Rona Jaffe
American novelist with The Best of Everything
An American novelist achieved recognition through numerous literary works throughout the 20th century. 'The Best of Everything', published in 1958, explored the lives of young women in the workforce and became a cultural touchstone. Jaffe published several novels, many of which were adapted into films and television series. In addition to her novels, Jaffe wrote for magazines and worked as a screenwriter. The themes in her works often featured strong female characters and societal issues relevant to women. She continued to write well into her later years, contributing to the genre of women's fiction.
Published 'The Best of Everything'
Wrote novels that were adapted into films
Contributed articles to various magazines
Other People Born on June 12th
Sam Thaiday
Rugby League Player and Sportscaster
Born
June 12th, 1985 40 years ago
Played as a rugby league forward for the Brisbane Broncos in the National Rugby League (NRL) from 2003 to 2018. Represented Australia and Queensland in State of Origin matches, contributing to several series victories. Transitioned to sportscasting following retirement, offering insights and commentary on rugby league.
Continue ReadingMauricio Isla
Chilean footballer and Copa América winner
Born
June 12th, 1988 37 years ago
A prominent figure in professional football, played as a right-back and also as a midfielder. Started his career at Universidad Católica before moving to Europe where he had notable stints with clubs such as Udinese, where he played in Serie A, and later joined Queens Park Rangers. Gained recognition for his performances in international tournaments, particularly with the Chile national team. Won the Copa América in 2015, contributing significantly to the team's success. Featured in multiple World Cup tournaments, displaying versatility and skill on the field.
Continue ReadingMarco Bortolami
Rugby player and Italy team captain
Born
June 12th, 1980 45 years ago
Played as a lock and flanker in rugby union. Accumulated over 100 caps for the Italian national team from 2000 to 2013. Participated in three Rugby World Cups in 2003, 2007, and 2011. Served as captain of the national team during various international competitions. Had a notable club career in Italy and England, playing for teams such as Aironi and Gloucester.
Continue ReadingRaitis Grafs
Latvian basketball player, EuroLeague competitor
Born
June 12th, 1981 44 years ago
Played professional basketball primarily as a center. Competed in leagues such as the EuroLeague and the Latvian Basketball League. Represented Latvia in international competitions, including FIBA European Championships. Had a notable career playing for teams like VEF Rīga and Brose Bamberg. Recognized for contributions to Latvian basketball on the international stage.
Continue ReadingKendra Wilkinson
Model and actress from The Girls Next Door
Born
June 12th, 1985 40 years ago
Gained fame as a model and television personality, featuring prominently on the reality series The Girls Next Door from 2005 to 2010. Transitioned into a solo reality series, Kendra, which aired from 2009 to 2011, showcasing personal life and motherhood. Authored a memoir detailing experiences in the entertainment industry and personal struggles. Explored hosting and guest appearances in various shows and events after reality television.
Continue ReadingGustav Forsling
Swedish ice hockey player; NHL defenseman
Born
June 12th, 1996 29 years ago
A professional ice hockey defenseman, this athlete played for the Carolina Hurricanes in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born in 1996, early career began in Sweden, where participation in junior leagues developed skills that led to an NHL career. Selected by the Vancouver Canucks in the 5th round of the 2014 NHL Draft, traded to the Chicago Blackhawks shortly after, made NHL debut in 2016. Known for contributions on defense and ability to transition play, has also represented Sweden internationally, competing in various tournaments including the IIHF World Championship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 30th
Erica Garner
Civil rights activist against police violence
Born
May 29th, 1990 35 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2017 8 years ago — 27 years old
Born in 1990, activism focused on civil rights following the death of Eric Garner, father. Advocated for justice and accountability in cases of police violence. Organized demonstrations and engaged in public speaking to raise awareness about systemic racism and police brutality. Co-founded organizations aimed at addressing police violence and providing support to affected families. Continued activism until untimely death in 2017 due to health complications.
Continue ReadingHan van Meegeren
Painter and art forger
Born
October 10th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1947 78 years ago — 58 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a painter and art forger achieved notoriety during the early to mid-20th century. Initially trained in traditional painting, later shifted focus to forgery. Created a series of forgeries that were passed off as original works by the Dutch master Johannes Vermeer. One of the most significant forgeries, 'Christ and the Woman of Samaria,' led to a high-profile court case after its sale to a Nazi officer. Conviction in the art world followed, marking a controversial chapter in art history. Despite the scandal, continued to influence discussions on authenticity in art.
Continue ReadingWang Shenzhi
Founder of the Min Kingdom
Died
December 30th, 925 1100 years ago — None years old
Founded the Min Kingdom in 909 during the chaotic Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Established a regime that maintained a level of independence from the central authorities of the time. Set the groundwork for the regional governance of the area now known as Fujian Province in China. Governed until death in 925, shaping local politics and culture during his reign.
Continue ReadingCarl Woese
Microbiologist and biophysicist; discovered archaea
Born
July 15th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed significantly to microbial phylogeny and the tree of life. Developed the concept of archaea, a separate domain of life distinct from bacteria and eukaryotes. His work utilized ribosomal RNA sequencing techniques to classify organisms based on genetic material. Published the groundbreaking paper 'The Universal Tree of Life' which reshaped the understanding of evolutionary biology. Served as a professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and received numerous accolades for research in genetics and microbiology.
Continue ReadingJean Collas
Rugby player and tug of war champion
Born
July 3rd, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1928 97 years ago — 54 years old
Competed in rugby and tug of war during the early 20th century. Participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics, representing France in tug of war. Contributed to the development and popularity of rugby in France during the sport's formative years.
Continue ReadingVikram Sarabhai
Indian physicist and space program founder
Born
August 12th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1971 54 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent Indian physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the development of India's space and satellite programs. Played a crucial role in establishing the Indian National Committee for Space Research, which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Instrumental in the launch of the country's first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975. Actively supported the establishment of institutions in various scientific disciplines and promoted the application of science and technology for the development of India.
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