Lucille Clifton
Poet and author of 'Blessing the Boats'
A significant figure in American poetry, this poet's work frequently addressed themes of race, gender, and family. She published numerous collections, including 'Good Woman: Poems and a Memoir 1969-1980' and 'Blessing the Boats: New and Selected Poems.' This poet received various awards throughout her career, including the Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize. Teaching roles included positions at several institutions, contributing to literature and education.
Published over a dozen poetry collections
Won the National Book Award for Poetry
Received the Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize
Other People Born on June 27th
Julia Duffy
American actress, starred in Newhart
Born
June 27th, 1951 74 years ago
An actress recognized for work in television and film. Gained prominence through the role of Stephanie Vanderkellen on the television series Newhart, which aired from 1982 to 1990. Also appeared in the series Designing Women and had recurring roles in other popular shows. Acted in various films including In the Spirit and the television movie The Christmas Gift.
Continue ReadingSunanda Pushkar
Businesswoman and entrepreneur
Born
June 27th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 51 years old
Owned and operated a successful event management business. Actively involved in philanthropic activities, especially focusing on health and education. Gained public attention through marriage to a prominent politician. Participated in various social initiatives, raising awareness and funds for cancer treatment and education.
Continue ReadingDixie Brown
British boxer and welterweight champion
Born
June 27th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 57 years old
Competed as a professional boxer during the early to mid-20th century. Achieved prominence in the welterweight division and held the British Welterweight Title. Participated in many bouts, showcasing skills and earning recognition within the boxing community. His career included significant matches that contributed to the popularity of the sport in Britain.
Continue ReadingTobey Maguire
Actor in Spider-Man and other films
Born
June 27th, 1975 50 years ago
Born in 1975, an American actor gained prominence through roles in films such as 'Spider-Man' (2002), 'Spider-Man 2' (2004), and 'Spider-Man 3' (2007). The portrayal of Peter Parker established a benchmark for superhero films. In addition to the Spider-Man series, appeared in 'The Cider House Rules' (1999) and 'Seabiscuit' (2003), receiving acclaim for performances. Voiced a lead character in the animated film 'The Boss Baby' (2017). Served as a producer on several projects, including the film '85 South: The Movie' (2020).
Continue ReadingWilliam Pepperrell
American merchant and soldier, colonial leader
Born
June 27th, 1696 329 years ago
Died
1759 266 years ago — 63 years old
Born in Massachusetts, played a significant role during the colonial era as both a merchant and a soldier. Gained prominence for leadership during King George's War, particularly for the successful siege of Louisbourg in 1745. Achieved the rank of Major General and served as a key figure in colonial military affairs. This involvement showcased strategic military capabilities and established a foundation for future colonial defense initiatives. Contributed to the economic development of the region through commerce and military procurement.
Continue ReadingPatrick Sercu
Belgian cyclist and six-time world champion
Born
June 27th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent cyclist in the 1960s and 1970s, achieved significant success in track and road cycling. Won the World Road Race Championship in 1966 and earned six World Championship titles in the individual pursuit event. Competed in the Tour de France multiple times, securing several stage victories and earning a reputation as a strong sprinter. Retired from competitive cycling in the late 1970s, later involved in cycling administration and coaching.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 13th
Provo Wallis
Admiral, naval commander of the 19th century
Born
1791 234 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1892 133 years ago — 101 years old
A naval officer from Canada who served in the Royal Navy during the 19th century. Wallis participated in significant naval operations including the capture of the Chinese port of Canton during the Second Opium War. He commanded various ships and held several important positions throughout his career, eventually rising to the rank of admiral. Wallis's naval contributions played a role in the expansion of British influence in Asia and he was involved in various engagements that showcased British naval power during a period of imperial expansion.
Continue ReadingCharles X Gustav
King of Sweden, Treaty of Westphalia
Born
1622 403 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1660 365 years ago — 38 years old
Became the king of Sweden in 1654 and ruled until 1660. His reign was marked by military engagements during the Second Northern War against Poland and Denmark. Initiated the Swedish invasion of Poland in 1655 to support the Protestant cause. Played a significant role in the Treaty of Westphalia, which expanded Swedish territories in the region. Reformed the Swedish military and strengthened its naval capabilities. Increased Sweden's influence in Northern Europe during his reign.
Continue ReadingAndronikos II Palaiologos
Byzantine Emperor and scholar
Born
March 25th, 1259 766 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1332 693 years ago — 72 years old
Ruled as Byzantine Emperor from 1282 to 1328. Oversaw significant cultural and economic challenges during the late Byzantine period. Engaged in conflicts with the Ottoman Empire which weakened the Byzantine territories. Encouraged scholarly pursuits and patronized the arts, contributing to the renaissance of Byzantine culture. His reign marked a decline in imperial power and territorial losses, setting the stage for the eventual fall of Constantinople.
Continue ReadingHonorius II
Pope of the Catholic Church
Born
February 9th, 1060 965 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1130 895 years ago — 70 years old
Elected pope in 1124, presided over the Catholic Church during a period marked by political and religious challenges. Worked to strengthen the authority of the papacy amid conflicts with various rulers. Faced opposition from the Patarines, a reformist movement in Milan, and dealt with the issues surrounding the Investiture Controversy, which involved the appointment of bishops. Contributed to the development of canon law and the Church's organizational structures.
Continue ReadingCharles Gravier
French Foreign Minister during American Revolution
Born
1717 308 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1787 238 years ago — 70 years old
Served as Foreign Minister of France from 1776 until death in 1787. Played a crucial role in securing French support for the American colonies during the American Revolutionary War. Worked to establish alliances that would weaken British power and enhance French interests. Influenced French foreign policy through strategic diplomacy, fostering relationships with various European powers. Served prior as a diplomat in various capacities, particularly in Sweden and Prussia.
Continue ReadingMariano José de Larra
Spanish journalist and author
Born
March 24th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1837 188 years ago — 27 years old
A prominent figure in 19th-century Spanish literature and journalism, this individual became a voice for the Romantic movement in Spain. His works, both essays and journalism, addressed social and political issues of the time, often reflecting a deep critique of Spanish society. Noteworthy writings include 'El Don Juan' and 'La muerta de un hombre honrado', which exemplify literary talent and sharp social commentary. The profound sense of despair about the Spanish condition colored much of the personal and professional life, leading to untimely death at a young age.
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