Leon Uris

American novelist and screenwriter

Leon Uris - American novelist and screenwriter
Born

August 3rd, 1924
101 years ago

Died

June 21st, 2003
22 years ago — 78 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

An American soldier and author, Uris wrote several bestselling novels that explore themes of war and conflict. His most notable works include 'Exodus', which tells the story of the founding of Israel, and 'QB VII', which revolves around a court case involving a Holocaust survivor. Uris's writing often drew upon his own experiences and historical research. He also served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II, which influenced his literary works. In addition to novels, Uris contributed to screenplays, bringing his stories to a wider audience through film adaptations.

Authored bestselling novel 'Exodus'

Wrote the novel 'QB VII'

Other People Born on August 3rd

Les Elgart

American trumpet player and bandleader
Born
August 3rd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1995 30 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent American trumpet player and bandleader, contributed significantly to the big band and jazz genres. Elgart became widely recognized for leading a successful dance band that enjoyed popularity in the 1940s and 1950s. The band produced several hit recordings, showcasing a unique style that blended jazz with pop music. The orchestral arrangements displayed a polished sound that appealed to a broad audience.

Continue Reading

Rod Beck

American baseball pitcher, 1999 All-Star
Born
August 3rd, 1968 57 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 2007 18 years ago — 38 years old

A professional baseball pitcher achieved success in Major League Baseball (MLB) during the 1990s and early 2000s. Played primarily for the San Francisco Giants and the Chicago Cubs, showcasing a powerful right arm. Notable for a distinguished career as a closer, featuring a unique delivery style and an imposing presence on the mound. Selected as an All-Star in 1999, contributing to teams with significant saves and strikeouts. Ended a notable career having played for several teams including the San Diego Padres and the Boston Red Sox.

Continue Reading

Zac Gallen

Baseball pitcher for Miami Marlins
Born
August 3rd, 1995 30 years ago

Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2019. Played for the Miami Marlins before joining the Arizona Diamondbacks. Recognized for strong pitching performance throughout seasons, including being selected for the All-Star Game. Known for exceptional strikeout rates and innings pitched, contributing significantly to team success.

Continue Reading

DJ Spinderella

DJ, rapper, producer from Salt-N-Pepa
Born
August 3rd, 1971 54 years ago

A prominent DJ, rapper, and producer, contributed significantly to the hip-hop genre. Gained recognition as a member of the hip-hop group Salt-N-Pepa, which achieved massive success in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The group was instrumental in popularizing female participation in hip-hop. Spinderella also ventured into acting and became involved in various entertainment projects, showcasing her versatility within the industry. Throughout her career, she demonstrated exceptional skills in mixing and live performances, earning respect in the music community. The work with Salt-N-Pepa included chart-topping hits and several awards.

Continue Reading

John Landis

Film director and producer of comedy classics
Born
August 3rd, 1950 75 years ago

An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Directed celebrated films such as 'Animal House' and 'The Blues Brothers'. Created the groundbreaking music video for Michael Jackson's 'Thriller', which is often hailed as a significant cultural moment in music history. Served as a prominent figure in Hollywood during the late 20th century, contributing significantly to the comedy genre and working with various notable actors.

Continue Reading

Konstantin Melnikov

Russian architect, designed Rusakov Club
Born
August 3rd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1890, an architect contributed significantly to Soviet architecture. Gained recognition for innovative designs characterized by geometric forms and functionality. Designed the Rusakov Workers' Club in Moscow, showcasing a distinctive use of space and light. Experimented with various materials and methods, influencing later architectural styles. Engaged in theoretical work, promoting the functionalist approach to architecture and modernism in the Soviet context.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 21st

Gustave Sandras

French gymnast and Olympic medalist
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1951 74 years ago — 79 years old

Competed in gymnastics at the 1900 Olympic Games in Paris. Achieved a silver medal in the team all-around event. Contributed to the development and popularization of gymnastics in France during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

James Chaney

Civil Rights Activist and Freedom Rider
Born
May 30th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1964 61 years ago — 21 years old

An American civil rights activist contributed to the fight against racial segregation and discrimination in the United States during the 1960s. Born in 1943, involvement in the civil rights movement began at a young age, participating in Freedom Rides and voter registration drives. In 1964, Chaney traveled to Mississippi to support the voter registration campaign as part of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). His disappearance and murder during this time highlighted the risks faced by civil rights activists and garnered national attention, serving as a catalyst for further activism and reform.

Continue Reading

Bert Kaempfert

Conductor and composer of pop music
Born
October 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1980 45 years ago — 56 years old

A German conductor and composer contributed to the popular music scene. Born on October 16, 1923, produced instrumental hits that blended orchestral sounds with popular music. Utilized innovative arrangements and techniques, influencing the genre significantly. Established a reputation through a distinctive style that combined elements of jazz, easy listening, and big band music. Created iconic works like 'Strangers in the Night' and 'Spanish Eyes', which gained widespread recognition. His compositions and arrangements led to a successful career that included numerous recordings and collaborations with various artists.

Continue Reading

Claude Farrère

French captain and author of novels
Born
1876 149 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1957 68 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a naval captain in the French Navy and wrote several acclaimed novels. Gained attention for depicting maritime life and the intricacies of human relationships. His literary works reflected experiences from his naval career and explorations. Some novels incorporated elements of adventure, romance, and historical themes. Farrère also became a member of the Académie Française, highlighting contributions to French literature.

Continue Reading

Gunther Schuller

Horn player and composer of opera
Born
November 22nd, 1925 99 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent horn player, composer, and conductor, focused on the development of American classical music. Collaborated with acclaimed artists and ensembles, contributing to both jazz and classical genres. Served as the music director of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and the Boston University Tanglewood Institute. Notable for the creation of operas and orchestral works that integrate diverse musical influences.

Continue Reading

Jaime Sin

Filipino cardinal and religious leader
Born
August 31st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1954 and became a bishop in 1976. Elevated to the position of cardinal in 1976, served as the Archbishop of Manila from 1974 until retirement in 2003. Played a significant role in the People Power Revolution in 1986, which led to the ousting of President Ferdinand Marcos. Advocated for social justice, human rights, and peace across various platforms. Contributed to the formulation of the Church's stance during political turmoil in the Philippines.

Continue Reading