Koko
Western lowland gorilla and ASL user
Born
1971
55 years ago
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
A western lowland gorilla achieved prominence through the use of American Sign Language. Residing in captivity, facilitated communication with human caregivers and demonstrated cognitive abilities. Engaged in various studies aimed at understanding animal cognition and communication. Gained attention from the public and media, contributing to awareness of gorilla conservation.
Used over 1,000 signs in American Sign Language
Developed a deep bond with caretakers
Participated in behavioral research studies
Other People Who Died on June 19th
Gladys Spellman
American politician and educator
Born
March 1st, 1918 108 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1988 37 years ago — 70 years old
An educator and politician served in the U.S. Congress representing Maryland. Elected to the House of Representatives in 1975, played a role in various committees during tenure. Focused on educational issues and women's rights, contributing to legislative discussions. Contributed to initiatives improving educational access and funding. Her career in education preceded her political engagement, holding various positions within the local educational system.
Continue ReadingStanley Mosk
American lawyer and politician
Born
1912 114 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2001 24 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as a Supreme Court Justice for California from 1964 until 2001. Involved in various judicial reforms, including actions to improve access to justice and guardianship laws. Played a key role in several landmark cases relating to civil rights and government authority. Appointed by Governor Edmund G. Brown, contributed to shaping California's legal landscape for decades.
Continue ReadingGerry Goffin
American songwriter of pop classics
Born
February 11th, 1939 87 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in American music, contributed extensively as a songwriter during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated with Carole King, creating numerous hit songs. The partnership yielded a string of chart-topping records that became standards in pop music. Many songs received critical acclaim and gained recognition for their lyrical depth and melodic structure. Their work remains influential, impacting generations of artists across various genres.
Continue ReadingEthel Rosenberg
American spy in Cold War espionage
Born
September 28th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1953 72 years ago — 37 years old
Involved in Cold War espionage, facilitated the transmission of atomic secrets to the Soviet Union. Part of a conspiracy that included her husband, leading to their arrests and trial in 1951. The trial garnered significant media attention and public debate regarding the fairness of the proceedings and the death penalty. Executed in 1953, marking a controversial moment in American history related to espionage and civil rights.
Continue ReadingMatthäus Merian
Engraver and cartographer, Topographia Germaniae
Born
September 22nd, 1593 432 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1650 375 years ago — 56 years old
Engraving and cartography activities spanned 17th century Europe. Developed detailed maps and topographical views. Produced the influential series Topographia Germaniae, documenting cities and landscapes in Germany. Contributed significantly to the field of cartography with innovations in illustration techniques and visual representation of geography. Played a major role in the evolution of map-making through artistic rendering.
Continue ReadingMiguel Miramón
Unconstitutional President of Mexico
Born
September 29th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1867 158 years ago — 34 years old
Served as President of Mexico during the Second Mexican Empire. Focused on consolidating power and maintaining support for Emperor Maximilian I. Led military campaigns against Republican forces during the French intervention in Mexico. Despite initial successes, faced significant opposition and declining public support. Defeated in 1867, marking the end of the empire and restoration of the republic. After his defeat, fled the country and eventually returned to Mexico, where he continued to be involved in military and political affairs until his death.
Continue Reading