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
Tobey 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 267 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 ReadingDan Jurgens
Comic book writer and illustrator, Superman
Born
June 27th, 1959 66 years ago
An American author and illustrator, Jurgens has made significant contributions to the comic book industry, especially through work on superhero franchises. His tenure on Superman included pivotal story arcs that shaped the character's modern narrative. The character's death in 'The Death of Superman' storyline in 1992 received widespread acclaim and became a cultural phenomenon. Jurgens also contributed to the 'Justice League' and various other DC Comics titles, impacting the direction of superhero comics in the 1990s and beyond.
Continue ReadingPaul Mauser
German weapon designer, Gewehr 98 creator
Born
June 27th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
1914 112 years ago — 76 years old
A significant figure in weapon design, a German weapon designer developed the bolt-action rifle known as the Gewehr 98. This design played a crucial role in military applications during World War I and influenced modern firearm engineering. Mauser founded the Mauser Company, which became well-regarded for its firearms. The Gewehr 98 became the standard infantry rifle of the Imperial German Army, setting benchmarks for subsequent rifle designs.
Continue ReadingJoseph P. Allen
American physicist and astronaut
Born
June 27th, 1937 88 years ago
An American physicist and astronaut participated in two spaceflights. Completed missions aboard the Skylab space station and the Space Shuttle. Contributed to the scientific community with significant research in the field of physics and space exploration.
Continue ReadingMarion M. Magruder
American Marine officer, VMF(N)-533 commander
Born
June 27th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a Marine officer and commanded the VMF(N)-533 squadron during World War II. Participated in significant naval aviation operations and contributed to the development of night fighter tactics. Engaged in combat operations in the Pacific theater, showcasing leadership and tactical skills in aerial warfare.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 13th
P. F. Strawson
Philosopher and author of 'Individuals'
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2006 20 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to analytic philosophy, particularly in metaphysics and philosophy of language. Focused on understanding the nature of individual thought and reference. Published influential works, including 'Individuals', which explored concepts of identity and the structure of the self. Engaged with major philosophical problems regarding meaning and truth, influencing future discourse in the field. Played a fundamental role in shaping the conversation around ordinary language philosophy.
Continue ReadingNikolay Bogolyubov
Mathematician and physicist, statistical physics
Born
August 21st, 1909 116 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1992 34 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematical physics, particularly in statistical mechanics and quantum field theory. Developed methods for the study of many-body systems and contributed to the theory of superconductivity. His work in functional analysis and operator theory laid foundational approaches used in physics. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing future generations of mathematicians and physicists. Authored numerous scientific papers and several books, which continue to be referenced in contemporary research.
Continue ReadingLouise Cochrane
Screenwriter and producer of 'Annie'
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2012 14 years ago — 94 years old
A screenwriter and producer engaged in film and television, contributed significantly to the entertainment industry. Co-wrote the screenplay for the popular musical film 'Annie' released in 1982, which garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. Involved in various productions beyond 'Annie', shaping storylines and character development. Worked on adaptations that brought literary works to the screen, demonstrating a commitment to storytelling.
Continue ReadingFaith Bandler
Australian activist and author
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2015 11 years ago — 97 years old
An Australian activist and author, played a major role in advocating for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Contributed to the 1967 referendum that facilitated the inclusion of Indigenous Australians in the census. Authored several influential works, including 'Wrestling with the Angel', which examines her experiences and the struggles for rights. Worked with various organizations to promote social justice and equality throughout her career.
Continue ReadingWalt Whitman Rostow
American economist; National Security Advisor
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2003 23 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 7th United States National Security Advisor from 1966 to 1969. Contributed to the formulation of U.S. foreign policy during the Vietnam War era. Authored the book 'The Stages of Economic Growth: A Non-Communist Manifesto', which introduced the concept of stages of economic development. Engaged in academic work at prestigious institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Continue ReadingKim Jong-nam
North Korean politician, former heir apparent
Born
1971 55 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2017 9 years ago — 46 years old
An influential figure in North Korean politics, served as the eldest son of Kim Jong-il. Initially considered the successor to his father, faced political challenges and a growing rivalry with his younger brother Kim Jong-un. Lived in exile after falling out of favor, residing in several countries. Assassinated in 2017 at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, highlighting tensions within the North Korean regime.
Continue Reading