Marcel Reich-Ranicki
Literary critic and author of 'My Last Read'
A prominent literary critic and author, contributed significantly to the analysis of German literature. Worked as a critic for major publications, influencing literary discourse in Germany. Authored several books, with 'My Last Read' reflecting on personal readings and literary figures. Renowned for television appearances that made literature accessible to the general public. Received various accolades for contributions to literature and criticism.
Served as the literary critic for 'Die Zeit'
Authored 'My Last Read' reflecting on literature
Hosted a popular literature program on German television
Other People Born on June 2nd
Gary Bettman
NHL Commissioner during expansion era
Born
June 2nd, 1952 74 years ago
Served as the 14th Commissioner of the National Hockey League since 1993. Played a significant role in the growth of the NHL, overseeing multiple expansions and the introduction of new franchises. Implemented various changes and strategies to increase the popularity and visibility of ice hockey, including media deals and global outreach programs. Played a crucial part in the creation of the NHL salary cap and the implementation of rule changes aimed at improving the pace and scoring of games.
Continue ReadingTakijirō Ōnishi
Japanese admiral and pilot
Born
June 2nd, 1891 135 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1945 80 years ago — 54 years old
Served as a naval officer in the Imperial Japanese Navy. Participated in significant operations during World War II, including the attack on Pearl Harbor. Played a key role in the development of naval aviation in Japan and was a proponent of carrier-based operations. Served as commander of the aircraft carrier Shōkaku and later commanded the Carrier Division 1 during the Battle of Midway. Also contributed to the establishment of the Japanese kamikaze tactics later in the war.
Continue ReadingFelix Weingartner
Conductor and composer of classical music
Born
June 2nd, 1863 163 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1942 84 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1863, a Croatian-Austrian pianist, composer, and conductor, made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Conducted various renowned orchestras in Europe, including the Vienna Philharmonic and the Berlin Philharmonic. Composed numerous orchestral works and operas, often blending traditional and innovative styles. Had a notable career as a conductor during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing the interpretation of many classical compositions.
Continue ReadingNandan Nilekani
Indian businessman, co-founder of Infosys
Born
June 2nd, 1955 71 years ago
Co-founded Infosys, a multinational corporation providing business consulting, information technology, and outsourcing services. Played a critical role in establishing the company as a leader in the IT industry. Served as chairman of the Unique Identification Authority of India from 2009 to 2014, overseeing the implementation of the Aadhaar project, which aimed to provide a unique identification number to residents of India. Engaged in public policy and technology initiatives to improve governance and promote digital inclusion.
Continue ReadingLloyd Shapley
Mathematician and economist, Nobel laureate
Born
June 2nd, 1923 103 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2016 10 years ago — 92 years old
Contributions included the development of game theory and economic allocation mechanisms. Authored many influential papers and co-created the Shapley value, a solution concept for cooperative games that allocates payouts fairly among players based on their contributions. Worked on matching theory, which has applications in various fields including economics and market design. Shapley was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2012 for contributions to the analysis of economic processes.
Continue ReadingJuan Antonio Bardem
Spanish director and screenwriter
Born
June 2nd, 1922 104 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2002 23 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in Spanish cinema, this individual contributed significantly as a director and screenwriter. Known for engaging narrative styles and tackling social issues, the career spanned several decades, starting in the 1950s. The most notable works include 'Death of a Cyclist' and 'The Good Woman' which are characterized by their critical perspectives on societal norms. This individual also participated in vital film movements and was involved in the establishment of the Spanish film industry during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 18th
Kenny Wheeler
Jazz trumpet player and composer
Born
January 14th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent figure in jazz, contributed as a trumpet player and composer. Worked with various artists and bands, showcasing a unique style and approach to music. Released a series of acclaimed albums that highlighted innovative compositions. Collaborated with notable musicians including Keith Jarrett and Dave Holland, influencing modern jazz. Engaged in educational initiatives, sharing knowledge with aspiring musicians. His works remain a significant part of the jazz repertoire.
Continue ReadingAlan Watt
Diplomat and Ambassador to Japan
Born
April 13th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1988 37 years ago — 87 years old
A public servant and diplomat served as Australian Ambassador to Japan. Played a key role in strengthening bilateral relations between Australia and Japan during a critical period in post-war history. Worked to promote trade, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding between the two nations. Contributed to various diplomatic initiatives that fostered cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
Continue ReadingSafranbolulu Izzet Mehmet Pasha
Ottoman politician and Grand Vizier
Born
1743 283 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1812 213 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 186th Grand Vizier of the Ottoman Empire during the early 19th century. Oversaw various administrative and military reforms within the empire. Managed internal and external challenges facing the empire at the time. Played a significant role during a turbulent period marked by regional conflicts and the decline of the empire's influence.
Continue ReadingMauricio Kagel
Composer and scholar of contemporary music
Born
December 24th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Argentina and later moving to Germany, this composer contributed significantly to the avant-garde music scene. He studied musicology, performance, and composition, blending elements of theater and music in innovative ways. Some compositions incorporated multimedia elements, exploring the relationship between sound and visual art. This composer was a professor at various institutions, influencing future generations of musicians and composers. Notable works include 'Zwei Augen' and 'Transición,' showcasing a unique approach to contemporary classical music.
Continue ReadingJolidee Matongo
Politician, 97th Mayor of Johannesburg
Born
1975 51 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2021 4 years ago — 46 years old
Served as the 97th Mayor of Johannesburg from 2021 until death in September 2021. Before becoming mayor, held positions within the African National Congress and local government structures, contributing to various community initiatives and governance reforms. Participated actively in addressing issues such as housing, urban development, and social services during tenure. Worked on enhancing the delivery of basic services to residents in Johannesburg. His term was marked by a commitment to improve living conditions in the city.
Continue ReadingLindsay Cooper
Composer and musician, notable for film scores
Born
March 3rd, 1951 75 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 62 years old
Born in England, a composer and musician specialized in bassoon and oboe. Worked across multiple genres, including contemporary classical and music for film and theater. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to numerous projects in the progressive rock and avant-garde scenes. Contributed music to the film "The Last of England" and worked with the group Henry Cow, making significant contributions to their sound.
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