Johnny Weissmuller
Swimmer and Tarzan movie star
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Achieved prominence as a competitive swimmer, winning five Olympic gold medals in the 1920s. Set numerous world records in swimming, many of which stood for years. Transitioned to a successful acting career, becoming the first actor to portray Tarzan in film with the 1932 movie 'Tarzan the Ape Man.' Continued to star in multiple sequels, cementing a legacy in American cinema. Weissmuller's portrayal became iconic, and he contributed to popularizing the character of Tarzan in popular culture.
Winning five Olympic gold medals
Setting multiple world records in swimming
Starring in 'Tarzan the Ape Man' and sequels
Other People Born on June 2nd
Duchess Alexandra Petrovna of Oldenburg
Duchess, wife of Grand Duke Michael
Born
June 2nd, 1838 187 years ago
Died
1900 126 years ago — 62 years old
Born into the House of Oldenburg, held the title of Duchess. Married Grand Duke Michael of Russia in 1863, establishing ties between the Russian Imperial family and the House of Oldenburg. Actively participated in social engagements and charity work throughout her life, supporting various causes. Lived through significant historical periods including the decline of the Russian Empire, and experienced major social changes leading up to the Russian Revolution.
Continue ReadingTex Schramm
NFL executive and Dallas Cowboys architect
Born
June 2nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 83 years old
An influential NFL executive, shaped the Dallas Cowboys franchise. Served as the team's first general manager and president, instrumental in building the Cowboys into a prominent professional football franchise. Advocated for innovations in the sport, including the implementation of instant replay and the use of television as a tool for promotion. Played a significant role in the formation of the NFL and AFL merger, leading to the establishment of the Super Bowl as a premier event in American sports.
Continue ReadingVolodymyr Holubnychy
Ukrainian race walker and Olympian
Born
June 2nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 85 years old
The athlete specialized in race walking, competing at the international level. Achievements include participation in the 1960 Rome Olympics, where an Olympic performance was showcased. Multiple national championships were won, contributing to the advancement of race walking in Ukraine.
Continue ReadingKarl Adolph Gjellerup
Danish author and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 2nd, 1857 168 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1919 106 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1857, a Danish author and poet contributed significantly to literature during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Gjellerup's works often explored themes of spirituality and existentialism, reflecting the intellectual currents of his time. He gained international recognition for his literary contributions, culminating in the receipt of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1917. His writings include both poetry and prose, showcasing a deep engagement with philosophical ideas and a quest for meaning. Gjellerup's influence extended beyond Denmark, as he became an important figure in the literary movements of his era.
Continue ReadingFerdinand I of Naples
King of Naples and Sicily
Born
June 2nd, 1423 602 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1494 532 years ago — 70 years old
Ruled as King of Naples from 1458 until death in 1494. Established the Aragonese dynasty in Naples, strengthening the blend of cultures in the region. Worked to consolidate power in southern Italy and ensure stability through alliances and political marriages. Under reign, Naples enjoyed a period of relative peace and prosperity, marked by advancements in culture and the arts. Made efforts to fortify the kingdom against external threats.
Continue ReadingGary Bettman
NHL Commissioner during expansion era
Born
June 2nd, 1952 73 years ago
Served as the 14th Commissioner of the National Hockey League since 1993. Played a significant role in the growth of the NHL, overseeing multiple expansions and the introduction of new franchises. Implemented various changes and strategies to increase the popularity and visibility of ice hockey, including media deals and global outreach programs. Played a crucial part in the creation of the NHL salary cap and the implementation of rule changes aimed at improving the pace and scoring of games.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 20th
Jaroslav Kubera
Czech politician and Senate President
Born
February 16th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2020 6 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a prominent Czech politician, holding the position of President of the Senate from 2018 until death in 2020. Represented the Civic Democratic Party and was active in regional politics prior to his role in the Senate. Emphasized issues related to provincial development and local governance.
Continue ReadingRobert P. T. Coffin
American author and poet
Born
1892 134 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1955 71 years ago — 63 years old
An author and poet from the United States, produced a significant body of work throughout the early to mid-20th century. Contributed extensively to American letters and was actively involved in literary circles. Published several poetry collections and novels, gaining recognition for both his narrative style and themes. Served as a professor at the University of New Hampshire, fostering a new generation of writers and poets. His poems often reflected on nature and human experiences, earning a place within the American literary canon.
Continue ReadingNaomi Parker Fraley
American naval machinist and icon
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2018 8 years ago — 97 years old
A machinist during World War II, contributed to the war effort by working in a naval shipyard. Fraley operated machinery essential for the construction of naval vessels. The image of a woman in a blue bandana, often mistaken as the basis for the character 'Rosie the Riveter', became emblematic of female workers' contributions in factories and shipyards during the war. Continued to advocate for the recognition of women in the workforce.
Continue ReadingAlamgir Kabir
Bangladeshi film director and screenwriter
Born
December 26th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1989 37 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent Bangladeshi director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual significantly contributed to the country's film industry. Working in the 1970s and 1980s, created notable films that explored social themes and cultural issues. Contributions included involvement with the film 'A River Named Titas' and other cinematic works that reflected the struggles of the Bangladeshi people. This person's work is celebrated for its artistic integrity and thought-provoking narratives, influencing a generation of filmmakers in Bangladesh.
Continue ReadingT. Nadaraja
Sri Lankan lawyer and academic
Born
December 27th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2004 22 years ago — 86 years old
Practiced law and contributed to academia in Sri Lanka. Served in various capacities within the legal community and committed to advancing legal education. Engaged in scholarly work that addressed legal issues pertinent to Sri Lanka, influencing both practitioners and students. Involved in initiatives aimed at improving the legal system and fostering a better understanding of law among the populace.
Continue ReadingRobinson Jeffers
American poet and philosopher
Born
January 10th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1962 64 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in American poetry, this individual contributed significantly to the literary landscape through evocative and powerful verse. Influenced by nature and human existence, his style often reflected a deep connection to the natural world. His works frequently explored themes of solitude, the vastness of the universe, and the interplay between humanity and nature. Major collections include 'Tamar' and 'The Tower Beyond Tragedy', showcasing his unique blend of philosophical reflections and poetic imagination. Additionally, the poet's essays delved into subjects such as ethics, modern civilization, and the relationship between man and nature, further establishing his reputation in both poetry and philosophy.
Continue Reading