Johanna Spyri

Swiss author of children's literature

Johanna Spyri - Swiss author of children's literature
Born

June 12th, 1827
197 years ago

Died

July 7th, 1901
123 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Switzerland

Links & References

An influential Swiss author, primarily recognized for the iconic children's novel 'Heidi.' The story depicts the adventures of a young girl living in the Swiss Alps and has been translated into numerous languages. Throughout her career, numerous adaptations of 'Heidi' appeared in various forms including films, stage productions, and television series, contributing to its lasting popularity. Besides 'Heidi,' other works included 'Heidi Grows Up' and 'A Story for Children,' which also focused on childhood experiences.

Authored the children's classic 'Heidi'

Wrote 'Heidi Grows Up' as a sequel

Other People Born on June 12th

John Linnell

Singer-songwriter with They Might Be Giants
Born
June 12th, 1959 65 years ago

A singer-songwriter and musician emerged in the early 1980s. Co-founded the band They Might Be Giants, known for blending rock with unique sounds and innovative lyrics. Released influential albums including 'Flood' and 'Apollo 18', achieving critical and commercial success. Developed a distinctive style that combines various musical genres, contributing to a growing fanbase over decades. In addition to music, ventured into children's entertainment, creating educational songs and content. Collaborated with various artists, enhancing the musical landscape with inventive approaches.

Continue Reading

Mathieu Schneider

Ice Hockey Player
Born
June 12th, 1969 55 years ago

Played professional ice hockey in the NHL for multiple teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, and Detroit Red Wings. Achieved considerable success as a defenseman, contributing to team victories and personal accolades throughout a lengthy career. Notable for participation in the Stanley Cup playoffs and international competitions representing the United States.

Continue Reading

Paul Guldin

Swiss astronomer and mathematician
Born
June 12th, 1577 447 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1643 381 years ago — 66 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematics and astronomy during the early modern period. Developed the concept of the Guldin's Theorem, contributing to the understanding of the volume of solids of revolution. Published seminal works such as "Commentaria in Sphaeram" and "De Systemate Spheroidum," which explored celestial bodies and geometric principles. Engaged in scholarly correspondence with contemporaries like Galileo, thereby influencing the scientific discourse of the time.

Continue Reading

Mamo Wolde

Ethiopian long-distance runner, Olympic champion
Born
June 12th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2002 22 years ago — 69 years old

An Ethiopian long-distance runner excelled in marathon events during the 1960s. Achieved significant recognition by winning the gold medal in the marathon at the 1968 Summer Olympics held in Mexico City. Set a world record in the marathon in 1969 with a time of 2:12:00, a benchmark that stood for several years. Contributed to the development of long-distance running in Ethiopia and inspired future generations of athletes in the region.

Continue Reading

Jrue Holiday

Professional basketball player, NBA champion
Born
June 12th, 1990 34 years ago

A professional basketball player participated in the NBA, primarily known for contributions to the New Orleans Pelicans and Milwaukee Bucks. Played as a point guard and earned recognition for defensive skills and leadership on the court. Achieved the pinnacle of success by winning the NBA Championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021. In addition to an NBA career, represented the United States in international competitions, contributing to a gold medal win at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

Continue Reading

Marina Semyonova

Ballerina and influential educator
Born
June 12th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 102 years old

Born in 1908, a prominent Russian ballerina and revered ballet teacher. Joined the Bolshoi Theatre, becoming a principal dancer and performed lead roles in productions such as 'Swan Lake' and 'The Nutcracker.' Played a significant role in the development of ballet pedagogy in the Soviet Union. Served as a professor at the Moscow State Academy of Choreography, influencing generations of dancers. Instrumental in establishing ballet's educational framework in Russia, shaping the future of ballet training.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 7th

Francisco Mendes

Politician and 1st Prime Minister
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1978 46 years ago — 45 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Guinea-Bissau after the country gained independence from Portugal in 1973. Mendes played a pivotal role in shaping the new government and the legal framework of the nation. His tenure was marked by efforts to establish and promote the nation's sovereignty, governance structures, and social reforms. Mendes's leadership contributed to the early formation of the young republic during a period of significant political and social transformation.

Continue Reading

Richard Brinsley Sheridan

Irish playwright and poet with 'The School for Scandal'
Born
1751 274 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1816 208 years ago — 65 years old

An influential playwright and poet, contributed significantly to the theatrical landscape of the late 18th century. Authored notable plays that included 'The Rivals' and 'The School for Scandal'. Established a reputation for sharp wit and satirical commentary on society. Additionally served as a politician and was a prominent figure in the London theatre scene.

Continue Reading

Robert Downey Sr.

American actor and director of films
Born
June 24th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2021 3 years ago — 85 years old

An American actor and director, contributed significantly to the field of independent cinema. Directed seminal films during the 1960s and 1970s, including 'Putney Swope' and 'Greaser's Palace.' Worked closely with son Robert Downey Jr. on various projects. Established a reputation for innovative and unconventional storytelling. His work often blended humor and social commentary, influencing a generation of filmmakers.

Continue Reading

Maria Barroso

Portuguese actress and politician
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2015 9 years ago — 90 years old

An accomplished actress, she achieved recognition in Portuguese cinema and television. Contributed significantly to the cultural landscape through performances in various productions. Transitioned into politics, becoming involved in social causes and advocacy. Served as a prominent figure in the Portuguese political scene, influencing policies related to cultural and social issues. Engaged in charitable activities, including work with orphanages and social services, emphasizing the importance of community support.

Continue Reading

Edward Burd Grubb Jr.

American general and diplomat
Born
1841 184 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1913 111 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a general in the United States Army and held the position of United States Ambassador to Spain. Contributed to military operations and diplomacy during a period of significant global change at the turn of the 20th century. Engaged in efforts to strengthen U.S.-Spain relations during his ambassadorship.

Continue Reading

Leon Schlumpf

Swiss politician and Federal Council member
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2012 12 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a member of the Swiss Federal Council from 1979 to 1987. Held the portfolio of the Federal Department of Transport, Communications and Energy. Led initiatives in the field of energy policy and transportation development. During tenure, emphasized the importance of infrastructure in Switzerland's economic growth and sustainable development.

Continue Reading