years old
Born as a Spanish princess, assumed the role of queen consort of England after marrying Henry VIII. The marriage lasted for over two decades, which included the birth of one surviving daughter, Mary I. Catherine's refusal to annul the marriage led to a significant religious and political shift in England, ultimately resulting in the English Reformation. Her steadfastness in the face of her husband's actions contributed to her historic legacy.
Continue ReadingBill Foster
Basketball coach and player with Duke
Born
August 19th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 86 years old
Played college basketball at Duke University, contributing to the team's success during the early 1960s. Transitioned into coaching, leading teams at both the collegiate and professional levels. Served as head coach at notable institutions including the University of South Carolina and the University of Chicago. Achieved recognition for developing talent and promoting player development. Foster's coaching tenure included leading teams to NCAA tournament appearances.
Continue ReadingAlfred Kastler
Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 1966
Born
May 3rd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1984 41 years ago — 81 years old
Contributions focused on atomic and molecular spectroscopy. Developed methods for studying atomic frequencies, leading to advances in laser technology. Significant work in the area of optical pumping garnered international recognition. Served as a professor in various academic institutions, influencing a generation of physicists.
Continue ReadingFrançois Fénelon
French archbishop and theologian
Born
August 6th, 1651 374 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1715 310 years ago — 63 years old
An archbishop, theologian, and poet, contributed significantly to the understanding of mysticism and spirituality in Christianity. Served as the Bishop of Cambrai, where Fénelon engaged in various educational and religious reforms. Wrote extensively, with notable works including 'Les aventures de Télémaque', which explored moral philosophy through a fictional narrative. Additionally, Fénelon was a prominent figure in the court of King Louis XIV, where he advocated for the education of young people and reform in the Catholic church during a time of great change in France.
Continue ReadingCarl Schuricht
Conductor and renowned orchestral leader
Born
July 3rd, 1880 145 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1967 58 years ago — 86 years old
A conductor with German-Swiss roots, contributed significantly to the classical music scene throughout the 20th century. Long career included leading major orchestras such as the Berlin Philharmonic and the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande. Developed a reputation for interpreting works by composers including Brahms, Bruckner, and Mahler. Also worked extensively in the recording industry, aiding in the preservation and dissemination of classical music through phonograph records. His leadership and interpretation style influenced numerous musicians and conductors in the classical tradition. Continued to perform and conduct until the later years of life, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.
Continue ReadingJ. L. B. Smith
Chemist and academic; worked in organic chemistry.
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1968 57 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent chemist and academic, contributions focused on the field of organic chemistry. This individual served as a professor at several institutions and made significant advancements in chemical education. Research involved the study of natural products and the synthesis of complex organic compounds. Authored numerous publications that advanced the understanding of chemical processes. Leadership roles in academic societies enhanced the landscape of chemistry in the region.
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