John Hersey
American journalist and author of Hiroshima
A journalist and author, contributed significantly to frontline reporting and literature. Hersey's notable work includes 'Hiroshima', published in 1946, which presented a detailed account of the experiences of survivors of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War II. This work reshaped narratives around war and its consequences. In addition, Hersey covered major events such as the Second World War and the Korean War, earning recognition for his impactful journalism. Throughout his career, he won several awards for excellence in reporting and storytelling.
Authored 'Hiroshima', detailing atomic bomb impact
Reported on World War II and Korean War
Won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction in 1945
Other People Born on June 17th
Aurelio López
Baseball player and politician
Born
June 17th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1992 33 years ago — 44 years old
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Detroit Tigers and the Seattle Mariners. Achieved significant success during the late 1970s and early 1980s, contributing to teams with his skills on the mound. Transitioned into politics after retiring from professional baseball, engaging in local government and community initiatives in Mexico.
Continue ReadingMartin Bormann
German politician and Nazi leader
Born
June 17th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1945 80 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1900 in Germany, held a prominent role within the Nazi Party. Served as head of the Party Chancellery and was a close confidant of Adolf Hitler. Managed the internal affairs of the party and played a key role in the administration during World War II. Influenced various policies and decisions during the era, establishing himself as a powerful figure within the regime.
Continue ReadingBud Collins
Sports journalist and tennis commentator
Born
June 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2016 9 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent sports journalist and broadcaster, this individual covered tennis for over six decades. Contributed regularly to The Boston Globe and served as a television commentator for several networks, including NBC and ESPN. Played a significant role in the popularization of tennis through insightful commentary and comprehensive coverage. Authored books on tennis and captured the culture of the sport with unique flair and style. Received several awards for sports journalism and was elected to the International Tennis Hall of Fame in recognition of contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingAdolphus Frederick VI
Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
Born
June 17th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1918 107 years ago — 35 years old
Served as Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz from 1914 until death in 1918. Oversaw the duchy during the tumultuous period of World War I. Engaged in various cultural and political initiatives, including supporting local agriculture and infrastructure. Transitioned leadership amidst significant changes in German territories.
Continue ReadingJohann Georg Walch
Theologian and author of theological works
Born
June 17th, 1693 332 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1775 250 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent German theologian and author, contributed extensively to Lutheran theology during the 18th century. Focused on the reconciliation of confessional differences within Lutheranism and the broader Christian community. Published significant works that addressed doctrinal issues and interpretations of Scripture. Played a crucial role in educational reforms for the clergy, promoting theological training and biblical scholarship.
Continue ReadingRed Foley
Country singer and songwriter
Born
June 17th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1968 57 years ago — 58 years old
An influential figure in country music, this individual gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. He recorded numerous hits and helped popularize the genre through performances on radio and television. Key achievements include hosting the Grand Ole Opry and having a successful career as a recording artist. Various albums featured standout tracks that contributed to the growth of country music during that era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 24th
Enrique Granados
Spanish pianist and composer of Goyescas
Born
July 27th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1916 109 years ago — 48 years old
A Spanish pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the early 20th-century classical music scene. Granados studied under notable composers and gained attention for his piano compositions, which reflected Spanish folk themes. His most prominent work, Goyescas, premiered in 1911 and includes a suite for piano that later inspired an opera adaptation. Granados's life was cut short during World War I when his ship was torpedoed while crossing the English Channel. Despite his brief career, his influence in the realm of Romantic music remains.
Continue ReadingGeorge Kell
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
August 23rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2009 16 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American baseball player, best recognized for a distinguished career as a third baseman. Played primarily for the Detroit Tigers and achieved notable success during the 1940s and 1950s. Excelled at batting, which earned selection to the All-Star game multiple times. Transitioned into broadcasting after retirement, providing play-by-play and analysis in various media formats. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1983, solidifying a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingHarun al-Rashid
Arab caliph during the Abbasid Empire
Died
March 24th, 809 1216 years ago — None years old
Ruled from 786 to 809, established the height of the Abbasid Caliphate. Oversaw a flourishing economy and cultural advancements during the Islamic Golden Age. The court in Baghdad became a major center of learning and culture, attracting scholars, poets, and thinkers. Promoted arts, science, and literature, exemplified by the work 'One Thousand and One Nights'. Engaged in military campaigns to expand the empire's territory and influence.
Continue ReadingNeil Aspinall
Record producer and manager of The Beatles
Born
October 13th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2008 17 years ago — 66 years old
A Welsh-English record producer and manager oversaw the production and management of the iconic rock band The Beatles. Worked closely with the band during their peak years, helping shape their musical legacy. Played a significant role in the launch of Apple Records and managed various projects for the band members after disbandment. Guided the band's historic recordings and was a pivotal figure in their promotional efforts. Contributed to the lucrative reissues and compilations that kept the band's music relevant for subsequent generations.
Continue ReadingJames Rudolph Garfield
American politician and Secretary of the Interior
Born
October 17th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1950 75 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 23rd Secretary of the Interior from 1921 to 1923, overseeing the management of federal lands and resources. Played a significant role in the administration of the National Park Service. Engaged in law practice and public service prior to his appointment, contributing to legal advancements and policy development.
Continue ReadingE. T. Whittaker
British mathematician and physicist
Born
October 24th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1956 69 years ago — 82 years old
A mathematical physicist contributed significantly to mathematical analysis and applied mathematics. Developed the theory of functions of a complex variable and worked extensively on the theory of differential equations. Authored numerous texts, including the classic 'A History of the Theories of Aether and Electricity.' His research laid groundwork for future studies in mathematical physics and astronomy, particularly in the context of gravitational theory. Served as a professor at several distinguished institutions and participated in various academic organizations.
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