Ray Barbuti
American sprinter and football player
A prominent athlete in the early 20th century, held a notable career in both track and field as well as American football. Achieved recognition by winning a gold medal in the 400-meter race at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. Later, transitioned to professional football, playing as a back for the New York Giants in the late 1920s. Combined speed and athleticism, contributing to both sports with significant performances.
Gold medalist in the 400 meters at the 1928 Olympics
Played for the New York Giants
Other People Born on June 12th
Reizei
Japanese emperor
Born
June 12th, 950 1075 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1011 1014 years ago — 61 years old
Reizei reigned as the emperor of Japan during the Heian period. Ascending to the throne at a young age, his reign lasted from 967 to 969. The era was marked by a flourishing of Japanese culture, particularly in poetry and literature. Reizei himself was appreciated for his patronage of the arts and the promotion of the literary culture of the time. His imperial court became a center for artistic expression and cultural refinement, reflecting the values of the Heian court.
Continue ReadingPatrick Gass
Sergeant and author of expedition journal
Born
June 12th, 1771 254 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 99 years old
Served as a sergeant during the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1804 to 1806. Documented the journey through daily journals, providing insight into the exploration of the American West. His writings detailed the encounters with various Native American tribes and the geological and botanical discoveries made along the way. Returned to the East after the expedition and authored a book based on his experiences, contributing to the historical record of westward expansion.
Continue ReadingOtto Skorzeny
German SS officer and wartime commando
Born
June 12th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 67 years old
Served as an officer in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Gained notoriety for leading operations that included the rescue of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in 1943. Commanded special forces units that conducted significant raids, often behind enemy lines. After the war, faced trials but evaded severe punishment, later working in various business ventures and maintaining a controversial legacy.
Continue ReadingCosimo I de' Medici
Grand Duke of Tuscany known for unification
Born
June 12th, 1519 506 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1574 451 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1519, served as the Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1537 until death. Played a critical role in consolidating the Medici family's power in Tuscany. Focused on internal stability and economic development, fostering the arts and sciences. His reign marked the height of the Medici family's influence in Italy. Established a centralized government and promoted cultural patronage, significantly enhancing Florence's status as a center of Renaissance culture. Expanded territories through strategic marriages and alliances.
Continue ReadingJohanna Spyri
Swiss author of children's literature
Born
June 12th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1901 124 years ago — 74 years old
An influential Swiss author, primarily recognized for the iconic children's novel 'Heidi.' The story depicts the adventures of a young girl living in the Swiss Alps and has been translated into numerous languages. Throughout her career, numerous adaptations of 'Heidi' appeared in various forms including films, stage productions, and television series, contributing to its lasting popularity. Besides 'Heidi,' other works included 'Heidi Grows Up' and 'A Story for Children,' which also focused on childhood experiences.
Continue ReadingBrigid Brophy
English author and animal rights advocate
Born
June 12th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1995 30 years ago — 66 years old
An English author and critic, contributed significantly to literature through both fiction and non-fiction works. Published several novels, with notable titles including 'The Snowball', 'The Roundabout', and 'The Notes of a Native Son'. Active in animal rights activism, particularly recognized for campaigns against animal experimentation. Influenced literary and ethical discussions through a critical lens, intertwining themes of morality and societal norms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 8th
John V. Evans
American politician, Idaho Governor
Born
January 18th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
A soldier and politician served as the 27th Governor of Idaho from 1971 to 1977. During the governorship, implemented significant educational reforms and worked on environmental issues affecting the state. Prior military service included participation in World War II as a member of the United States Army. Post-gubernatorial career included involvement in various community and political initiatives.
Continue ReadingLouis Franchet d'Espèrey
Algerian-French general and military leader
Born
May 25th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1942 83 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a prominent general in the French Army during World War I. Commanded the Allied forces in the Balkans and was instrumental in the successful offensive on the Macedonian front. Led the campaign that resulted in the capture of Monastir and played a key role in the overall success of the Allied forces. After the war, contributed to military reorganizations and served in various capacities within the military establishment until retirement.
Continue ReadingKim Il Sung
North Korean leader and President
Born
April 15th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1994 31 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the leader of North Korea from its establishment in 1948 until death in 1994. As the founding leader, played a key role in shaping the country's political system based on Juche ideology. Established the Korean Workers' Party as a dominant political force and led North Korea through the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. Oversaw extensive industrialization and military development during the Cold War. Implemented policies that resulted in both economic growth and hardship, particularly during the 1990s famine.
Continue ReadingHenry Raeburn
Scottish portrait painter of the 18th century
Born
March 4th, 1756 269 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1823 202 years ago — 67 years old
Active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, this artist specialized in portrait painting, becoming highly regarded in Edinburgh. Significant contributions to the art world include the use of light and shadow to create depth and character in portraits. This painter's work captured prominent figures of the time, reflecting both their physical appearance and personality. Established as a leading portraitist, the artist served as the portrait painter to the Scottish Court and influenced future generations of painters. Raeburn's style was notable for its realism and emotional intensity, and the artist's legacy continues to inform portrait painting today.
Continue ReadingPrince Adolphus
Duke of Cambridge and military officer
Born
February 24th, 1774 251 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1850 175 years ago — 76 years old
Prince Adolphus served as Duke of Cambridge and had a career in the British Army. He held the rank of major general and was involved in various military campaigns during the Napoleonic Wars. Adolphus was the fourth son of King George III and played a role in the royal family, frequently participating in ceremonial functions. His contributions to the military were recognized, and he gained a reputation for his leadership and strategic insights during his service.
Continue ReadingRoberts Blossom
Actor in 'Home Alone' and 'The Last Temptation of Christ'
Born
March 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 8th, 2011 14 years ago — 87 years old
An American actor born in 1924. Made significant contributions to film and television throughout a career spanning several decades. Featured in prominent roles in movies such as 'Home Alone' as the character Marley and 'The Last Temptation of Christ' as one of the notable characters. Also appeared in various television shows and films, showcasing versatility and talent. Blossom's career in the performing arts extended beyond acting, with work in theatre and as a playwright. Passed away in 2018.
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