Sigmar Polke
German painter and photographer
A prominent figure in the art world, contributions encompassed painting, photography, and collage. Pioneered innovative techniques combining traditional and experimental methods. Emerged as a key member of the Capitalist Realism movement, which responded to post-war consumer culture in West Germany. Explored themes of capitalism, history, and media, often utilizing humor and irony. Exhibited works globally in galleries and museums.
Co-founded the Capitalist Realism movement
Explored consumer culture in contemporary art
Implemented experimental techniques in photography
Other People Born on February 13th
Heinrich Caro
Chemist with contributions to dye industry
Born
February 13th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1910 115 years ago — 76 years old
Contributions largely focused on the development of synthetic dyes. Entered the dye business in 1850 and worked at the chemical factory of von der Leyen. Notably collaborated on the invention of aniline dyes. Made significant advancements in chemical processes and compounds during the 19th century. Later in life, served as a professor, imparting knowledge to future generations in the field of chemistry.
Continue ReadingAung San
Burmese general and politician
Born
February 13th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1947 78 years ago — 32 years old
Served as a general in the Burma Independence Army and played a significant role in the struggle for independence from British rule. Became the 5th Premier of the British Crown Colony of Burma in 1947. Instrumental in the formation of the Anti-Fascist People’s Freedom League and in negotiations with the British government for Burma's independence. Assassinated in 1947 shortly after securing the promise of full independence.
Continue ReadingWilliam Shockley
Physicist and Nobel laureate in physics
Born
February 13th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1989 36 years ago — 79 years old
An English-American physicist and academic, contributions included the invention of the transistor, which significantly advanced electronic technology. Affiliated with Stanford University, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1956 along with John Bardeen and Walter Brattain for their roles in the development of the transistor. Later focused on controversial research related to genetics and intelligence.
Continue ReadingOliver Reed
English actor in 'Gladiator'
Born
February 13th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1999 26 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1938, an English actor gained recognition for a commanding screen presence and intense performances. Career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1950s. Achievement includes a role in the Oscar-winning film 'Gladiator.' Also appeared in notable films such as 'The Curse of the Werewolf' and 'The Three Musketeers.' Worked in theater and television, showcasing versatility across different media. Reed's off-screen personality was as striking as his on-screen roles, contributing to a public image that blended charm with unpredictability.
Continue ReadingHarold Mahony
Scottish-Irish tennis player, Wimbledon winner
Born
February 13th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1905 120 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1867, a tennis player competed in the late 19th century. Achieved significant recognition by winning the men's doubles title at Wimbledon in 1896 alongside partner Joshua Pim. The victory marked a key achievement in his career. Participated in various tennis competitions during a time when the sport was rapidly gaining popularity. Contributed to the development of tennis in Scotland and Ireland through participation in national events and tournaments.
Continue ReadingMichael Turner
American football running back, Pro Bowler
Born
February 13th, 1982 43 years ago
Played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for the San Diego Chargers and the Atlanta Falcons. Achieved significant success during the career, including selection to the Pro Bowl in multiple years. Gained recognition for powerful running style and ability to break tackles, which contributed to his teams' offensive strategies. Accumulated over 8,000 rushing yards during the NFL career and was a key contributor to the Falcons' offense, particularly during the late 2000s. Notably led the league in rushing touchdowns during the 2008 season and played an instrumental role in Atlanta's playoff runs.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 10th
Marcus Garvey
Jamaican activist and Black Star Line founder
Born
August 17th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1940 85 years ago — 52 years old
Born in Jamaica, a prominent journalist and activist emerged, advocating for the rights and empowerment of people of African descent. Founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in 1914, which aimed to unite and uplift the global African community. Established the Black Star Line, a shipping company intended to facilitate trade and transport for the African diaspora. Promoted the philosophy of Black nationalism and Pan-Africanism, encouraging economic independence and self-reliance among African-Americans. Garvey faced legal troubles, including a conviction for mail fraud, leading to deportation from the United States to Jamaica in 1927. Continued activism in Jamaica and later in London. His ideas and initiatives influenced future civil rights movements.
Continue ReadingToussaint-Guillaume Picquet de la Motte
French admiral and naval commander
Born
November 1st, 1720 305 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1791 234 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1720, served in the French Navy during the 18th century. Achieved the rank of admiral and played a significant role in the naval battles against Great Britain during the Seven Years' War. Commanded the French fleet at the Battle of Quiberon Bay and served with distinction in various other engagements. Instrumental in the protection of French maritime interests and territories throughout his career. Contributed to naval tactics and the organization of the French navy during a pivotal time in maritime history.
Continue ReadingEmperor Daizong of Tang
Emperor of Tang Dynasty during 779
Born
January 9th, 727 1298 years ago
Died
June 10th, 779 1246 years ago — 52 years old
Ruled as the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty from 756 to 779. Ascended to the throne during a period of internal turmoil and governmental challenges. Implemented policies to stabilize the empire and restore order following the An Lushan Rebellion. Focused on re-establishing imperial authority and promoting regional governance. Introduced reforms in taxation and land management, which aimed to alleviate the burdens on peasants and enhance agricultural productivity. His reign marked a significant phase in Tang history, marking a transition towards greater stability and economic recovery.
Continue ReadingWarner Fusselle
Sportscaster, Host of MLB on ESPN
Born
April 7th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1944, a prominent sportscaster in American sports broadcasting. Served as the host for Major League Baseball on ESPN during the 1980s and 1990s. Established a reputation for insightful commentary and engaging presentation style. Contributed to various sports programming, offering coverage for multiple sports including baseball and football. Held roles on several networks throughout a career spanning decades, influencing how sports coverage evolved in television.
Continue ReadingClaudell Washington
Baseball player and MLB All-Star
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2020 5 years ago — 66 years old
A professional baseball player, played in Major League Baseball from 1974 to 1990. Primarily played as an outfielder, representing teams like the Chicago Cubs, Atlanta Braves, and New York Yankees. Achieved All-Star status in 1981 while playing for the Oakland Athletics. Contributed significantly to teams with both offensive skills and versatility in the outfield.
Continue ReadingBridget Bishop
Victim of the Salem witch trials
Born
1632 393 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1692 333 years ago — 60 years old
A woman from colonial Massachusetts became one of the first individuals executed during the Salem witch trials. Accusations of witchcraft emerged in a climate of fear and superstition. Bishop was tried and hanged on June 10, 1692, following a series of hearings where numerous witnesses testified against her. The trials marked a significant event in American colonial history, reflecting the panic that gripped the community over allegations of witchcraft and other societal tensions.
Continue Reading