Salman Rushdie
Novelists and essayist; The Midnight's Children
Born in India, raised in England, engaged in literature as a novelist and essayist. Published the acclaimed novel 'Midnight's Children' in 1981, which received the Booker Prize and was awarded the Booker of Bookers. Faced significant controversy following the release of 'The Satanic Verses' in 1988, which led to widespread protests and a fatwa calling for his death. Worked on various other novels, essays, and critiques, contributing to discussions on identity, migration, and cultural conflict. Has lived in multiple countries, including the United States and England, continuing to write and speak on issues of freedom of expression and religious tolerance.
Published 'Midnight's Children', winning the Booker Prize
Wrote 'The Satanic Verses', leading to a global controversy
Other People Born on June 19th
Lester Flatt
Bluegrass musician and songwriter
Born
June 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1979 46 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent bluegrass singer-songwriter and musician, contributed significantly to the genre's development. Founded the legendary band, The Foggy Mountain Boys, alongside Earl Scruggs. Gained widespread recognition for the song "The Ballad of Jed Clampett," which served as the theme for the TV show 'The Beverly Hillbillies.' Recorded numerous albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing a distinctive style that blended traditional Appalachian music with contemporary influences. Influenced a generation of musicians and served as a key figure in defining bluegrass music.
Continue ReadingGuy Lombardo
Violinist and bandleader, 'Auld Lang Syne'
Born
June 19th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Canada, became a prominent bandleader in the United States. Founded the Royal Canadians, which gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. Blended traditional pop and big band music, leading to a long career that included annual New Year's Eve broadcasts. Lombardo's orchestra was synonymous with New Year's celebrations for decades, performing 'Auld Lang Syne' as the clock struck midnight. He played for audiences in venues such as the Waldorf Astoria in New York City and recorded numerous albums throughout his career.
Continue ReadingDon Gutteridge
Baseball player and manager, St. Louis Browns
Born
June 19th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1912, a professional baseball player and manager contributed to Major League Baseball primarily as an infielder. Played for the St. Louis Browns and outlined a significant career in the league. Transitioned into a managerial role after his playing career, leading teams in both Major League Baseball and the minor leagues.
Continue ReadingOsamu Dazai
Japanese author of 'No Longer Human'
Born
June 19th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1948 77 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1909, this writer produced significant works in Japanese literature. He authored the novel 'No Longer Human', which explores themes of alienation and despair. His semi-autobiographical narratives often reflected his own struggles with mental health and societal expectations. The conniving and complex plotlines showcased unique stylistic elements, influencing subsequent generations of writers. Additionally, he wrote 'The Setting Sun', which delves into post-war Japanese society. His works highlight the conflicts of modern existence, resonating deeply with readers in Japan and abroad. Despite facing numerous personal challenges, including bouts of depression and multiple suicide attempts, this literary figure left a lasting legacy in the realm of 20th-century literature.
Continue ReadingErnst Boris Chain
Biochemist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
June 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1979 46 years ago — 73 years old
A biochemist and academic, made significant contributions to the field of antibiotic research. Worked on the development of penicillin, contributing to its mass production during World War II. Held academic positions throughout his career, including at the University of London, and later at various institutions in Ireland. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945, sharing the honor with Alexander Fleming and Howard Florey for the discovery and development of penicillin.
Continue ReadingJoshua Nkomo
Zimbabwean guerrilla leader and politician
Born
June 19th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in Zimbabwe's struggle for independence, a leading figure in the Zimbabwe African People's Union (ZAPU) during the liberation movement. Served as Vice President after the nation's independence in 1980, contributing to the establishment of the new government. Nkomo played a crucial role in negotiating peace between various factions during the civil conflicts in the country.
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