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
Beryl Reid
English actress and television star
Born
June 17th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1996 29 years ago — 77 years old
An accomplished actress in theater, film, and television, she gained prominence for her work in British comedy. Reid starred in the sitcoms 'Hugh and I' and 'The Larkins.' Her performance in 'The Killing of Sister George' earned acclaim, showcasing her talent in portraying complex characters. Reid's career spanned several decades, during which she appeared in numerous stage productions and television shows, becoming a recognizable face on British screens.
Continue ReadingThomas Haden Church
Actor, known for 'Sideways' and 'Wings'
Born
June 17th, 1960 65 years ago
An American actor engaged in television and film. Early career included cast roles in the television series 'Wings', playing Lowell Mather from 1990 to 1997. Gained recognition for the role in the critically acclaimed film 'Sideways' in 2004, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Highlighted in further projects, including roles in 'Spider-Man 3' and 'George of the Jungle'.
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 ReadingJames Weldon Johnson
Author and civil rights activist
Born
June 17th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1938 87 years ago — 67 years old
An author, journalist, and civil rights activist, this individual contributed significantly to the Harlem Renaissance. Works included the organizing of the NAACP and the composition of the anthem 'Lift Every Voice and Sing.' Additionally, served as the first African American executive secretary of the NAACP from 1920 to 1930, advocating for civil rights during a pivotal time in American history. Other literary contributions included novels and poetry, which highlighted the African American experience.
Continue ReadingGregory Blaxland
Explorer and early settler of Australia
Born
June 17th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1853 172 years ago — 74 years old
An Australian farmer and explorer, contributed to the exploration of New South Wales. In 1813, led the first successful crossing of the Blue Mountains, which opened up new land for settlement. His journey played a significant role in the expansion of the agricultural frontier in Australia. Blaxland's work established essential routes that facilitated further exploration and colonization of the interior regions of New South Wales.
Continue ReadingAlan Dowson
Football manager and player
Born
June 17th, 1970 55 years ago
A football manager and former professional player primarily associated with English football, played as a forward during a playing career that spanned the late 1980s to the early 2000s. Transitioned to management post-retirement, with significant tenures at clubs including Kingstonian and Hampton & Richmond Borough. Achieved notable success in non-league football, leading teams to impressive cup runs and promotion campaigns. Developed a reputation for building competitive teams in lower divisions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 24th
Shripad Narayan Pendse
Marathi novelist and playwright
Died
March 24th, 2007 18 years ago — None years old
An influential Marathi novelist and playwright, this individual contributed significantly to Marathi literature. Born in 1913, he began writing at a young age and published his first novel, 'Manthan,' which highlighted social issues and human relationships. Over the years, he produced various works including novels and plays that reflected contemporary society and cultural themes. In addition to writing, he served in various editorial roles, fostering literary discussions within the Marathi-speaking community. His literary contributions earned him a place in the pantheon of notable Marathi writers until his death in 2007.
Continue ReadingMaria Amalia of Naples and Sicily
Queen of France
Born
April 26th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1866 159 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1782, the individual served as Queen consort of France through marriage to King Louis-Philippe I. The reign lasted from 1830 to 1848 amid significant political changes in France. The queen upheld the arts and participated in various charitable initiatives. After the abdication of her husband, she lived in exile, returning to France on occasion before her death in 1866.
Continue ReadingCarl Schuhmann
German gymnast and Olympic champion
Born
May 12th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1946 79 years ago — 76 years old
Competed in gymnastics and athletics, achieving notable success in both disciplines. Won a gold medal in gymnastics at the 1896 Athens Olympics, becoming the first Olympic champion in the sport. Also participated in the shot put and high jump events during his athletic career, representing Germany in various competitions.
Continue ReadingPieter de Hooch
Dutch painter of genre scenes
Born
December 20th, 1629 396 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1684 341 years ago — 54 years old
A Dutch painter specialized in genre scenes, recognized for his mastery of light and perspective. Active during the Dutch Golden Age, highlighted domestic interiors and everyday life. Worked closely with other influential artists and was part of the Dutch art movement that emphasized realism and emotional depth. Many works feature tranquil home environments and women engaged in domestic tasks, conveying a sense of serenity and order. The artist's works reflect the social and cultural settings of 17th-century Holland, showcasing a sophisticated understanding of composition and atmosphere.
Continue ReadingJohan Cruyff
Footballer and coach, three-time Ballon d'Or winner
Born
April 25th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent figure in football, gained recognition as a forward known for exceptional skill and intelligence on the pitch. Played for Ajax and FC Barcelona. Contributed significantly to Ajax's dominance in the 1970s, leading the team to three consecutive European Cups from 1971 to 1973. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, achieving notable success with Barcelona, including the club's first European Cup victory in 1992. Advocated for a style of play that emphasized possession and creativity, influencing future generations of footballers and coaches.
Continue ReadingSigrid Hjertén
Swedish painter known for modernist works
Born
October 27th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1948 77 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent Swedish painter and illustrator, recognized for contributions to modernist art. Hjertén studied at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts and later ventured to Paris, where she became influenced by the Fauvist movement. The artist played a vital role in the development of early 20th-century Swedish modernism. Hjertén's works often depicted vibrant colors, expressive forms, and personal themes. She was married to painter Anna Cassel, with whom she shared both artistic and personal experiences. Hjertén's art gained posthumous recognition, showcasing the emotional depth and technical skill characteristic of her style.
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