John VI Kantakouzenos

Byzantine emperor and historian

John VI Kantakouzenos - Byzantine emperor and historian
Born

1292
733 years ago

Died

June 15th, 1383
642 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Greece

Links & References

Served as Byzantine emperor from 1347 to 1354, after initially holding the title of co-emperor. Received significant support from various factions during his reign, including the nobility and ecclesiastical authorities. Transitioned to a monastic life following abdication and became a prominent historian, detailing the history of his time, especially the events leading to the Fall of Constantinople. His writings provide valuable insights into the political and social landscape of the Byzantine Empire during its decline.

Reign as Byzantine emperor from 1347 to 1354

Authorship of historical accounts detailing Byzantine history

Other People Who Died on June 15th

Count Albert von Mensdorff-Pouilly-Dietrichstein

Austrian diplomat and statesman
Died
June 15th, 1945 80 years ago — None years old

Served as Austria-Hungary's ambassador to the United Kingdom and played a role in diplomatic relations during critical periods. Held numerous important diplomatic posts and was influential in shaping Austria-Hungary's foreign policy prior to and during World War I. Actively engaged in efforts to negotiate peace and navigate complex international relations. After the war, continued to represent Austria in various diplomatic capacities until the end of life.

Continue Reading

Sam Crawford

Baseball player, coach, umpire
Born
April 18th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1968 57 years ago — 88 years old

Career spanned over several decades in professional baseball, primarily playing as an outfielder. Played for the Cincinnati Reds and the Detroit Tigers, achieving a significant reputation in the early 20th century. Accumulated 3,054 career hits, securing a place among the all-time hit leaders. Transitioned into coaching and umpiring roles after retirement, contributing to the sport's development.

Continue Reading

John Vincent Atanasoff

Physicist and inventor of computing
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1995 30 years ago — 92 years old

An American physicist and inventor developed the Atanasoff-Berry computer, which is recognized as one of the first electronic computers. This pioneering work laid the foundation for modern computing technology. The design introduced the concepts of binary numbers and electronic computation, significantly influencing future computer development. Atanasoff's contributions to electronic computing occurred during the late 1930s and early 1940s at Iowa State College, where collaboration with graduate student Clifford Berry led to the completion of the device.

Continue Reading

Casey Kasem

Radio host and voice actor, American Top 40
Born
April 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent radio host and voice actor, played a pivotal role in the development of the modern music countdown format. Co-created the program American Top 40 in 1970, which achieved significant popularity and remained influential in the music industry for decades. Served as the voice of Shaggy in the animated series Scooby-Doo, which began in 1969 and continued for several adaptations. Produced various radio shows and contributed to influential music programming throughout a career spanning several decades. Helped launch the careers of several artists through the platform of his radio shows.

Continue Reading

Andy Stanfield

American sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1985 40 years ago — 58 years old

An accomplished American sprinter, gained recognition for his performance in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Won two gold medals at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, claiming victory in both sprint distances. Competed for the University of Southern California, contributing to collegiate track and field success. Set personal bests that reflected elite athletic capabilities during a prominent period in U.S. sprinting history.

Continue Reading

Brett Whiteley

Australian painter and artist
Born
April 7th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1992 33 years ago — 53 years old

An influential Australian painter, recognized for exceptional contributions to the art world during the 20th century. Predominantly worked with vibrant colors and fluid forms, capturing landscapes, still lifes, and emotive portraits. Awarded the Archibald Prize in 1976 and the Wynne Prize in 1978, showcasing talent in portraiture and landscape painting. Hosted solo exhibitions throughout Australia and internationally, including significant representation at the Venice Biennale. The artist's works are characterized by a personal and evocative style, leaving a lasting legacy in contemporary Australian art.

Continue Reading