Ram Dass

Author and spiritual teacher

Ram Dass - Author and spiritual teacher
Born

April 6th, 1931
94 years ago

Died

December 22nd, 2019
5 years ago — 88 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

An influential spiritual teacher and author, this individual played a significant role in popularizing Eastern spiritual practices in the West. After gaining his education, pursued a career in psychology and later, upon a transformative trip to India, adopted a spiritual path. This journey led to the publication of the book, 'Be Here Now', which became a seminal work in the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s. The teachings emphasized mindfulness, compassion, and the importance of the present moment. Throughout life, engaged in various teachings, retreats, and collaborations with other spiritual leaders, contributing to wellness and meditation practices.

Published 'Be Here Now'

Popularized Eastern spirituality in the West

Other People Born on April 6th

Ian MacRae

New Zealand rugby player, All Blacks member
Born
April 6th, 1943 82 years ago

Played rugby union for New Zealand, representing the All Blacks. Debuted in 1963 and participated in the 1967 series against the British and Irish Lions. Played primarily in the fullback position. Accumulated a total of 10 Test caps, contributing to several victories during his international career.

Continue Reading

Robert Earnshaw

Welsh professional footballer, striker
Born
April 6th, 1981 44 years ago

A professional footballer from Wales, played as a striker and had a notable career across various clubs in the English leagues. Earnshaw began his career with Cardiff City, making significant contributions before transferring to several teams including West Bromwich Albion and Norwich City. Earnshaw also represented the Welsh national team, earning over 50 caps. He became the first player to score a hat-trick in the Premier League for three different clubs. His agility and goal-scoring ability made him a prominent figure in Welsh football during his professional career.

Continue Reading

Merle Haggard

Influential country music singer-songwriter
Born
April 6th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2016 9 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in country music, this individual gained recognition as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. He founded the Bakersfield sound, a subgenre of country music characterized by its honky-tonk roots and electric sound. Numerous chart-topping hits and albums contributed to the career, with significant success throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The individual received multiple Grammy Awards and Academy of Country Music Awards, solidifying status in the industry. The music incorporated personal experiences, reflecting themes of heartache, hardship, and social issues, resonating with audiences widely. Collaboration with fellow artists enhanced the musical repertoire, while performances at various venues showcased talent.

Continue Reading

Randy Weston

Jazz pianist and composer
Born
April 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2018 7 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1926, a prominent jazz pianist and composer contributed significantly to the jazz genre, integrating African rhythms and themes into music. His career spanned over six decades, creating a unique style that reflected his cultural heritage. Weston studied music in a variety of settings and performed with notable artists across the globe. His compositions often highlighted themes related to African history and identity, bringing cultural awareness through music. Weston's influential works include various albums that resonate with intricate rhythms and melodies, showcasing a blend of jazz with traditional African music elements.

Continue Reading

Phil Leeds

American actor from 'The Odd Couple'
Born
April 6th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1998 27 years ago — 82 years old

An American actor with a career spanning several decades, featured in both television and film. Made significant appearances in the television series 'The Odd Couple' and 'Happy Days'. Also had roles in movies such as 'The Sting'. Worked extensively in the entertainment industry, contributing to various comedic roles that showcased unique character portrayals.

Continue Reading

Guillaume Bigourdan

French astronomer known for lunar studies
Born
April 6th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1932 93 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy. Focused on the study of the moon and other celestial bodies. Served as a professor and researcher at various French institutions. Participated in astronomical observations and authored several papers that advanced understanding of lunar phenomena. Actively involved in international astronomical societies and contributed to the development of new methodologies in astronomical research.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 22nd

Petro Mohyla

Ruthenian metropolitan and saint
Born
1596 429 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1646 378 years ago — 50 years old

Served as the Metropolitan of Kiev from 1632 until death in 1646. Established the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, which became a leading educational institution in Eastern Europe. Promoted the unity of the Orthodox Church and sought reform in ecclesiastical practices, advocating for the use of the Church Slavonic language. Played a significant role in the spiritual and educational development of the Ruthenian people.

Continue Reading

Peter Lundblad

Swedish singer-songwriter with popular hits
Born
1950 75 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2015 9 years ago — 65 years old

A Swedish singer-songwriter achieved significant recognition in the music industry. Lundblad's career spanned several decades, producing a series of popular albums and singles. Notable songs included 'Kvinnan i mitt liv' and 'Som en vind', both of which contributed to a successful presence in the Swedish pop music scene. Lundblad's music often featured emotional lyrics and catchy melodies, resonating with a wide audience in Sweden and beyond. His contributions to Swedish music were acknowledged through various awards over the years.

Continue Reading

Bretislav II of Bohemia

Bohemian duke
Born
1060 965 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1100 924 years ago — 40 years old

Ruled as Duke of Bohemia from 1092 until death in 1100. Bretislav II was a key figure during the transitional period of Bohemian history, navigating complex relationships with neighboring states and the Holy Roman Empire. His reign included military campaigns aimed at consolidating power and expanding territory. He led successful incursions against neighboring Poland, demonstrating strategic military leadership. Additionally, his rule is noted for its connection to the ecclesiastical authority in the region, as he sought to strengthen ties with the church and promote Christianity.

Continue Reading

Beatrix Potter

Children's book writer and illustrator
Born
July 28th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1943 81 years ago — 77 years old

An English children's book writer and illustrator created the beloved character Peter Rabbit. The first book, 'The Tale of Peter Rabbit,' was published in 1902, establishing a new style of children's literature. Illustrations featured anthropomorphized animals and detailed natural settings, reflecting a strong interest in nature. In addition to books, contributed to the preservation of rural landscapes through land conservation efforts.

Continue Reading

Richard von Krafft-Ebing

Psychologist and author of 'Psychopathia Sexualis'
Born
August 14th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1902 122 years ago — 62 years old

A psychologist and author contributed to the understanding of sexual psychology through extensive research and writing. Authored 'Psychopathia Sexualis', a pioneering work analyzing sexual anomalies and behaviors. This work served as a foundational text in sexology, influencing both academic and medical fields. Engaged in clinical practices, providing insights into sexual disorders during a time of limited discussion on the subject. Established a framework for the classification and understanding of sexual deviance, which shaped future discussions in psychology and psychiatry.

Continue Reading

Fred Foy

American soldier and sports announcer
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2010 14 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a soldier in World War II, earning recognition for bravery. Later became a prominent sports announcer, providing commentary for various sporting events. Best remembered for announcing the Boston Red Sox games and the iconic 'Game of the Century' in 1955 between the University of Notre Dame and the University of Oklahoma.

Continue Reading