Len Barker
Baseball player and coach, 1981 perfect game
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1976 to 1990. Teams included the Atlanta Braves, Cleveland Indians, and the Chicago White Sox. Achieved fame for throwing a perfect game on May 15, 1981, against the Toronto Blue Jays while with the Indians. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, contributing to the development of younger players.
Threw a perfect game in 1981
Played for the Cleveland Indians
Other People Born on July 7th
Rettamalai Srinivasan
Indian politician and social reformer
Born
July 7th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
1945 81 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1859, a significant figure in Indian politics and social reform. Focused on issues of caste and education, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Worked towards improving the status of the untouchables in society. Founded the Adi Dravida Mahajana Sangam to promote social equality and empowerment. Contributed to the establishment of educational institutions aimed at uplifting underprivileged groups. Played a crucial role in the social reform movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emphasizing the importance of education and community organization.
Continue ReadingToivo Kuula
Finnish conductor and composer
Born
July 7th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1918 108 years ago — 35 years old
A prominent Finnish conductor and composer, contributed significantly to the early 20th-century classical music scene in Finland. Studied music in Helsinki and later in Berlin. Conducted the Finnish National Opera and composed a variety of works, including orchestral pieces, chamber music, and choral works. His compositions often reflect Finnish folklore and cultural themes. Served as a military officer during the Finnish Civil War. Played a key role in the development of Finnish music education and the promotion of Finnish composers. Tragically killed during the Finnish War of Independence.
Continue ReadingMary Ford
Singer and guitarist with Les Paul
Born
July 7th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1977 48 years ago — 53 years old
An American singer and guitarist, contributed significantly to the genre of pop and country music. Collaborated extensively with husband Les Paul, creating a unique sound that combined electric guitar with vocal harmonies. Instrumental in popularizing multi-track recording, allowing for innovative musical compositions. Gained recognition in the 1950s with hit songs that showcased technical prowess and musicality.
Continue ReadingAnton Karas
Austrian zither player and composer
Born
July 7th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 79 years old
Born in Austria, a zither player and composer gained prominence with the score for the film 'The Third Man' in 1949. The haunting theme became iconic, defining the sound of post-war Vienna. Karas's work in the film showcased the zither's unique sound and inspired a resurgence of interest in the instrument. Later, he performed internationally, contributing to the appreciation of Austrian folk music through his compositions and performances. His music influenced various artists and continues to be celebrated.
Continue ReadingLudwig Ganghofer
German author and playwright of nature novels
Born
July 7th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1920 106 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent author and playwright emerged from Germany, celebrated for contributions to literature that focus on nature and rural life. Ganghofer's works often reflect an appreciation for the German landscape, particularly the Bavarian region. He gained popularity through novels that illustrate the connection between humanity and nature. The novel 'Der achtete Mann' showcases his storytelling ability, while his plays gained recognition for their thematic depth. His writings played a significant role in the naturalist movement in German literature.
Continue ReadingJohn Leverett
Governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony
Born
July 7th, 1616 409 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1679 346 years ago — 62 years old
Served as a general and politician during the early colonial period in New England. Held the position of 19th Governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, contributing to the development and governance of the colony. Participated in military campaigns against Native American tribes. Oversaw significant events during his tenure, including interactions with other colonies and the management of local resources. His leadership helped shape the early political landscape of Massachusetts.
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