Katherine Dunham
Dancer, choreographer, cultural anthropologist
Dancer and choreographer developed a unique style of dance that blended African and Caribbean elements with European classical techniques. Founded the Katherine Dunham Dance Company, which became one of the first African American dance troupes to receive international acclaim. Conducted extensive research in the Caribbean, earning a PhD in anthropology. Pioneered the use of dance as a form of cultural expression and education. Advocated for civil rights and social justice through art and performance.
Developed the Dunham Technique
Founded the Katherine Dunham Dance Company
Conducted anthropological research in the Caribbean
Other People Born on June 22nd
Eliades Ochoa
Cuban guitarist and singer-songwriter
Born
June 22nd, 1946 79 years ago
A prominent figure in Cuban music, this artist gained recognition for contributions to the genre of son cubano. Initially part of the group Cuarteto Patria, later joined Buena Vista Social Club, which introduced traditional Cuban music to a global audience. The artist's distinctive guitar playing and vocals feature in the 1997 album 'Buena Vista Social Club.' This work received critical acclaim and won a Grammy Award, helping to revive interest in Caribbean music. The music reflects the rich cultural heritage of Cuba, blending various influences to create a unique sound.
Continue ReadingKlaus Maria Brandauer
Austrian actor and director, 'Mephisto'
Born
June 22nd, 1943 82 years ago
Born in 1943, an Austrian actor and director gained recognition for a prominent stage and film career. Achievements include a leading role in 'Mephisto,' which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1981. Directed and acted in numerous productions, showcasing both versatility and talent. Achieved acclaim in German-speaking theaters and participated in international film festivals, earning multiple accolades throughout the career.
Continue ReadingBrit Hume
Journalist and author, special report host
Born
June 22nd, 1943 82 years ago
A significant figure in American journalism, this individual hosted 'Special Report with Brit Hume' on Fox News for over a decade. Worked as a political correspondent at ABC News prior to joining Fox, covering major political events. Renowned for extensive political analysis and commentary, providing insights during presidential elections and significant national issues. Authored books discussing politics and the media landscape.
Continue ReadingJerry Rawlings
Ghanaian politician and former president
Born
June 22nd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 73 years old
Served as a military officer and politician in Ghana. Held the position of president from 1993 to 2001, leading significant political and economic reforms. Initially came to power through a coup d'état in 1981, prior to transitioning to a civilian leadership role. Instrumental in the establishment of the Fourth Republic and the drafting of a new constitution. Played a key role in promoting democracy and stabilization in Ghana during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingBruno Latour
Philosopher known for Actor-Network Theory
Born
June 22nd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 75 years old
A French philosopher, anthropologist, and sociologist contributed significantly to the fields of science and technology studies. Developed the Actor-Network Theory, which examines the interplay between human and non-human elements in societal developments. Wrote influential works, including 'We Have Never Been Modern' and 'Science in Action'. Engaged in critiques of modernity and explored the social construction of scientific facts. Held academic positions at institutions such as the École des Mines de Paris and was a prominent figure in contemporary social theory.
Continue ReadingHubert Chesshyre
Historian and author of historical works
Born
June 22nd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1940, a historian focused on British history, particularly the medieval period. Authored several significant works, contributing to the understanding of historical narratives and events. Recognized for research into the social and political contexts of notable eras and figures. He also served as a lecturer, sharing expertise with students and fellow historians. Worked to promote historical literacy and appreciation through various channels.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Fred Gladding
Baseball player and pitching coach
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old
Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher for multiple teams including the Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, and New York Mets. Transitioned to coaching, serving as a pitching coach for the Houston Astros and New York Mets. Contributed to the development of many players throughout his coaching career. Enjoyed a long tenure in professional baseball both as a player and a coach.
Continue ReadingEvgraf Fedorov
Mathematician and crystallographer
Born
December 22nd, 1853 172 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1919 106 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in crystallography and mineralogy. Developed fundamental theories related to the symmetry of crystals and their classification. His work laid the groundwork for subsequent advancements in the study of crystalline structures and their properties. Fedorov's research is widely regarded in scientific literature and has influenced both academic and practical applications in mineralogy.
Continue ReadingTwinkle
English singer-songwriter with chart hits
Born
July 15th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 66 years old
A singer-songwriter born in England, notable for contributions to the music scene in the late 1960s. Gained recognition with hit singles, particularly 'Golden Lights' and 'Angel of the Morning'. Her style incorporated elements of folk and pop, leading to a dedicated fan base. Continued to perform and release music decades after initial fame, showcasing resilience in the industry.
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Actor and producer in Western films
Born
June 15th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 78 years old
An American actor and producer, gained recognition for roles in Western films during the 1940s and 1950s. Starred in movies featuring a distinctive style and an iconic cowboy persona. Appeared in several films and television series that featured classic Western themes. Transitioned into producing, contributing to the development of Western genre cinema.
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Venezuelan Physician and President
Born
May 27th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
A physician and politician served as the President of Venezuela from 1984 to 1989. Initially trained as a doctor, pursued a political career and became a member of the Venezuelan Senate. Focused on public health policies during the presidency. Advocated for social reforms in the healthcare sector and worked towards improving living standards for the Venezuelan population. Engaged in discussions about economic challenges and policy implications for the country's future. His tenure witnessed significant political shifts and ongoing debates about governance.
Continue ReadingWilliamina Fleming
Astronomer; cataloged over 10,000 stars
Born
May 15th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1911 114 years ago — 54 years old
A Scottish-American astronomer and academic contributed to the field of astronomy while working at the Harvard College Observatory. Developed a system for classifying stars based on their spectral characteristics. Played a key role in the identification of variable stars and made significant contributions to the study of nebulae. Her work included creating the Henry Draper Catalogue, which documented stellar classifications.
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