Medgar Evers
Civil Rights Activist and Soldier
Served in the United States Army during World War II. Became a prominent civil rights activist in Mississippi. Worked as the state’s first NAACP secretary, focusing on voter registration and desegregation. Organized boycotts and protests demanding equal rights for African Americans. Assassinated in 1963, his death catalyzed national attention for the civil rights movement.
Served in the U.S. Army during WWII
Promoted voter registration for African Americans
Led desegregation efforts in Mississippi
Assassinated in 1963, becoming a civil rights martyr
Other People Born on July 2nd
Wilhelm Cuno
Chancellor of Germany during turmoil
Born
July 2nd, 1876 150 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1933 93 years ago — 56 years old
Served as Chancellor of Germany from 1922 to 1923 during a period marked by political and economic challenges. Cuno was a lawyer by training and initially entered politics through the German National People's Party. His government faced hyperinflation and social unrest, leading to significant instability. Cuno's administration adopted various measures to address the economic crisis and sought to stabilize the political situation. After stepping down, Cuno continued to be involved in politics and international diplomacy until his death in 1933.
Continue ReadingVince Staples
Rapper and actor; known for 'Big Fish Theory'
Born
July 2nd, 1993 33 years ago
Born in 1993, this rapper and actor emerged from Long Beach, California. The music career began with the release of debut EP 'Hell Can Wait' in 2014, showcasing a distinctive style and lyrical depth. Gained significant attention and acclaim with the release of 'Summertime '06' in 2015, reflecting personal experiences and societal issues. 'Big Fish Theory' followed in 2017, further establishing artistic innovation within the hip-hop genre. In addition to music, involvement in television projects included appearances in the series 'The Eric Andre Show' and the Netflix film 'The After Party.'
Continue ReadingPolly Holliday
American actress from 'Alice'
Born
July 2nd, 1937 89 years ago
Born in 1937, an American actress gained prominence for playing the character Flo in the television series 'Alice'. The character became iconic for the catchphrase 'Kiss my grits!' and contributed significantly to the show's success. Holliday also had notable roles in films and other television series, showcasing her talent beyond just one role. Throughout her career, she appeared in various productions, bringing characters to life with her distinctive style and charm.
Continue ReadingWilliam Henry Bragg
Physicist, chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
July 2nd, 1862 164 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1942 84 years ago — 79 years old
Significant contributions were made to the field of X-ray crystallography. Developed Bragg's Law alongside his son, which describes the relationship between the angles of incident and diffractedX-rays. This work laid the foundation for the analysis of crystal structures. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1915 for his work in this area. Served as a professor at the University of Leeds and later at the Royal Institute of Great Britain, where advancements in physics and chemistry were fostered.
Continue ReadingRon Silver
Actor and director in 'Chicago Fire'
Born
July 2nd, 1946 80 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2009 17 years ago — 62 years old
An accomplished actor and director with a career spanning several decades. Gained significant recognition for performances in television and film, including roles in 'The West Wing' and 'Chicago Fire.' Silver had a notable presence on stage, winning a Tony Award for his performance in 'Brighton Beach Memoirs.' In addition to acting, he directed and produced various projects, showcasing his talent behind the scenes. He also had a role in shaping political discourse through his public appearances and discussions.
Continue ReadingRyan Murphy
American swimmer with Olympic gold medals
Born
July 2nd, 1995 31 years ago
Competed in swimming events for the United States, specializing in backstroke and individual medley. Achieved three gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics, winning the 100m backstroke, 200m backstroke, and 200m individual medley. Added a bronze medal in the 4x100m medley relay. Established a reputation as one of the top swimmers in the country, setting multiple American records in backstroke events. Persistently contributed to the team events in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 12th
Jon Hiseman
English drummer with Colosseum fame
Born
June 21st, 1944 82 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2018 8 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent drummer in the British progressive rock and jazz genres, contributions included founding the band Colosseum, which formed in 1968. The band released several notable albums, with 'Valentyne Suite' being a significant work that showcased innovative jazz-rock fusion. Hiseman also played with other influential musicians and bands throughout his career, including the groups Tempest and the band’s latter incarnation, Colosseum II. His style influenced many drummers in the jazz and rock scenes during the late twentieth century.
Continue ReadingGuo Moruo
Chinese historian and poet
Born
November 16th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1978 48 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of history and literature in China. Served as a prominent figure in the Chinese literary scene and was involved in the early years of the Communist Party. Worked as a historian and played a vital role in editing many historical texts. Authored numerous poems and essays, blending traditional Chinese literary forms with modern themes. Held various government positions, including the role of president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Continue ReadingFrank Walker
Australian politician and attorney general
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2012 14 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 41st Attorney General of New South Wales. Held the position from 1995 to 1999. Engaged in various legal reforms during tenure. Involved in local government and politics for several decades prior to appointment as Attorney General.
Continue ReadingMiroslav Dvořák
Czech ice hockey player & Olympian
Born
October 11th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2008 18 years ago — 56 years old
A Czech ice hockey player who competed in international tournaments. Represented Czechoslovakia in the Winter Olympics, achieving a silver medal in 1976. Played for HC Slovan Bratislava, gaining recognition for contributions to the team's success during the 1970s.
Continue ReadingGyörgy Ligeti
Hungarian-Austrian composer of avant-garde music
Born
May 28th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2006 20 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1923, this composer contributed significantly to contemporary classical music. Studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest. Emigrated to the West in 1956, settling in Austria. Worked with various forms of music, including orchestral, choral, and chamber compositions. Influenced by multiple musical styles and integrated complex rhythms and textures into works. Achieved recognition for compositions such as "Atmosphères," "Lux Aeterna," and the opera "Le Grand Macabre."
Continue ReadingHermann Scherchen
Conductor and viola player in classical music
Born
June 21st, 1891 135 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1966 60 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent conductor and viola player, contributed significantly to classical music throughout his career. Conducted orchestras in numerous prestigious venues and festivals, promoting contemporary compositions alongside classical masterpieces. Established a reputation for innovative interpretations and dedication to the works of major composers. Alongside conducting, performed extensively as a viola soloist, showcasing talent and skill in both chamber and orchestral music.
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