Martino Martini

Italian missionary and historian

Martino Martini - Italian missionary and historian
Born

September 20th, 1614
410 years ago

Died

June 6th, 1661
363 years ago — 46 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Italy

Links & References

Born in 1614, this Italian missionary and cartographer contributed significantly to the understanding of China and its geography. Spending years in China, he produced important maps and writings that provided insight into the culture and geography of the region. His work included the 'Atlas Sinensis,' which detailed various aspects of Chinese society and geography. Martini served as a key figure in the dissemination of knowledge about China in Europe during the 17th century.

Authored 'Atlas Sinensis'

Mapped Chinese geography

Other People Born on September 20th

Kristen Johnston

Actress from 3rd Rock from the Sun
Born
September 20th, 1967 57 years ago

An American actress gained recognition for roles in television and film. Best known for portraying Sally Solomon on the sitcom 3rd Rock from the Sun, the performance earned two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. In addition to this role, appeared in film projects such as Jerry Maguire and Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. Johnston's work extended to voice acting and stage performances, contributing to her reputation in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Red Auerbach

Basketball coach and NBA championship winner
Born
September 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2006 18 years ago — 89 years old

Auerbach served as a coach and executive in professional basketball, primarily with the Boston Celtics. Coach tenure spanned from 1950 to 1966, leading the team to nine NBA championships. Transitioned to a front office role, contributing to the Celtics' legacy. Auerbach's influence extended into team management and player development, establishing the franchise as a dominant force in the league.

Continue Reading

Nuno Bettencourt

Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Extreme
Born
September 20th, 1966 58 years ago

Guitarist and songwriter gained recognition in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a member of the rock band Extreme. The band’s hit song 'More Than Words' achieved significant commercial success and received critical acclaim. Bettencourt's guitar work is noted for its technical proficiency and incorporation of various styles, blending rock, funk, and jazz elements. In addition to work with Extreme, collaborated with numerous artists across different genres and contributed to soundtracks. His musicianship and songwriting skills have garnered a dedicated following within the music community.

Continue Reading

Sergei Bobrovsky

Ice hockey player, Vezina Trophy winner
Born
September 20th, 1988 36 years ago

Born in 1988, this ice hockey player experienced success primarily in the National Hockey League (NHL). Playing as a goaltender, he began his career in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) before moving to the NHL. Notable teams include the Philadelphia Flyers and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Achieved significant acclaim for outstanding performances in net, earning multiple awards for exceptional performance during the regular season and playoffs.

Continue Reading

Gogi Grant

American singer with popular hits
Born
September 20th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 92 years old

Rose to prominence in the 1950s as a pop singer. Achieved significant success with the hit single 'The Wayward Wind', which topped the charts and earned widespread acclaim. Gogi Grant's career spanned several decades, featuring performances on major television shows and recordings that resonated with audiences. The artist's smooth vocals and emotive delivery defined her style, contributing to the evolution of popular music in that era.

Continue Reading

Matthew Nelson

Singer-songwriter and bass player
Born
September 20th, 1967 57 years ago

An American singer-songwriter and bass player, recognized for contributions to the music industry primarily in the 1990s. Performed with the band Nelson, which includes his twin brother, and achieved commercial success with the album 'After the Rain'. The band's music features a blend of rock and pop elements, characterized by melodic hooks and harmonies. Besides band activities, engaged in solo music projects and collaborations, showcasing versatility as a songwriter and performer.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 6th

Tom Phillis

Motorcycle racer, Isle of Man TT winner
Born
April 9th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1962 62 years ago — 28 years old

Competed in motorcycle racing primarily in the 1950s. Achieved significant success in the Isle of Man TT races, with a notable win in 1954. Also raced in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing events and became the first Australian to win a World Championship race in 1954. Phillis's career was marked by his skill and competitive spirit on the track, making contributions to the sport during a transformative period.

Continue Reading

Louis Chevrolet

Race car driver and automotive founder
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1941 83 years ago — 63 years old

A race car driver and businessman, founded the Chevrolet automobile brand and the Frontenac Motor Corporation. Immigrated to the United States from Switzerland and gained recognition in the early 20th century for racing achievements. Competed in the Indianapolis 500, finishing as high as third place. Eventually transitioned into automotive manufacturing, creating a legacy within the American automotive industry.

Continue Reading

Julian Byng

Field Marshal, Governor-General of Canada
Born
September 11th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1935 89 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a prominent British Army officer and politician. Held the ranks of major general and field marshal during military service. After notable participation in World War I, led the Canadian Corps at the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Later served as the 12th Governor-General of Canada from 1921 to 1926, where various initiatives aimed at strengthening ties between Britain and Canada were undertaken. Played a key role in the establishment of the Royal Canadian Legion.

Continue Reading

Henri Vieuxtemps

Belgian violinist and composer
Born
February 17th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1881 143 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent violinist and composer, contributions included important works for the violin as well as chamber music compositions. Achieved recognition as a leading violin virtuoso of the 19th century. Gained acclaim through performances across Europe, forming an essential part of the Belgian musical landscape. Served as a professor at the Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles, influencing future generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Yves Klein

French painter of monochrome works
Born
April 28th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1962 62 years ago — 34 years old

An influential figure in the post-war art movement, this painter developed a distinctive style characterized by bold colors and innovative techniques. In 1956, he created the International Klein Blue, a deep shade of ultramarine that became signature to his work. The artist’s practice included performance art as well as the use of fire and water in his creative processes, establishing a connection between visual art and physical experience. His work challenged traditional perceptions of art and materiality, solidifying a legacy that would influence generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Viktor Korchnoi

Chess player, 1974 World Chess Championship runner-up
Born
March 23rd, 1931 93 years ago
Died
June 6th, 2016 8 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent chess player, noted for competitive play spanning several decades. Achieved international acclaim as a contender in multiple World Chess Championships, particularly in 1974 against Anatoly Karpov. Contributed to chess literature through several books analyzing openings and endgames. Emigrated from the Soviet Union to Switzerland in the 1970s, influencing the chess community and promoting chess education.

Continue Reading