Portia White

Opera singer and concert artist

Portia White - Opera singer and concert artist
Born

June 24th, 1911
113 years ago

Died

February 13th, 1968
57 years ago — 56 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

Canada

Links & References

An opera singer gained recognition for her rich contralto voice and exceptional stage presence. She studied at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto and became the first Black Canadian to gain significant acclaim in the world of classical music. Concerts included performances with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and appearances at prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall. White's artistry brought classical music to broader audiences and inspired many aspiring singers.

First Black Canadian opera singer

Performed with Toronto Symphony Orchestra

Appeared at Royal Albert Hall

Other People Born on June 24th

Minka Kelly

American actress from 'Friday Night Lights'
Born
June 24th, 1980 44 years ago

Born on June 24, 1980, in Los Angeles, California, an actress gained recognition for roles in television and film. Achievements include portraying Lyla Garrity in the series 'Friday Night Lights', which aired from 2006 to 2011, and appearing in the lead role in the action drama series 'Charlie's Angels' in 2011. Additionally, roles included parts in films such as 'The Roommate' and 'Evelyn'. The actress has also made guest appearances in other series, including 'Parenthood' and 'The Chuck'.

Continue Reading

Johann Albrecht Bengel

German theologian and biblical scholar
Born
June 24th, 1687 337 years ago
Died
1757 268 years ago — 70 years old

A German theologian and biblical scholar contributed significantly to the study of the New Testament. Emphasized the importance of textual criticism, providing a systematic approach to the understanding of biblical texts. His work 'Gnomon of the New Testament' remains influential, offering detailed commentary and insights into the scriptures. Engaged in debates regarding the accuracy of biblical translations and texts, advocating for careful examination of manuscripts.

Continue Reading

Jack Carter

American actor and comedian
Born
June 24th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2015 9 years ago — 93 years old

An American actor and comedian, this individual gained prominence through performances in television and film, particularly noted for the popular television show 'The Tonight Show' and roles in films including 'The Man with the Golden Arm' and 'The Big Scoop'. His comedic style and quick wit garnered a substantial following over the years, leading to a successful career that spanned several decades. In addition to performing, involvement in variety shows and frequent guest appearances on game shows solidified his status in the entertainment industry. His contributions to comedy and live performances left a lasting impression on audiences.

Continue Reading

Friedrich Loeffler

Bacteriologist known for diphtheria research
Born
June 24th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 63 years old

Contributed significantly to microbiology and the study of infectious diseases. Established the role of the bacterium in causing diphtheria and conducted extensive research on the pathogenic agents of animal diseases. Played a key role in the development of vaccines and methods of disease control. Served as a professor and worked at the Imperial Health Office in Berlin, shaping the future of bacteriology and public health.

Continue Reading

Curt Smith

English singer-songwriter and producer
Born
June 24th, 1961 63 years ago

Born in 1961, an English singer-songwriter and producer gained prominence as a founding member of the band Tears for Fears. The band achieved global success with the release of the album 'Songs from the Big Chair' in 1985, featuring hits like 'Everybody Wants to Rule the World' and 'Shout'. After the band's initial break-up, launched a successful solo career, releasing albums including 'Curt Smith' and 'Deceptively Simple'. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to film soundtracks, further expanding musical repertoire.

Continue Reading

Armin Öpik

Paleontologist and geologist with research
Born
June 24th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1983 42 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of paleontology and geology, focusing on the study of fossils and the geology of various regions. Conducted extensive research on the evolution of land vertebrates. His work included analyzing the fossil record, providing insights into prehistoric life forms. Öpik also played a key role in the development of geological mapping techniques in Australia, enhancing the understanding of the continent's geological history. His legacy includes various scientific publications that expanded knowledge in paleontology and geology.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 13th

Johann Joseph Fux

Austrian composer and music theorist
Born
1660 365 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1741 284 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Graz, this composer and music theorist contributed significantly to music education through the introduction of counterpoint. Fux's notable work, "Gradus ad Parnassum," published in 1725, is a comprehensive treatise on counterpoint that has been influential in music theory. He served as the court composer in Vienna and held prominent positions in the musical establishment of the Habsburg court. His compositions include sacred music, operas, and chamber works, highlighting a mastery of baroque style.

Continue Reading

Roger Joseph Boscovich

Physicist and philosopher of science
Born
May 18th, 1711 313 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1787 238 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of physics, astronomy, and mathematics during the 18th century. Developed a coherent atomic theory integrating various scientific disciplines. Formulated Boscovich's theory of forces, which described the interactions between particles. Engaged in extensive work on celestial mechanics and was involved in the construction of the first observatory in Croatia. Also contributed to the study of the Earth's curvature and geodesy. Authored numerous works that combined philosophy and science, leaving a legacy in both disciplines.

Continue Reading

Charles X Gustav

King of Sweden, Treaty of Westphalia
Born
1622 403 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1660 365 years ago — 38 years old

Became the king of Sweden in 1654 and ruled until 1660. His reign was marked by military engagements during the Second Northern War against Poland and Denmark. Initiated the Swedish invasion of Poland in 1655 to support the Protestant cause. Played a significant role in the Treaty of Westphalia, which expanded Swedish territories in the region. Reformed the Swedish military and strengthened its naval capabilities. Increased Sweden's influence in Northern Europe during his reign.

Continue Reading

Miles J. Jones

Pathologist and physician specializing in medical research
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 61 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of pathology through extensive research and clinical practice. Focused on the study of various diseases and their diagnoses, aiding in the advancement of medical science. Served in multiple esteemed medical institutions, facilitating educational growth in pathology. Advocated for improved methodologies in disease management and diagnosis.

Continue Reading

Lucille Clifton

Poet and author of 'Blessing the Boats'
Born
June 27th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2010 15 years ago — 73 years old

A significant figure in American poetry, this poet's work frequently addressed themes of race, gender, and family. She published numerous collections, including 'Good Woman: Poems and a Memoir 1969-1980' and 'Blessing the Boats: New and Selected Poems.' This poet received various awards throughout her career, including the Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize. Teaching roles included positions at several institutions, contributing to literature and education.

Continue Reading

Aileen Hernandez

Union organizer and activist
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2017 8 years ago — 91 years old

Aileen Hernandez was an American labor organizer and civil rights activist. Hernandez served as the first woman president of the United Farm Workers of America in the 1970s, advocating for better working conditions and fair wages for farm workers. In addition to her work with the UFW, she was involved with the National Organization for Women and fought for equal rights for women. Hernandez was also a founding member of the Coalition of Labor Union Women, which aimed to advance the rights of working women. Her efforts spanned several decades and included participation in a variety of labor-related campaigns.

Continue Reading