John Hersey

American journalist and author of Hiroshima

John Hersey - American journalist and author of Hiroshima
Born

June 17th, 1914
110 years ago

Died

March 24th, 1993
31 years ago — 78 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

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

John Maurice

Dutch nobleman and military leader
Born
June 17th, 1604 420 years ago
Died
1679 346 years ago — 75 years old

Born in the Netherlands, a member of the House of Nassau-Siegen and known for military service during the Eighty Years' War. Served as governor of Dutch Brazil from 1637 to 1644, significantly contributing to the administration and development of the colony. Promoted the arts and sciences in the territory, establishing an environment that encouraged cultural and scientific advancements. After returning to Europe, held various roles in the Dutch Republic, involved in military affairs.

Continue Reading

Alec Hurwood

Australian cricketer, Test player
Born
June 17th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1982 42 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Australia, a cricketer represented the national team in Test matches during the 1920s. Played primarily as a bowler, excelled in competitive cricket and contributed to the team's performance. Participated in several notable Test series, showcasing skill in both bowling and batting. In total, played a key role in numerous matches, leaving a mark on the sport during the early stages of international cricket.

Continue Reading

Edward I

English king with significant conquests
Born
June 17th, 1239 785 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1307 717 years ago — 68 years old

Reigned as king of England from 1272 to 1307. Known for a series of military campaigns in Wales and Scotland. Completed the construction of several castles, including Caernarfon and Harlech in Wales, to solidify control. Led the English forces during the Wars of Scottish Independence, aiming to integrate Scotland into the English realm. Instituted legal reforms known as the Model Parliament, which helped shape the modern parliamentary system. His reign marked a shift towards a more centralized monarchy.

Continue Reading

David Akeman

American banjo player and singer
Born
June 17th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1915, a prominent figure in American bluegrass music and country. Gained popularity through performances on the Grand Ole Opry. Acclaimed for contributions to the genre, combining traditional Appalachian music with contemporary styles. Played the banjo and sang, showcasing his talent at various venues and recordings. His energetic performances and distinctive style influenced many artists in the bluegrass and country music scenes.

Continue Reading

Amari Cooper

American football wide receiver, Pro Bowler
Born
June 17th, 1994 30 years ago

A wide receiver excelled in the National Football League (NFL), starting a career with the Oakland Raiders after being selected fourth overall in the 2015 NFL Draft. Played for the Dallas Cowboys after a mid-season trade in 2018. Accumulated multiple Pro Bowl selections and set franchise records for receptions and receiving yards. Contributed significantly to team playoff appearances and was a key player in pivotal games.

Continue Reading

Ajahn Chah

Thai Buddhist monk and meditation teacher
Born
June 17th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Thailand in 1918, became a prominent figure in the Thai Forest Tradition of Theravada Buddhism. Established Wat Pah Pong and Wat Nong Pah Pong, attracting many monks and lay practitioners. Emphasized mindfulness and meditation techniques, spreading teachings beyond Thailand. Contributed to the development of Western Buddhist practices through his disciples. Engaged in teaching and writing on Buddhism until death in 1992.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 24th

Johan Cruyff

Footballer and coach, three-time Ballon d'Or winner
Born
April 25th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2016 8 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 Reading

Hans Hermann Groër

Austrian cardinal and church leader
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2003 21 years ago — 84 years old

Served as a prominent leader within the Roman Catholic Church in Austria, providing guidance and oversight to its activities. Ordained as a priest in 1951, took on various roles within the church hierarchy. Appointed as the Archbishop of Vienna in 1986, held this position until 1995. Advocated for religious education and church outreach, contributing to discussions on faith and social issues. Participated in numerous ecclesiastical conferences, representing the Vatican's interests domestically and internationally. Resigned amidst controversy and criticism over his handling of church matters.

Continue Reading

Neil Aspinall

Record producer and manager of The Beatles
Born
October 13th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2008 16 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 Reading

Gábor Ocskay

Hungarian ice hockey player and captain
Born
1975 50 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2009 15 years ago — 34 years old

Acclaimed ice hockey player played for the Hungarian national team and served as captain. Competed in international tournaments and contributed to the growth of ice hockey in Hungary. His career included participation in the IIHF World Championship, and he played professionally for various clubs, most notably the Hungarian team Alba Volán Székesfehérvár. Participated in the 2004 World Championship and was pivotal in securing victories in several European leagues.

Continue Reading

Harun al-Rashid

Arab caliph during the Abbasid Empire
Died
March 24th, 809 1215 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 Reading

Gertrud Scholtz-Klink

German politician and women's leader
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1999 25 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent German politician associated with the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP), played a significant role in the Nazi regime's women's organization. Served as the head of the National Socialist Women's League from 1934 to 1945, promoting the regime's ideology regarding women's roles. After World War II, faced denazification processes and later lived in post-war Germany, reflecting on the political changes.

Continue Reading