Kazimierz Leski
Polish pilot and aviation engineer
Born in 1912, a Polish pilot and engineer served in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Contributed to the development of aircraft and participated in crucial operations. After the war, returned to Poland and continued work in aviation engineering and design, focusing on improvements in aircraft performance and safety.
Served as a pilot in the Royal Air Force
Contributed to aircraft development during WWII
Worked on post-war aviation engineering projects
Other People Born on June 21st
Nils Lofgren
Singer-songwriter and guitarist with E Street Band
Born
June 21st, 1951 74 years ago
Acted as guitarist and songwriter for the E Street Band, collaborating with Bruce Springsteen. Released solo albums including 'Cry Tough' and 'Night After Night'. Co-founded the band Grin in the early 1970s, contributing to their rock sound. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the E Street Band, recognizing his contributions to rock music.
Continue ReadingFred Cone
American football player, Pro Bowl selection
Born
June 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 95 years old
Played as a placekicker in the National Football League for the Green Bay Packers and the New York Giants. Achieved recognition for proficiency in scoring, particularly in field goals and extra points. Participated in the NFL Pro Bowl, showcasing exceptional skills and contributions on the field. Contributed to his teams with reliable kicking abilities, impacting games throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJudy Holliday
American actress in 'Born Yesterday'
Born
June 21st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1965 60 years ago — 43 years old
An accomplished actress and singer, celebrated for significant contributions to American cinema and theatre. Starred in the original Broadway production of 'Born Yesterday', earning a Tony Award for her performance. Transitioned to film, achieving critical acclaim for the movie adaptation of 'Born Yesterday', which garnered an Academy Award for Best Actress. In addition to her film work, participated in various stage productions, showcasing remarkable versatility and talent.
Continue ReadingTibor Szele
Hungarian mathematician and scholar
Born
June 21st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1955 70 years ago — 36 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and set theory. Worked extensively on combinatorial set theory and made advances in the axiomatic foundations of mathematics. Published numerous papers, influencing mathematical research and education in Hungary. Also served as a professor, guiding students in advanced mathematical concepts.
Continue ReadingMona-Lisa Pursiainen
Finnish sprinter and Olympian
Born
June 21st, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 49 years old
Specialized in sprinting events and represented Finland in international competitions. Competed in the 1980 Summer Olympics held in Moscow, achieving significant recognition in track and field. Earned a national title in the 100 meters and participated in several European championships, contributing to Finnish athletics during the peak of her career.
Continue ReadingRockwell Kent
American painter and illustrator
Born
June 21st, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1971 54 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent painter and illustrator, contributed to American visual arts with bold landscapes and striking imagery. Worked extensively in various media, including oil painting, lithography, and illustration. Gained recognition for the illustrations in classic literature, marrying visual art with text. Involved in the Works Progress Administration, supporting artistic initiatives during the Great Depression. Travelled to remote locations that influenced artistic style, including Alaska and Greenland.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 27th
Niccolò Paganini
Violinist and composer, 24 Caprices
Born
October 27th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1840 185 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1782, this Italian violinist and composer became one of the most influential figures in Romantic music. Renowned for virtuosic technique and expressive playing, he gained fame for performances that dazzled audiences. Paganini composed numerous works for violin, including 24 Caprices for Solo Violin, which are pivotal in the violin repertoire and showcase technical prowess. Tours across Europe captivated listeners and built a reputation that often led to speculation about supernatural abilities. Health concerns and personal tragedies shaped later years, yet the legacy of compositions and performance style endured.
Continue ReadingMassimo Vignelli
Graphic Designer known for Vignelli Associates
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
An Italian-American graphic designer worked primarily in the fields of design, interior design, and architecture. Established Vignelli Associates in 1971, focusing on branding, corporate identity, and product design. Advocated for modernist design principles, emphasizing simplicity and usability. Renowned for the New York City Subway map redesign in 1972, which introduced a minimalist approach to transit mapping. Contributed to various projects for high-profile clients, producing distinctive furniture and product designs.
Continue ReadingGardner Dozois
Science fiction editor and author
Born
July 23rd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2018 7 years ago — 70 years old
Pioneered in the realm of science fiction as an editor and author. Edited the prestigious anthology series, 'The Year's Best Science Fiction', which has been published annually since 1984. Contributed numerous short stories, many of which received critical acclaim and award nominations, showcasing a deep understanding of the genre's evolution. Influenced science fiction literature through editorial work and mentorship to emerging writers. Accumulated various Hugo Awards over a prolific career in the field.
Continue ReadingLarry Kramer
Playwright and LGBT rights activist
Born
June 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2020 5 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent playwright and public health advocate, contributed significantly to the LGBT rights movement. Wrote the groundbreaking play 'The Normal Heart', which addressed the HIV/AIDS crisis and the lack of government response. Founded the Gay Men's Health Crisis, one of the first organizations to respond to the AIDS epidemic. Worked tirelessly to raise awareness and fight for the rights of those affected by HIV/AIDS through activism and advocacy.
Continue ReadingSimeon Daniel
Nevisian educator and politician
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
An educator and politician, served as the first Premier of Nevis. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Nevis during the latter half of the 20th century. Instrumental in the island's educational development and governance, shaping key policies that influenced local education and self-governance. Held office during critical transitions in Nevisian society, focusing on improving social services and governance structures.
Continue ReadingLuciano Berio
Italian composer of avant-garde music
Born
October 24th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2003 22 years ago — 77 years old
An influential composer and educator, this figure was a prominent figure in 20th-century music. Early in life, he studied at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan. His work spanned various musical styles, but he became particularly noted for enriching the avant-garde movement. A significant part of his career involved teaching at prominent institutions, imparting knowledge to the next generation of composers. His innovative compositions included works for solo instruments, ensembles, and larger orchestras, often integrating elements of electronic music. Collaborating with various artists and musicians, contributions to the development of new sound techniques were vital.
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