John Toland

American historian and author of WWII works

John Toland - American historian and author of WWII works
Born

June 29th, 1912
113 years ago

Died

January 4th, 2004
21 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

Significant contributions to historical literature included works focusing on World War II. Authored acclaimed books, providing detailed accounts and analyses of events and figures. Gained recognition for thorough research and engaging narrative style. Awards included the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography.

Wrote 'The Rising Sun' detailing Japan's role in WWII

Authored 'Adolf Hitler', a biography on the Nazi leader

Other People Born on June 29th

Michael Whelan

American Artist and Science Fiction Illustrator
Born
June 29th, 1950 75 years ago

An influential artist in the science fiction genre, produced numerous book covers and illustrations. Contributed to the visual imagery of science fiction literature and pop culture, working with authors such as Isaac Asimov and Ray Bradbury. Achieved recognition for a distinctive style that blends realism with fantasy elements. Awarded multiple Hugo and Chesley Awards for excellence in science fiction and fantasy art.

Continue Reading

Eddie Mabo

Australian land rights activist
Born
June 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1992 33 years ago — 55 years old

An Australian land rights activist focused on the legal recognition of Indigenous land rights. Played a key role in the landmark case Mabo v Queensland (No 2), which overturned the doctrine of terra nullius in Australia, leading to significant changes in land rights legislation. Advocated for the rights of the Meriam people, raising awareness about the historical injustices faced by Indigenous Australians. Died before the ruling was delivered, but the decision is celebrated as a significant step forward in Indigenous land rights.

Continue Reading

Jean-Louis Pesch

French author and illustrator of children's books
Born
June 29th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 95 years old

An author and illustrator specialized in children's literature, acclaimed for creating beloved characters and stories. Pioneered the genre with engaging illustrations that captivated young readers. Contributed to various projects that enriched the literary landscape for children in France and beyond. Published numerous books which have become classics in children's literature, leaving a lasting legacy.

Continue Reading

Harry Schell

Race car driver and Monaco GP competitor
Born
June 29th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 39 years old

Participated in Formula One racing during the 1950s. Competed in multiple Grand Prix events, primarily driving for teams such as Ferrari and BRM. Achieved notable performances in the Monaco Grand Prix, finishing on the podium multiple times. Also raced in other series, including sports cars and Formula 2. Continued to influence the sport through his legacy and connections in the racing community.

Continue Reading

Francis W. Nye

Major General in the Air Force
Born
June 29th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 101 years old

Served as a major general in the United States Air Force and played a significant role during the Cold War era. Oversaw various operations related to strategic air command and management. Contributed to the development of air power strategies that shaped military doctrine. Held leadership positions that involved planning and executing key military initiatives. Engaged in efforts to enhance the operational readiness of the Air Force and ensure national security during pivotal moments in history.

Continue Reading

Dieter Althaus

German politician and former minister
Born
June 29th, 1958 67 years ago

Served as the Minister-President of Thuringia from 2003 to 2009. Played a significant role in the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party at the regional level. Held various governmental positions and contributed to state policy and legislation during tenure. Participated in major political decisions impacting Thuringia's development and growth.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 4th

Milt Schmidt

Ice hockey player and coach, Stanley Cup winner
Born
March 5th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2017 8 years ago — 98 years old

A Canadian ice hockey player, coach, and general manager. Played for the Boston Bruins in the NHL from 1936 to 1955. Captured the Stanley Cup in 1939 and 1941. Served as head coach for the Bruins post-playing career and was later named the team's general manager. Contributed to the growth of ice hockey in Canada through various coaching and managerial roles.

Continue Reading

John William Draper

Physician and chemist, photographer
Born
1811 214 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1882 143 years ago — 71 years old

A physician and chemist, contributed to early photography. Played a significant role in the development of daguerreotype, one of the first successful photographic processes. Conducted research in various scientific fields including chemistry and meteorology. Published numerous works including 'The History of the Conflict between Religion and Science', which explores the relationship between science and religion.

Continue Reading

Alfred Grünfeld

Austrian pianist and composer
Born
1852 173 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1924 101 years ago — 72 years old

A significant figure in the classical music scene, this individual gained recognition as both a pianist and a composer. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they contributed numerous compositions to the piano repertoire. Their work included arrangements and original compositions that showcased technical proficiency and musicality. The individual was associated with various influential music organizations and held a prominent position in concerts across Europe.

Continue Reading

Henri Bergson

Philosopher and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 18th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1941 84 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1859, a prominent French philosopher focused on metaphysics and epistemology. Bergson's philosophical work emphasized intuition over intellect in understanding life and time. His major texts include "Time and Free Will," "Matter and Memory," and "Creative Evolution." The latter introduced the idea of evolution as a creative process, distinct from Darwinian theories. In 1927, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for the richness of his thought and guidance of humanity toward understanding its richer realities. His influence extended to various fields, including literature, psychology, and biology, impacting contemporary philosophers and intellectuals.

Continue Reading

Albert Camus

French philosopher and Nobel laureate
Born
November 7th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1960 65 years ago — 46 years old

A prominent novelist, philosopher, and journalist, this individual played a significant role in 20th-century literature and philosophy. Best known for works that explore themes of absurdism and existentialism, significant publications include 'The Stranger' and 'The Myth of Sisyphus'. Active during the French Resistance against Nazi occupation, contributions to political thought are also evident. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957 for writings marked by a deep concern for human rights and justice. This individual’s elaborate essays and novels inspired many intellectual circles.

Continue Reading

François-Henri de Montmorency

French general and duc de Luxembourg
Born
January 8th, 1628 397 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1695 330 years ago — 66 years old

Served as a prominent general in the French army during the late 17th century. Held the title of duc de Luxembourg and earned a reputation for leadership and strategic prowess in military engagements. Played a significant role in the War of the League of Augsburg, particularly in the Battle of Fleurus. His military campaigns solidified French dominance in various regions of Europe. De Montmorency's contributions to military tactics and his engagements in pivotal battles were instrumental in shaping the outcomes of conflicts during his time.

Continue Reading