Kenneth Rexroth
American poet and translator
A prominent poet, translator, and academic, this individual significantly contributed to 20th-century American literature. Active in the influential San Francisco Poetry Renaissance, produced a body of work that combined personal experience with an interest in Eastern philosophy and spirituality. Worked on translations of classical Japanese poetry, bringing awareness of haiku to a wider audience. Engaged in literary criticism and was involved in leftist political movements throughout his career, fostering a dialogue on social issues through poetry and prose.
Published 'The Collected Poems'
Translated Japanese haiku
Participated in the San Francisco Poetry Renaissance
Other People Born on December 22nd
Fredrik Barth
Anthropologist and academic
Born
December 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old
A German-Norwegian anthropologist contributed significantly to the field of anthropology, particularly in the study of social organization, ethnicity, and cultural change. Barth's work involved extensive field research, especially among the Pashtun of Afghanistan and the communities of Norway. His influential book, 'Types of Social Organization,' provided important insights into the dynamics of ethnic groups and cultural interactions. Barth's approach to anthropological fieldwork emphasized the significance of social context and the roles of local actors. His academic career included a long tenure at the University of Bergen, where he played a critical role in shaping the anthropology department.
Continue ReadingEdwin Arlington Robinson
American poet and playwright
Born
December 22nd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1935 90 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent American poet and playwright, this figure gained recognition during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Influenced by the ideas of his contemporaries, the work exhibited a deep understanding of the human condition. Major publications included collections such as 'The Children of the Night' and 'The Man Against the Sky.' His poetry often explored themes of loss, existential angst, and small-town life, showcasing a profound emotional depth. Winning the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry on three occasions, this figure established a significant presence in American literature.
Continue ReadingDaBaby
American rapper and songwriter
Born
December 22nd, 1991 34 years ago
Raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, this artist gained prominence with the release of multiple mixtapes and a debut studio album. The album achieved commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart. His singles frequently topped charts, and collaborations with various artists further solidified his status in the music industry. The artist's distinctive style and energetic performances contributed to a strong fanbase, leading to numerous award nominations and wins.
Continue ReadingSteve Carlton
Baseball pitcher with multiple Cy Young Awards
Born
December 22nd, 1944 81 years ago
A professional baseball player, his major league career spanned from 1965 to 1988. Primarily played for the Philadelphia Phillies, contributing significantly to the team's success. Achieved notable recognition for his exceptional pitching skills, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. Earned four Cy Young Awards, becoming one of the few pitchers to achieve this accolade multiple times. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994, solidifying a legacy as one of the greatest left-handed pitchers in the history of the sport.
Continue ReadingLynne Thigpen
Actress known for 'Reading Rainbow'
Born
December 22nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2003 22 years ago — 54 years old
An American actress and singer, gained recognition for roles in theater, television, and film. Most notable role was as the teacher on the PBS children's program 'Reading Rainbow'. Appeared in various productions, showcasing talents in both acting and music. Received significant acclaim for her performances. Contributed to the entertainment industry with a career that spanned several decades.
Continue ReadingPeggy Ashcroft
English actress, renowned for 'The Home and the World'
Born
December 22nd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1991 34 years ago — 83 years old
An English actress with a prominent career in theater and film. Debuted in the 1920s and gained recognition for versatility in varied roles. Achieved acclaim for performances in productions such as 'The Home and the World' and 'The Seagull'. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the film 'Lilies of the Field'. Cultivated a strong association with the Royal Shakespeare Company and contributed significantly to British stage and cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 6th
Max Meldrum
Painter and educator, notable for art theory
Born
December 3rd, 1875 150 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1955 70 years ago — 79 years old
Born in Scotland and later moved to Australia, Meldrum established a reputation as a painter and educator. He contributed significantly to the art scene in Australia during the early 20th century. Meldrum developed a theory of aesthetics called the 'Meldrum Method', which emphasized the importance of tonal relationships and color harmony in painting. His works primarily featured landscapes and portraits, often capturing the essence of Australian light. Meldrum played a crucial role in the establishment of art education in Australia, influencing a generation of artists through his teachings and writings.
Continue ReadingHenri Vieuxtemps
Belgian violinist and composer
Born
February 17th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1881 144 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent violinist and composer, contributions included important works for the violin as well as chamber music compositions. Achieved recognition as a leading violin virtuoso of the 19th century. Gained acclaim through performances across Europe, forming an essential part of the Belgian musical landscape. Served as a professor at the Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles, influencing future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingBilly Preston
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
September 2nd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
June 6th, 2006 19 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent figure in the music industry, recognized for contributions as a singer-songwriter, pianist, and actor. Gained acclaim for work with artists such as The Beatles and Sly and the Family Stone. Achieved commercial success with hit singles like "Nothing from Nothing" and "Will It Go Round in Circles," both reaching the top of the charts. Served as a session musician for various renowned acts and participated in significant live performances, including the famous concert at Madison Square Garden in 1971 with George Harrison.
Continue ReadingJohn A. Macdonald
1st Prime Minister of Canada
Born
January 11th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1891 134 years ago — 76 years old
A Scottish-Canadian lawyer and politician, served as the first Prime Minister of Canada from 1867 to 1873 and again from 1878 until 1891. Played a key role in the Confederation of Canada and the establishment of the Dominion. Worked to expand the nation through the acquisition of territories and the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, connecting the east and west coasts. Implemented policies that shaped Canadian politics and governance during the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingJulian Byng
Field Marshal, Governor-General of Canada
Born
September 11th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1935 90 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a prominent British Army officer and politician. Held the ranks of major general and field marshal during military service. After notable participation in World War I, led the Canadian Corps at the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Later served as the 12th Governor-General of Canada from 1921 to 1926, where various initiatives aimed at strengthening ties between Britain and Canada were undertaken. Played a key role in the establishment of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Continue ReadingEsther Williams
Swimmer and actress in aquamusicals
Born
August 8th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
June 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1921, this individual gained recognition as both a competitive swimmer and a movie star. After showcasing remarkable talent in swimming competitions, transitioned to Hollywood and starred in a series of aquamusicals during the 1940s and 1950s. The career in film included roles in acclaimed productions such as 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game' and 'Million Dollar Mermaid'. Contributed to the popularity of synchronized swimming on screen, blending athleticism with entertainment, which led to further exploration of the aquatic performances. Retired from acting in the early 1960s but remained involved in swimming and water-related pursuits.
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