John Carlos
Olympic Sprinter and Football Player
Competed in track and field events, primarily the 200 meters. Achieved a bronze medal at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. Alongside another athlete, raised a fist in a Black Power salute during the medal ceremony, highlighting social issues. Also played football for various teams, including stints in the American Football League.
Won a bronze medal at the 1968 Olympics
Participated in the iconic medal ceremony protest
Other People Born on June 5th
Conrad Marca-Relli
Painter and academic in Abstract Expressionism
Born
June 5th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2000 25 years ago — 87 years old
An American-Italian painter and academics significant in the Abstract Expressionism movement, an art style that emerged in the mid-20th century. Studied at the New York School under notable artists and influenced by both European and American artistic traditions. Worked primarily in collage and paint, creating distinctive works characterized by their layering and fragmentation. Exhibited alongside contemporaries in prestigious galleries, contributing to the evolution of modern art. Teaching at various institutions, provided guidance to emerging artists, fostering new talent.
Continue ReadingRoy Thomson
Canadian-English publisher and academic
Born
June 5th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1976 49 years ago — 82 years old
Published influential newspapers and magazines in Canada and the United Kingdom. Founded Thomson Corporation, which grew into a major publisher of professional and educational materials. Served as a politician, holding the title of 1st Baron Thomson of Fleet. Expanded operations into radio and television, contributing to developments in broadcasting. Contributed to the arts and education through philanthropic efforts.
Continue ReadingFederico García Lorca
Spanish poet and playwright, 'Blood Wedding'
Born
June 5th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1936 89 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1898, this individual became a prominent poet, playwright, and director in Spain. His works often reflected the cultural and social issues of the time. Major plays include 'Blood Wedding', 'Yerma', and 'The House of Bernarda Alba'. Poetry collections such as 'Gypsy Ballads' and 'Poet in New York' showcased a unique style blending surrealism and traditional Spanish forms. The individual was also involved in the Spanish theatrical movement, contributing to the development of modern Spanish drama. The tensions of the Spanish Civil War tragically led to an early death in 1936.
Continue ReadingSalvatore Ferragamo
Italian shoe designer and founder
Born
June 5th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1960 66 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1898, a prominent Italian shoe designer founded a luxury footwear brand in Florence. Gained recognition for innovative designs, craftsmanship, and the use of unique materials. Specialized in creating shoes for Hollywood stars, enhancing the glamour of the film industry in the 1920s and 1930s. Established a boutique that attracted famous clientele, which solidified the brand's status in high fashion. Later expanded into a full luxury brand offering ready-to-wear collections and accessories. Played a crucial role in the development of the modern shoe industry.
Continue ReadingTroye Sivan
Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
June 5th, 1995 30 years ago
Born in South Africa and raised in Australia, a career in music began with covers on YouTube, leading to a recording contract. Released the debut EP, TRXYE, in 2014, which topped charts in multiple countries. Achieved widespread recognition with the album Blue Neighbourhood, featuring hits like 'Youth' and 'Wild'. Also made contributions to film and television, notably in the X-Men series, portraying a character in X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Engaged in activism, particularly around LGBTQ+ rights.
Continue ReadingJacques Demy
French film director of musical cinema
Born
June 5th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1990 35 years ago — 59 years old
A significant figure in French cinema, a director and screenwriter contributed to the musical genre with a distinctive style. His most notable work, 'The Umbrellas of Cherbourg,' released in 1964, was recognized for its innovative use of music and vibrant colors. The film received the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and was influential in establishing the modern musical film. Another prominent work, 'The Young Girls of Rochefort,' also received acclaim for its enchanting visuals and memorable songs. Demy's films often explored themes of love and destiny set against picturesque backdrops, showcasing a blend of realism and fantasy, characterized by striking cinematography and detailed production design.
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