Lillian Hellman
Playwright with acclaimed work 'The Little Foxes'
A playwright and screenwriter, contributed significantly to American theater in the 20th century. Wrote several acclaimed plays, including 'The Little Foxes' and 'The Children's Hour.' Worked as a screenwriter in Hollywood, adapting her plays into successful film productions. Hellman's works often focused on themes of morality, injustice, and personal ethics. She faced political scrutiny during her career due to her leftist beliefs and wartime activities. Hellman received multiple awards for her contributions to theater.
Wrote 'The Little Foxes'
Wrote 'The Children's Hour'
Won the Drama Critics' Circle Award
Other People Born on June 20th
Simin Behbahani
Iranian poet and activist
Born
June 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Tehran, this poet became an influential figure in contemporary Persian literature. With a career spanning several decades, contributions included extensive poetry collections and numerous social activism efforts. Works often addressed themes of women’s rights and freedom. Her poetry was characterized by traditional styles infused with modern perspectives. International literary recognition came alongside advocacy for civil rights in Iran, particularly during political upheavals. Behbahani received numerous accolades both in Iran and globally for her literary contributions, including the title of 'Lioness of Iran.'
Continue ReadingBob King
High jumper and obstetrician
Born
June 20th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1965 61 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1906, this individual excelled as a high jumper and pursued a successful career in obstetrics. Participated in the 1932 Summer Olympics, representing the United States in athletics. After retirement from competitive sports, transitioned into medicine, contributing to the field of obstetrics.
Continue ReadingIlan Ramon
Israeli astronaut and space shuttle pilot
Born
June 20th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 49 years old
An Israeli colonel and fighter pilot, entered NASA's astronaut program in 1998. Flew on the STS-107 mission aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003. This mission included scientific experiments and educational outreach. Tragically, Columbia disintegrated during re-entry on February 1, 2003, resulting in the loss of all seven crew members.
Continue ReadingDolores "LaLa" Brooks
American pop singer with The Crystals
Born
June 20th, 1947 78 years ago
Originated from New York City, a prominent pop singer rose to fame in the early 1960s as a member of The Crystals. The group gained recognition for its hit songs that contributed to the sound of the era. The harmonious blend of voices and distinctive style captured the attention of audiences across the United States. Their most notable song, 'He's a Rebel,' topped the Billboard charts, solidifying their place in music history. Following her time with the group, continued to perform and contribute to the music scene, showcasing talent in various settings.
Continue ReadingAnnik Van den Bosch
Belgian politician and public servant
Born
June 20th, 1971 54 years ago
Born in Belgium, an accomplished politician participated actively in national politics. Completed a degree in political science before embarking on a career in public service. Engaged in various legislative initiatives aimed at improving social welfare and education. Served as a member of the Belgian Parliament, contributing to debates and policy-making processes. Advocated for sustainable development and transparency in government affairs.
Continue ReadingJacques Saly
French painter and sculptor, famous works
Born
June 20th, 1717 308 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1776 249 years ago — 58 years old
Worked primarily in France during the 18th century, focusing on sculpture and painting. Specialized in creating decorative sculptures and was a significant figure in the academic art scene. Contributed to various projects, including the decoration of public buildings. His artistry was influenced by the prevailing style of the time, which emphasized grandeur and classical themes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 30th
Æthelred
Archbishop of Canterbury, religious leader
Died
June 30th, 888 1137 years ago — None years old
Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury during the late 9th century. Oversaw church affairs and provided spiritual guidance to the Anglo-Saxon community. Played a pivotal role in the development of the church in England, fostering its relationship with the monarchy and influencing ecclesiastical policies. His tenure contributed to the stability of church leadership during a time of political strife.
Continue ReadingAleksander Tõnisson
Estonian general and Minister of War
Born
April 17th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1941 84 years ago — 66 years old
This individual served as a general and politician in Estonia, significantly influencing the military landscape of the country. As the 5th Minister of War, handled military affairs during the crucial early years of Estonia's independence. Played a vital role in the organization and establishment of the Estonian Defense Forces during the War of Independence. Contributed to shaping Estonia's national defense policies in the post-war period, fostering military infrastructure and training programs.
Continue ReadingErnst Marcus
Zoologist known for developmental biology
Born
June 8th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1968 57 years ago — 75 years old
A German zoologist contributed significantly to the field of developmental biology. Research focused primarily on the embryology of marine organisms, studying the development processes in various species. Served as a professor at the University of Tübingen and conducted extensive studies on the evolution of developmental patterns in animals. Published numerous papers that advanced understanding of embryonic development and contributed to the broader field of evolutionary biology.
Continue ReadingErentrude
Frankish abbess and church leader
Died
June 30th, 710 1315 years ago — None years old
Served as the abbess of the convent at Nonnberg in the early 8th century. Played a significant role in promoting Christian monastic life in the Frankish territories. Contributed to the development of women's religious communities during this period. Established connections with influential figures in the ecclesiastical hierarchy.
Continue ReadingGeorgi Asparuhov
Bulgarian footballer and club legend
Born
May 4th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1971 54 years ago — 28 years old
One of Bulgaria's most celebrated footballers, played primarily as a forward. Spent the majority of his career with CSKA Sofia, contributing to the team’s significant successes in domestic and European competitions. Gained recognition for exceptional skills and goal-scoring ability. Participated in international competitions, representing Bulgaria in the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup. Tragically passed away at a young age but left a lasting legacy in Bulgarian football.
Continue ReadingAlcide d'Orbigny
Zoologist and Palaeontologist
Born
September 6th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1857 168 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent zoologist, palaeontologist, and geologist, contributions spanned the study of Cephalopoda and fossil mollusks. Conducted extensive fieldwork across South America, classifying numerous species and geological formations. Developed the concept of biological provinces based on regional fauna and flora, influencing future biogeography. Authored significant works, including 'Paléontologie Française,' detailing fossiliferous formations in France.
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