Jimmy Driftwood
Singer-songwriter and banjo player
Contributed significantly to American folk music as a singer-songwriter and banjo player. Gained prominence with the song 'The Battle of New Orleans', which won a Grammy Award. Engaged in education through music, composing over 300 songs while also serving as a school principal. Efforts to promote traditional folk music are noted in various recordings and performances.
Wrote 'The Battle of New Orleans', Grammy Award winner
Composed over 300 songs
Served as a school principal
Other People Born on June 20th
Wilfrid 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 ReadingAnnik Van den Bosch
Belgian politician and public servant
Born
June 20th, 1971 54 years ago
Born in Belgium, an accomplished politician participated actively in national politics. Completed a degree in political science before embarking on a career in public service. Engaged in various legislative initiatives aimed at improving social welfare and education. Served as a member of the Belgian Parliament, contributing to debates and policy-making processes. Advocated for sustainable development and transparency in government affairs.
Continue ReadingSigismund III Vasa
King of Poland and Sweden
Born
June 20th, 1566 459 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1632 393 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1566, ruled as King of Poland from 1587 and King of Sweden from 1592 until 1599. His reign saw involvement in the wars against Russia and the conflicts with Sweden. Sigismund attempted to strengthen the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and promoted Catholicism in both realms. His reign was marked by political strife, particularly regarding his claims to the Swedish throne, which culminated in his deposition in Sweden. Sigismund's relationship with the nobility in both kingdoms was complex, often leading to tension and conflict over power and governance. His legacy includes significant contributions to the cultural and political landscape of both Poland and Sweden during the period.
Continue ReadingJacob 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 ReadingDoris Hart
Tennis player with multiple Grand Slam titles
Born
June 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent American tennis player, achieved significant success during the 1940s and 1950s. Secured a total of six Grand Slam singles titles and an impressive 35 Grand Slam titles across various categories, which includes doubles and mixed doubles. Played for the United States in several international competitions. After retirement, transitioned into a career in education, contributing to the development of tennis programs and teaching the sport to young athletes.
Continue ReadingJohn Mahoney
Actor in 'Frasier' and 'Steel Magnolias'
Born
June 20th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2018 7 years ago — 77 years old
An English-American actor and voice artist, achieved prominence for a role as Martin Crane in the television series 'Frasier'. This acclaimed role earned critical recognition and multiple nominations. Additionally, performed in the film 'Steel Magnolias' and showcased versatility in various stage productions across the United States. Started a career in theater before transitioning to television and film, contributing substantially to acting craft and performance art.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 12th
Kenneth More
English film and television actor
Born
September 20th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1982 43 years ago — 67 years old
An English actor gained recognition for performances in film and television during the mid-20th century. Featured prominently in the film "The Cruel Sea" (1953), which showcased the wartime experiences of the Royal Navy, and starred in the comedy classic "Doctor in the House" (1954) series. His work encompassed a range of genres, particularly in romantic comedies and war dramas, earning accolades for versatility in acting. Later, continued to build a reputation on stage and in various television productions while contributing to the British entertainment scene. During the 1960s, he received wider acclaim for portraying characters with depth and charm.
Continue ReadingSherwood Schwartz
Television producer behind sitcoms
Born
November 14th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent television producer and writer, this individual created several beloved sitcoms during the mid-20th century. The most notable works include 'The Brady Bunch' and 'Gilligan's Island', which became iconic representations of American family life and adventure, respectively. Schwartz also contributed to the development of variety shows, enhancing the landscape of television comedy. His ability to create engaging characters and memorable storylines established a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingElaine Morgan
Welsh writer and aquatic ape hypothesis proponent
Born
November 7th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
A Welsh writer, contributed significantly to the field of evolutionary anthropology, particularly through the aquatic ape hypothesis. This hypothesis proposed that some human evolutionary traits may have developed in an aquatic or semi-aquatic environment. Published several books exploring this hypothesis, including 'The Descent of Woman' and 'The Aquatic Ape.' Engaged in public debates regarding evolutionary theory and anthropological perspectives, advocating for a broader understanding of human evolution. Also wrote extensively on issues concerning women's rights and societal roles.
Continue ReadingRuth Westheimer
Sex therapist and media personality
Born
June 4th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 96 years old
Born in Germany, this individual emigrated to the United States after surviving the Holocaust. Education included a doctorate in human sexuality. A career in media began with the radio program 'Sexually Speaking', which later transitioned into television and other media platforms. Authored multiple books on sexuality and relationships, contributing to an increased understanding of sexual health. Teaching experience included roles at several prestigious universities, focusing on human sexuality and counseling.
Continue ReadingTonke Dragt
Children's writer and illustrator of fantasy
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 94 years old
A celebrated children's writer and illustrator from the Netherlands, recognized for crafting enchanting stories that captivate younger audiences. Notable works include the acclaimed novel 'The Letter for the King,' which has been translated into multiple languages and adapted for stage and screen. The unique blend of fantasy and adventure has resonated with readers since its publication. Illustrations complemented the narratives, highlighting a distinctive artistic style.
Continue ReadingChristfried Burmeister
Estonian speed skater and champion
Born
May 26th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1965 60 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1898, a speed skater represented Estonia in international competitions. Participated in the 1924 Winter Olympics in Chamonix, competing in several events. Contributed to the development of speed skating in Estonia during the early 20th century.
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