Michael Schwerner
American civil rights activist

Born
November 6th, 1939
85 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1964
61 years ago — 24 years old
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
United States
Links & References
An American civil rights activist advocated for racial equality and social justice. Schwerner was involved in efforts to integrate schools and support voting rights for African Americans in the South during the Civil Rights Movement. In 1964, he helped organize the Freedom Summer campaign in Mississippi, which aimed to increase voter registration among African Americans. Schwerner, along with two other activists, was murdered by members of the Ku Klux Klan while working to register black voters. His death drew national attention to the struggles faced by civil rights workers and spurred legislative action.
Organized Freedom Summer in 1964
Advocated for voting rights in Mississippi
Murdered by the Ku Klux Klan
Other People Born on November 6th
Erik Lund
A professional footballer from Sweden, played predominantly as a defender. Had a significant career in Allsvenskan, the top tier of Swedish football, representing clubs such as Malmö FF and Örebro SK. Contributed to team successes in domestic leagues, showcasing strong defensive skills and game awareness. Known for making an impact in various Swedish cup competitions and gaining recognition for consistency on the field over several seasons.
Continue ReadingTony Canzoneri
Achieved recognition as a professional boxer in the lightweight division. Held the World Lightweight Championship title multiple times in the 1930s. Initially turned professional in 1926 and quickly established a reputation in the boxing community. Competed against notable opponents throughout his career, building a strong record. Ultimately retired in 1939 with a legacy as one of the prominent boxers of his era.
Continue ReadingJohn Philip Sousa
This individual served as the conductor of the U.S. Marine Band and later formed his own band, which toured extensively. Notable compositions include 'The Stars and Stripes Forever,' which became the national march of the United States. Sousa was influential in popularizing the concert band tradition and is credited with composing numerous military marches.
Continue ReadingDay'Ron Sharpe
Born in 2001, this basketball player gained recognition during a successful collegiate career at the University of North Carolina, where he showcased skills as a center. Selected in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft, the player joined the Brooklyn Nets, contributing to the team's efforts in the Eastern Conference. Known for strong rebounding and defensive capabilities, he quickly became a reliable presence in the paint. His performance during his rookie season demonstrated significant potential for growth in professional basketball.
Continue ReadingDerrick Bell
An American scholar, author, and critical race theorist. Developed the concept of interest convergence, which posits that racial justice only advances when it converges with the interests of white people. Served as the first tenured African American professor at Harvard Law School. Authored significant works including 'Faces at the Bottom of the Well' and 'Space Traders', which critically explored race relations and social justice. Bell's career was marked by a commitment to civil rights and legal education.
Continue ReadingPhilip I
Ruled as Landgrave of Hesse from 1500 until death in 1567. Played a significant role in the early Protestant Reformation, aligning with Martin Luther. Established Hesse as a prominent center for Reformation thought and practice. Engaged in territorial military campaigns and economic reforms that increased his territory's influence in the Holy Roman Empire. His governance contributed to the political landscape of 16th-century Germany.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 21st
Alan Hovhaness
Born in 1911, this Armenian-American composer produced a significant body of work that ranges from symphonies to choral compositions. Trained at the New England Conservatory of Music, focused on incorporating Eastern and Western musical elements. Achieved prominence with the release of over 60 symphonies and many chamber works. Aspiring to represent spiritual themes through music, collaborated with various performers throughout his career. The music shows influences from his Armenian heritage, reflecting experiences and cultural motifs within compositions. Continued to create music until his passing in 2000.
Continue ReadingScott Kalitta
A professional drag racer, competed in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) series. Achieved significant success in Top Fuel drag racing, garnering multiple event wins throughout a career spanning two decades. Suffered a tragic accident while participating in a qualifying event at the Englishtown Raceway Park in New Jersey, leading to a widespread mourning within the motorsports community.
Continue ReadingAnders Jonas Ångström
Born in 1814, a physicist and astronomer contributed significantly to the understanding of light and spectroscopy. Ångström developed a method for measuring the wavelengths of spectral lines. He created the spectral classification system and was the first to accurately measure ultraviolet and infrared light. His work laid the foundation for modern spectroscopy, facilitating advancements in various scientific fields.
Continue ReadingConstance Georgina Tardrew
A prominent botanist in South Africa, contributions included extensive research on indigenous plant species and environmental conservation initiatives. Active in the botanical community, efforts focused on understanding local flora and promoting the importance of plant biodiversity. Played a significant role in the establishment of botanical gardens and influenced conservation policy through scientific research and advocacy. Tardrew's work helped to document and preserve the rich plant life of South Africa.
Continue ReadingBert Kaempfert
A German conductor and composer contributed to the popular music scene. Born on October 16, 1923, produced instrumental hits that blended orchestral sounds with popular music. Utilized innovative arrangements and techniques, influencing the genre significantly. Established a reputation through a distinctive style that combined elements of jazz, easy listening, and big band music. Created iconic works like 'Strangers in the Night' and 'Spanish Eyes', which gained widespread recognition. His compositions and arrangements led to a successful career that included numerous recordings and collaborations with various artists.
Continue ReadingAntonio López de Santa Anna
A prominent political and military figure in Mexico during the 19th century. Served multiple non-consecutive terms as President of Mexico. Led Mexican troops in the Texas Revolution and was a key figure in the Battle of the Alamo. Surrendered to Texian forces in 1836 and was eventually captured, leading to the independence of Texas. Returned to power in the Mexican government numerous times amid political instability.
Continue Reading