Lester Flatt
Bluegrass musician and songwriter
A prominent bluegrass singer-songwriter and musician, contributed significantly to the genre's development. Founded the legendary band, The Foggy Mountain Boys, alongside Earl Scruggs. Gained widespread recognition for the song "The Ballad of Jed Clampett," which served as the theme for the TV show 'The Beverly Hillbillies.' Recorded numerous albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing a distinctive style that blended traditional Appalachian music with contemporary influences. Influenced a generation of musicians and served as a key figure in defining bluegrass music.
Formed the band The Foggy Mountain Boys
Recorded 'The Ballad of Jed Clampett'
Released influential bluegrass albums
Other People Born on June 19th
Claudio Vargas
Dominican baseball pitcher
Born
June 19th, 1978 47 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher from 2003 to 2011. Teams included the Montreal Expos, Florida Marlins, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Notable for contributions to teams during playoff seasons. Competed in a total of 169 games in the major leagues, establishing a record for effective pitching opportunities.
Continue ReadingMildred Natwick
Actress in stage and film productions
Born
June 19th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1994 31 years ago — 89 years old
An accomplished actress with a career spanning several decades, particularly active in the mid-20th century. Achieved recognition for performances on stage and in film, showcasing a range of characters. Acted in the original Broadway production of 'The Country Girl' and appeared in films such as 'The Love Bug' and 'Barefoot in the Park'. Received multiple accolades for work, including a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play.
Continue ReadingMoa Hjelmer
Swedish sprinter, World Championships athlete
Born
June 19th, 1990 35 years ago
Competed in sprinting events at international levels. Primarily focused on the 200 meters and 4x100 meters relay. Participated in the 2013 World Championships, representing Sweden. Achieved national titles in sprinting disciplines and held top finishes in European competitions.
Continue ReadingAlajos Szokolyi
Hungarian physician and athlete
Born
June 19th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 61 years old
Attended the University of Vienna, earning a medical degree while excelling in athletics. Competed in the 110 meters hurdles and long jump, representing Hungary in various international competitions during the late 19th century. Participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris, showcasing talents in multiple events. Also contributed to the field of medicine after completing the athletic career.
Continue ReadingNick Drake
Singer-songwriter with three albums
Born
June 19th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1974 51 years ago — 26 years old
An English singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Released three albums: 'Five Leaves Left' in 1969, 'Bryter Layter' in 1970, and 'Pink Moon' in 1972. His music often featured introspective lyrics and intricate guitar work, which became influential in folk and alternative music circles. Struggled with depression and had limited commercial success during his lifetime, but gained significant posthumous recognition.
Continue ReadingBlaise Pascal
Mathematician and physicist, Pascal's Wager
Born
June 19th, 1623 402 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1662 363 years ago — 39 years old
Born in France in 1623, a mathematician and physicist contributed to geometry, probability theory, and fluid mechanics. Developed the Pascal's Triangle and made significant advancements in hydrodynamics. Invented the first mechanical calculator at the age of 19. Renowned for engaging in philosophical discourse, notably through the work 'Pensées', which addressed religious and existential issues. Pascal's Wager presents a compelling argument for belief in God based on cost-benefit analysis. His innovations laid groundwork for future scientific methods.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 11th
Robert Traylor
Basketball Player and NBA Draft Pick
Born
February 1st, 1977 48 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2011 14 years ago — 34 years old
An American basketball player, played college basketball for the University of Michigan. In 1998, selected 6th overall in the NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. Played professionally in various leagues, including the NBA, where he had stints with the Mavericks and the New Orleans Hornets. Also played internationally, contributing to teams in Spain and other countries. Traylor's college career included helping the Wolverines to a Final Four appearance.
Continue ReadingFloyd Patterson
Professional boxer and heavyweight champion
Born
January 4th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2006 19 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1935, this professional boxer became the youngest heavyweight champion at the age of 21 after a victory over Archie Moore in 1956. Over a career spanning two decades, won and lost the heavyweight title two times, defending it successfully against numerous challengers. Demonstrated remarkable agility and quickness in the ring, contributing to a unique fighting style that distinguished him in the sport. Renowned for notable matches against Ingemar Johansson, including a celebrated rematch that ended in a second-round knockout to regain the title in 1960. Transitioned into a career as a trainer and advocate for boxing after retirement.
Continue ReadingDoris Eaton Travis
American actress and dancer, Ziegfeld Follies
Born
March 14th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2010 15 years ago — 106 years old
Eaton Travis started a career in entertainment as a performer in the Ziegfeld Follies, showcasing her talents in singing and dancing. The performer was part of the legendary theatrical revue from the 1920s to the 1930s. Later, she became involved in film and television, appearing in various productions. Eaton Travis also worked in stage performances and contributed to the arts through her dance abilities.
Continue ReadingJohn Rutsey
Drummer for Rush and debut album creator
Born
July 23rd, 1952 73 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 55 years old
A Canadian drummer played a crucial role in the formation of the rock band Rush. Contributed to the band's self-titled debut album released in 1974. Departed from the band in 1975 due to health issues and was replaced by Neil Peart, who would become the band's iconic drummer. Although leaving early in Rush's career, established a significant presence in the band's initial sound.
Continue ReadingHorton Davies
Welsh minister and historian
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2005 20 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a minister in the United Kingdom and made significant contributions to Church history and theology. Authored multiple works on the history of Nonconformity and contributed to the understanding of the relationships between church and society in Wales. Played a crucial role in promoting the study of the Welsh chapel tradition.
Continue ReadingSusan Backlinie
American actress and stuntwoman
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
Significant contributions to film as an actress and stuntwoman included roles in classic horror films. Achievements in performing stunts and acting complemented work in the entertainment industry, particularly in the realm of horror cinema. Gained recognition for performances that showcased both acting and physical skills, influencing the portrayal of female characters in action sequences. Collaborated with prominent filmmakers and participated in various significant projects throughout a career that extended over several decades.
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