Jules de Goncourt
French author and literary critic
Contributed significantly to 19th-century literature, primarily through the collaboration with his brother, writing numerous novels and essays. Established a comprehensive diary that chronicled the literary and artistic circles of Paris, offering insight into contemporary culture. Authored important works such as 'Germinie Lacerteux,' which explored themes of social realism and psychological depth.
Published 'Germinie Lacerteux' in 1864
Co-authored 'The Journal of the Goncourt Brothers'
Influenced the development of naturalism in literature
Other People Born on December 17th
Liisa Ehrberg
Estonian cyclist with championship titles
Born
December 17th, 1988 37 years ago
Competed in various national and international cycling events. Achieved significant success in road cycling, including participation in the UCI Women's World Tour. Represented Estonia in multiple championships, contributing to the visibility of Estonian cyclists on the global stage.
Continue ReadingPenelope Fitzgerald
English author awarded the Booker Prize
Born
December 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2000 26 years ago — 83 years old
An English author and poet, this writer achieved recognition for works that often explore themes of loss and the complexities of human relationships. The literary career spanned several decades, with notable works including 'Offshore', which received the Booker Prize in 1979. Other significant titles include 'The Bookshop' and 'Human Voices', each contributing to a distinguished portfolio that reflects keen observations of life and society. The author's later works continued to earn critical acclaim, showcasing a unique narrative style that resonated with readers and critics alike.
Continue ReadingDonald Payne Jr.
American politician and congressman
Born
December 17th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
April 24th, 2024 2 years ago — 65 years old
Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New Jersey's 10th congressional district. Elected to office in 2012, following the passing of father and predecessor, Donald M. Payne Sr. Focused on issues such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure throughout tenure. Played a significant role in addressing various community concerns.
Continue ReadingNat Wolff
American actor and musician
Born
December 17th, 1994 31 years ago
An actor and musician. Rose to prominence as part of the band The Naked Brothers Band, which also had a television series on Nickelodeon. Transitioned into film and gained recognition for roles in movies such as 'The Fault in Our Stars' and 'Paper Towns'. In addition to acting, pursued a solo music career, releasing albums that showcased a blend of pop and rock influences.
Continue ReadingKiersey Clemons
American actress in 'Transparent' and 'Dope'
Born
December 17th, 1993 32 years ago
An actress gained recognition for roles in prominent television and film projects. Notably appeared in the Amazon series 'Transparent' and starred in the film 'Dope', which received critical acclaim. Also featured in the DC Extended Universe film 'The Flash'. Involved in various projects that contribute to discussions around representation in media.
Continue ReadingGuerschon Yabusele
French basketball player with NBA experience
Born
December 17th, 1995 30 years ago
Born in France, a professional basketball player competed in the NBA and European leagues. Played for the Boston Celtics and contributed to the team during the 2017-2018 season. Transitioned to international play with success in European competitions and has represented France in international tournaments. Known for a strong playing style and versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 20th
Suzanne Comhaire-Sylvain
Haitian anthropologist and cultural researcher
Born
1898 128 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1975 51 years ago — 77 years old
An influential figure in Haitian anthropology, extensive research focused on the culture and social structures of Haitian society. Contributed significantly to understanding the historical and cultural context of Haiti through field studies. Comhaire-Sylvain emphasized the importance of folklore and oral traditions in shaping national identity. Worked to document and analyze the complexity of Haitian culture, bridging local knowledge and academic research. Her writings highlighted the nuances of Haitian social life and contributed to the preservation of cultural heritage.
Continue ReadingHorace Lindrum
Australian snooker champion and player
Born
1912 114 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1974 52 years ago — 62 years old
An accomplished snooker player from Australia, won the World Professional Snooker Championship in 1952. Achieved significant success in both national and international competitions. Played a key role in popularizing snooker during the mid-20th century. Enjoyed a lengthy career that highlighted exceptional skills and techniques.
Continue ReadingProdigy
Rapper with Mobb Deep acclaim
Born
November 2nd, 1974 51 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2017 9 years ago — 42 years old
An American rapper and member of the hip-hop duo Mobb Deep. Achieved acclaim through the group's landmark album 'The Infamous' released in 1995. Mobb Deep gained prominence in the 1990s for their gritty lyrics and beats, becoming essential figures in the East Coast hip-hop scene. Contributed to the genre through collaborations with various artists and a solo career. Prodigy's distinctive voice and lyrical prowess influenced many emerging rappers.
Continue ReadingIngvar Rydell
Swedish footballer and national team player
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2013 13 years ago — 91 years old
A professional footballer from Sweden, Rydell played as a forward. He had a significant career at Hammarby IF and participated in international competitions representing the Swedish national team. Rydell's contributions were evident in both domestic leagues and international matches, showcasing skills that contributed to team successes.
Continue ReadingHijikata Toshizō
Japanese military commander and rebel leader
Born
May 31st, 1835 191 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1869 157 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1835, he served as the vice commander of the Shinsengumi during the late Edo period. The Shinsengumi was a special police force formed to protect the Tokugawa shogunate. He played a crucial role in various battles during the Boshin War, which was a civil war between imperial and shogunate forces. Hijikata's leadership helped shape the resistance against the Meiji Restoration, aiming to preserve the samurai way of life. He died in 1869 at the Battle of Hakodate, marking the end of the Shinsengumi.
Continue ReadingTaylor Wily
Actor and sumo wrestler from Hawaii
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2024 2 years ago — 56 years old
Started career as a sumo wrestler in Japan, competing in the top division and accumulating a significant following. Transitioned to acting, gaining prominence for the role of Kamekona in the television series 'Hawaii Five-0'. This role showcased a blend of humor and charm, contributing to the show's popularity. Additionally, participated in mixed martial arts events, representing Hawaii. Wily's background in both sports and entertainment highlights a unique dual career.
Continue Reading