Samuel Griffith
Politician, 9th Premier of Queensland
Born in Wales and later moving to Australia, served as the 9th Premier of Queensland from 1893 to 1898. Played a significant role in the drafting of the Australian Constitution, contributing to the establishment of the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. As a member of the Queensland Legislative Assembly, pushed for various reforms including land and electoral laws. Additionally, held the position of Chief Justice of Queensland, actively influencing the judicial landscape of the state.
Served as Premier of Queensland
Contributed to the Australian Constitution
Held Chief Justice position in Queensland
Other People Born on June 21st
William Vickrey
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 21st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 82 years old
An economist and academic contributed to the theory of incentive systems and auction design. Vickrey's work on the theory of second-price auctions established foundational concepts in auction theory. He received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1996 for his analysis of incentives under asymmetric information and for his contributions to auction theory. Vickrey served as a professor at Columbia University and was actively involved in various economic research initiatives throughout his career.
Continue ReadingRičardas Berankis
Lithuanian tennis player with ATP titles
Born
June 21st, 1990 35 years ago
A professional tennis player, he achieved significant success on the ATP Tour and in international competitions. Berankis earned his first ATP title in 2018 at the New Zealand Open. Known for his strong baseline play and tactical approach, he represented Lithuania in various international team events, including the Davis Cup. Berankis also had a notable junior career, winning the 2007 Wimbledon boys' singles title.
Continue ReadingFernando Savater
Philosopher and author with notable essays
Born
June 21st, 1947 78 years ago
Born in 1947, this Spanish philosopher and author gained prominence through works that explore ethical and political themes. Advocated for secularism and pluralism, contributing significantly to contemporary philosophy and public debate in Spain. Worked as a professor and wrote extensively on various subjects, including education, freedom, and the value of human life. Engagement in public discourse included collaborating with media outlets, allowing philosophical ideas to reach a wider audience. Received accolades for literary contributions and influential essays.
Continue ReadingO.C. Smith
R&B and jazz singer with hits like 'Little Green Apples'
Born
June 21st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 69 years old
An American R&B and jazz singer, significant achievements occurred during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained recognition with the release of the hit single 'Little Green Apples' in 1968, which reached the top of the charts. Also recorded the popular song 'The Cover of the Rolling Stone.' Conducted live performances across various venues, showcasing a smooth vocal style and engaging stage presence. In addition to a successful recording career, united the genres of R&B and jazz effectively, attracting a wide audience.
Continue ReadingTibor Szele
Hungarian mathematician and scholar
Born
June 21st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1955 70 years ago — 36 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and set theory. Worked extensively on combinatorial set theory and made advances in the axiomatic foundations of mathematics. Published numerous papers, influencing mathematical research and education in Hungary. Also served as a professor, guiding students in advanced mathematical concepts.
Continue ReadingRockwell Kent
American painter and illustrator
Born
June 21st, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1971 54 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent painter and illustrator, contributed to American visual arts with bold landscapes and striking imagery. Worked extensively in various media, including oil painting, lithography, and illustration. Gained recognition for the illustrations in classic literature, marrying visual art with text. Involved in the Works Progress Administration, supporting artistic initiatives during the Great Depression. Travelled to remote locations that influenced artistic style, including Alaska and Greenland.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 9th
Calvin "Fuzz" Jones
American singer and bass player, Blues artist
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2010 15 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent figure in the American Blues scene, contributed to the music industry primarily as a singer and bass player. Played with notable artists and participated in numerous recordings, showcasing talents that greatly influenced the genre. Collaborated with blues musicians and was actively involved in the Chicago music circuit. Gained recognition for performances that highlighted traditional blues elements while also incorporating his unique style. Maintained a strong presence in live performances throughout the 20th century, earning respect among peers and fans alike.
Continue ReadingEd Nelson
American actor in 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
An American actor contributed to television and film, appearing in numerous series and movies over several decades. Most recognized for a prominent role in the classic series 'The Twilight Zone', portrayed a series of diverse characters that showcased versatility. Also played significant roles in daytime soap operas, including 'The Doctors' and 'Days of Our Lives', establishing a solid presence in the genre. Nelson's career spanned from the 1950s into the 2000s, involving collaborations with various notable directors and actors. Continued to engage in acting until retirement, leaving a legacy of performances remembered by audiences.
Continue ReadingGene F. Franklin
Engineer and academic in control systems
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of control systems engineering. Authored and co-authored several influential textbooks, including 'Feedback Control of Dynamic Systems' and 'Control of Dynamic Systems'. Served as a professor at Stanford University and was involved in various research projects pertaining to control theory. Held various academic and leadership roles throughout career, influencing both education and practical applications in engineering.
Continue ReadingJohn Henry Holland
Computer scientist and academic innovator
Born
February 2nd, 1929 97 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Pioneered in the field of genetic algorithms and complex adaptive systems. Contributed significantly to the development of theories that integrate computer science, biological evolution, and social behavior. Held a professorship at the University of Michigan, influencing both academic research and practical applications in artificial intelligence and cognitive science. Published numerous influential papers and books on genetic algorithms, including 'Adaptation in Natural and Artificial Systems'.
Continue ReadingAndriy Bal
Ukrainian footballer and coach
Born
1958 68 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 56 years old
Played professional football primarily as a midfielder during the 1980s and 1990s. Featured for teams including FC Karpaty Lviv and FC Dynamo Kyiv. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from professional play, influencing the next generation of players. Served as a coach for the Ukrainian national youth teams. Passed away in 2014.
Continue ReadingDavid Rakoff
Canadian-American actor and journalist
Born
1964 62 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 48 years old
This individual was a Canadian-American actor and journalist who contributed significantly to public radio and literature. Regular appearances on the radio show 'This American Life' showcased a unique storytelling style and sharp wit. Authored several books, including 'Fraud' and 'Don't Get Too Comfortable', which combined personal experiences with social commentary. Worked as an essayist for publications such as The New York Times and The New York Observer. Recognized for both humor and poignancy in writing, often blending autobiography with cultural critique.
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