Miguel Ángel Asturias
Guatemalan Nobel Prize-winning author
A Guatemalan journalist, author, and poet, this individual became an influential literary figure in the 20th century. His works often explored themes of social justice, indigenous culture, and the struggles of the marginalized. The novel 'El Señor Presidente' critiqued authoritarian regimes and highlighted the political corruption in Guatemala. In 1967, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his body of work that combined magic realism with social critique, contributing to the development of Latin American literature. His legacy includes advocacy for human rights and cultural identity in Guatemala.
Published 'El Señor Presidente'
Won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1967
Other People Born on October 19th
Lionel Hollins
Basketball coach and player, NBA champion
Born
October 19th, 1953 72 years ago
Played college basketball at Arizona State University before being selected 6th overall in the 1975 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers. Helped the Trail Blazers win the NBA Championship in 1977. Transitioned into coaching after retirement and served as head coach for the Memphis Grizzlies, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances. Also had coaching stints with the Brooklyn Nets and the University of Memphis.
Continue ReadingMichael Young
Baseball player and All-Star infielder
Born
October 19th, 1976 49 years ago
Played in Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop and second baseman from 2000 to 2013. Most notable tenure with the Texas Rangers, where significant contributions helped the team reach the World Series in 2010 and 2011. Awarded the Silver Slugger Award multiple times and selected for the All-Star Game on three occasions. Known for versatility on the field and consistent hitting, finishing with over 2,300 career hits.
Continue ReadingDeborah Blum
Journalist and author of science books
Born
October 19th, 1954 71 years ago
A journalist and author with a focus on science communication. Blum wrote extensively on various topics in science and health, contributing to major publications. As a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she shared expertise in journalism. Blum authored several acclaimed books, including 'The Poisoner's Handbook', which explores the history of forensic science. The work received critical praise and won numerous awards.
Continue ReadingSachiko Sugiyama
Volleyball player for Japan national team
Born
October 19th, 1979 46 years ago
A prominent volleyball player competed internationally representing Japan. Participated in the 2000 Sydney Olympics and contributed to the team's efforts in several world championships. Played professionally in domestic leagues, showcasing skills that contributed to Japan's competitive presence in volleyball.
Continue ReadingDidier Theys
Race car driver and coach
Born
October 19th, 1956 69 years ago
Born in Belgium, a successful race car driver and coach with a notable career in endurance racing. Competed prominently in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving significant acclaim. Transitioned to coaching, sharing expertise with aspiring drivers. Contributed to various racing teams, enhancing their performance on the track.
Continue ReadingSalimuzzaman Siddiqui
Chemist and scholar, eminent researcher
Born
October 19th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1994 31 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent chemist and scholar, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry through research in natural products and medicinal chemistry. Held various academic positions, including serving as the director of the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. Authored numerous research papers and was involved in establishing several scientific institutions in Pakistan. Played a key role in promoting scientific education and research in the country.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 9th
Brian Williamson
Jamaican LGBT rights activist, co-founder
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2004 21 years ago — 59 years old
An activist focused on LGBT rights in Jamaica. Co-founded the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (J-FLAG), which aimed to advocate for and support the LGBT community. Worked against systemic discrimination and violence faced by sexual minorities in Jamaica. Williamson's efforts contributed to raising awareness of LGBT issues within a challenging socio-political environment. Passed away under tragic circumstances in 2004, highlighting the ongoing struggles for LGBT rights in the region.
Continue ReadingPumpkinhead
American rapper with cult following
Born
September 17th, 1975 50 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 39 years old
Emerging from the underground hip hop scene in the mid-1990s, a rapper gained recognition for intricate lyrics and skilled performances. This artist became influential in battle rap circles and was associated with the New York City hip hop community. Releases include the acclaimed album 'The Pumpkinhead' and various mixtapes that showcased lyrical prowess. Collaborations with prominent artists enhanced visibility in the genre. Engaged in community initiatives supporting youth in hip hop culture.
Continue ReadingAlain Touraine
French sociologist and social theorist
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2023 2 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent French sociologist recognized for contributions to the understanding of contemporary societies. Focused on social movements, modernization, and the role of individuals in social change. Developed the concept of 'sociologie de l'action' emphasizing the importance of social actors and their capacity to shape their environments. Served as a director at the École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales and published numerous influential works that examine the tensions between global processes and local identities.
Continue ReadingJames Lawson
American activist and author
Born
September 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2024 1 years ago — 95 years old
An influential figure in the American civil rights movement, contributed to the philosophy of nonviolent resistance. Served as a key strategist and organizer for the Nashville sit-ins, which aimed to desegregate lunch counters. Later, taught at various academic institutions, focusing on social justice and ethics. Authored works on the significance of nonviolence and participated in numerous protests advocating for civil rights and social change.
Continue ReadingIvan Minatti
Slovene poet and translator
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
A Slovene poet and translator contributed significantly to Slovene literature. Published several collections of poetry and translated works from various languages into Slovene, enriching the literary landscape. Worked to promote Slovene language and literature through public readings and literary events. Garnered recognition within literary circles and received several awards for contributions to poetry and translation.
Continue ReadingCamille Guérin
Veterinarian, bacteriologist and researcher
Born
December 22nd, 1872 153 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1961 64 years ago — 88 years old
A significant figure in veterinary medicine and bacteriology, this individual contributed to the development of the anti-tuberculosis vaccine. Graduating from veterinary school, extensive research activities led to pioneering work in bacterial pathogens. Development of the BCG vaccine, used widely to prevent tuberculosis, remains a critical accomplishment. Collaborations with other scientists facilitated advancements in studies related to pathogens affecting both animals and humans.
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