Peter Gay
Historian and author of significant works
A German-American historian and author, contributed extensively to the field of history with a focus on modern European history. Received a Ph.D. from Columbia University and taught at various prestigious institutions. Published influential works, exploring themes of Enlightenment and the interplay between politics and culture. The work 'The Bourgeois Experience: Victoria to Freud' was pivotal in discussing the evolution of bourgeois society. Also authored biographical works on notable figures such as Sigmund Freud and Karl Marx.
Published 'The Bourgeois Experience: Victoria to Freud'
Authored biographies of Sigmund Freud and Karl Marx
Other People Born on June 20th
Fritz Koenig
German sculptor, creator of The Sphere
Born
June 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 93 years old
Born in Germany in 1924, this sculptor and academic contributed significantly to modern art through monumental sculptures. During his career, he created numerous works that explored form and space, with The Sphere being one of his most notable pieces. The Sphere, originally installed in the World Trade Center, became an emblem of peace and resilience following the events of September 11, 2001. His work was characterized by a blend of abstract and organic forms, reflecting both nature and humanity's influence on the environment. Alongside his sculptural endeavors, he served as an academic, sharing his expertise with students and aspiring artists.
Continue ReadingMartin Landau
Actor and producer in film and television
Born
June 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1928, a successful career spanned over six decades, featuring a wide range of roles in both film and television. Significant contributions included portraying Rollin Hand in the television series 'Mission: Impossible' and Bela Lugosi in the film 'Ed Wood', which earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Worked extensively in theater, contributing to various productions and gaining critical acclaim. Served as a mentor to younger actors, notably during his time teaching at the Actors Studio.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Baker
Field Marshal of the British Army
Born
June 20th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1980 46 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a senior officer in the British Army, achieving the rank of Field Marshal. Held the position of Chief of the General Staff, guiding military operations and strategy in the mid-20th century. Played a significant role during World War II, influencing army tactics and administrative capabilities. After the war, focused on reorganizing the army to meet post-war demands and challenges. Engaged in various military reforms throughout tenure.
Continue ReadingByron Farwell
Historian and author of major works
Born
June 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1999 26 years ago — 78 years old
A historian and author contributed extensively to the field of military history and the study of American West. Wrote several books that explored themes of war, peace, and history. Notable works include 'Mr. Lincoln's Attitude Toward Southern Secession' and 'The Great Anglo-Boer War'. Served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, which informed much of his writing. Worked as an editor and wrote for various publications, further influencing historical discourse.
Continue ReadingDaniel Sawyer
Golfer; U.S. Open champion
Born
June 20th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1937 88 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1882, a prominent figure in American golf history. Achieved significant recognition by winning the U.S. Open in 1903. Demonstrated exceptional skill and competitiveness on the golf course during a pivotal era in the sport's development. Contributed to the popularity of golf in the United States through participation in various tournaments and exhibitions, influencing future generations of players.
Continue ReadingFrederick Gowland Hopkins
Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 20th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1947 78 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry through discoveries relating to vitamins and their role in nutrition. Conducted pioneering research on the biochemical processes of living organisms. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge for many years. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1929 alongside Christiaan Eijkman for work on the role of vitamins in metabolism.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Nelly Sachs
Nobel Prize-winning poet and playwright
Born
December 10th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1970 55 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Germany, a notable poet and playwright created significant works that addressed themes of exile and the Jewish experience during World War II. Fleeing the rise of the Nazi regime, relocated to Sweden, where the majority of her literary contributions were made. Much of her writing reflected her personal loss and the broader tragedy of the Holocaust, utilizing a deeply emotional and lyrical style. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1966 in recognition of her literary achievements and profound impact on poetry.
Continue ReadingJ. E. B. Stuart
American Confederate cavalry general
Born
February 6th, 1833 193 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1864 161 years ago — 31 years old
Participated in the American Civil War as a Confederate cavalry general. Played a significant role in battles such as the Battle of Chancellorsville and the Battle of Gettysburg. Commanded the cavalry of the Army of Northern Virginia. Gained recognition for his daring cavalry raids, remarkably during the 1862 Maryland Campaign. Died from wounds sustained at the Battle of Yellow Tavern in 1864.
Continue ReadingCornell Borchers
Lithuanian-German actress and singer
Born
March 16th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
Born in Lithuania, a prominent actress and singer emerged in post-World War II Germany. Initial performances were concentrated in theater, later transitioning to film. Gained recognition for roles in films during the 1950s, particularly featured in "The Tenth Victim" and "The Man Who Knew Too Much". Contributions extended to music, where performances included popular songs that resonated with audiences across Europe. Active in both fields throughout her life, left a legacy of artistic works appreciated in both theater and cinema.
Continue ReadingBedřich Smetana
Czech composer of classical music
Born
March 2nd, 1824 202 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1884 141 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1824, a Czech composer and pianist became a key figure in the development of Czech national music. His composition, 'The Bartered Bride,' gained international recognition for its incorporation of Czech folk themes. Smetana's work 'Má vlast' contains symphonic poems that celebrate the landscapes and history of Bohemia. Amidst his successful career, he also faced personal challenges, including hearing loss, which impacted his later compositions. His legacy endures through the influence on subsequent generations of composers in the classical genre.
Continue ReadingCharles Barry
Architect, designer of Palace of Westminster
Born
May 23rd, 1795 230 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1860 165 years ago — 64 years old
An English architect played a pivotal role in the development of Gothic Revival architecture. Designed the Palace of Westminster in London after the original building was destroyed by fire in 1834. Completed the iconic structure in 1876, establishing a landmark of British politics. Also designed Upper Brook Street Chapel in Manchester, showcasing neoclassical elements.
Continue ReadingThomas Wentworth
1st Earl of Strafford, English politician
Born
April 13th, 1593 433 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1641 384 years ago — 48 years old
Held the title of 1st Earl of Strafford and served as a prominent English soldier and politician during the 17th century. Played a key role as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing the governance and administration of Ireland at a tumultuous time. Implemented administrative reforms aimed at strengthening royal authority, often leading to friction with local leaders and the English Parliament. His policies contributed to significant political unrest, culminating in his arrest and execution amid the struggles between monarchy and Parliament.
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