Thomas C. Hart
American admiral and politician
Served as a United States Navy admiral during World War II. Commanded naval operations in the Pacific theater and played a crucial role in various battles. Elected to the U.S. Senate representing the state of Connecticut after retiring from military service. Advocated for naval expansion and modernization.
Commanded naval forces during World War II
Served as United States Senator from Connecticut
Other People Born on June 12th
Harry Johnston
Botanist and explorer of Central Africa
Born
June 12th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1927 99 years ago — 69 years old
Contributions included extensive exploration of Central Africa and significant botanical research. Conducted studies in regions such as Uganda and the Congo, cataloging numerous plant species. Served as a government administrator in various capacities, aiding in the development of infrastructure and governance in British colonies. Authored multiple works documenting flora and fauna, alongside travel narratives reflecting on African geography and cultures.
Continue ReadingUta Hagen
Theatrical actress and acting teacher
Born
June 12th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2004 22 years ago — 84 years old
An influential actress and acting teacher, significant contributions were made to American theater. Worked extensively on Broadway and in regional theater. Received acclaim for roles in productions such as 'A Streetcar Named Desire' and 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?'. Authored 'Respect for Acting', a seminal work in acting pedagogy that remains a standard text in theater training.
Continue ReadingJohn A. Alonzo
Actor and cinematographer on 'Chinatown'
Born
June 12th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2001 24 years ago — 66 years old
Contributions included work as an actor and cinematographer, with notable projects spanning several decades. Achievements in film included a pivotal role in the cinematography of 'Chinatown', a film directed by Roman Polanski, which received widespread acclaim and several awards. In addition to work in film, involvement in television and other cinematic projects contributed to a versatile career. Collaborations with prominent directors marked significant points in the professional timeline.
Continue ReadingAndranik Margaryan
Armenian Prime Minister and engineer
Born
June 12th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2007 18 years ago — 55 years old
Served as the 10th Prime Minister of Armenia from 2000 until 2007. Held various engineering and governmental positions prior to premiership. Focused on economic transformation and integrating Armenia into international structures. Managed the government during significant political changes and worked on strategies for development and reform.
Continue ReadingEdmond Hébert
French geologist and academic
Born
June 12th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1890 135 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of geology during the 19th century. Focused on the study of mineralogy and paleontology. Held a position at the University of Nancy, where teachings shaped future geologists. Published several works that advanced geological understanding. Engaged in research that laid the groundwork for later geological studies.
Continue ReadingHendrik Elias
Belgian politician and mayor of Ghent
Born
June 12th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1973 53 years ago — 70 years old
An academic and politician held the position of the 9th Mayor of Ghent. Focused on urban development and local governance, implemented various policies affecting the city's growth and infrastructure. Engaged actively in the political landscape during the mid-20th century, contributing to the shaping of local policies and community initiatives. His leadership was acknowledged for advancing the interests of Ghent's citizens.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 4th
Victor Chang
Surgeon and pioneer in heart surgery
Born
November 21st, 1936 89 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1991 34 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent surgeon, contributions included advancements in cardiac surgery and the development of the artificial heart valve. Became a leader in heart transplantation, establishing protocols that significantly improved patient outcomes. Held the position of Director of the Cardiothoracic Unit at St. Vincent's Hospital in Sydney. Engaged in education and advocacy for medical research and treatment in Australia and internationally.
Continue ReadingRobby Müller
Dutch cinematographer for iconic films
Born
1940 86 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2018 7 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent Dutch cinematographer contributed significantly to the film industry through collaborations with notable directors such as Wim Wenders, Jim Jarmusch, and Lars von Trier. Worked on acclaimed films including 'Paris, Texas,' 'Breaking the Waves,' and 'Stranger Than Paradise.' His distinctive visual style incorporated innovative camera techniques and lighting, enhancing the storytelling of various genres. Awarded the Golden Frog at the Camerimage festival for outstanding achievements in cinematography.
Continue ReadingJesse Helms
U.S. Senator and conservative commentator
Born
October 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2008 17 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from North Carolina from 1973 to 2003. Played a significant role in shaping conservative policies and was a prominent figure in the Republican Party. Advocated for free-market principles and traditional values. During tenure, focused on issues such as foreign policy, social conservatism, and government spending. Hosted a television program that promoted conservative viewpoints.
Continue ReadingAbbas Kiarostami
Film director, 'Taste of Cherry'
Born
June 22nd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2016 9 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Iranian director, producer, and screenwriter influenced global cinema with a distinct narrative style. Kiarostami's work often explored philosophical themes, using minimalism and non-professional actors to convey complex human emotions. His film 'Taste of Cherry' received the Palme d'Or at the 1997 Cannes Film Festival, bringing international attention to Iranian cinema. Other notable works include 'Close-Up' and 'The Wind Will Carry Us', which further showcased his unique perspective on everyday life and social issues in Iran.
Continue ReadingGene Conley
Baseball and basketball player, 3x champion
Born
November 10th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old
Played both Major League Baseball and National Basketball Association. In baseball, played for teams including the Boston Braves and Philadelphia Phillies, contributing to the 1957 World Series championship with the Braves. In basketball, played for the Boston Celtics, winning three NBA championships during 1959, 1960, and 1961.
Continue ReadingC. J. Henderson
Author and critic of speculative fiction
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 63 years old
An American author and critic, widely recognized for contributions to speculative fiction. Wrote numerous novels, short stories, and articles covering a variety of topics including horror, science fiction, and fantasy. Developed a significant body of work that included series such as the 'Jack Hagee' books and the 'Pulp Fiction' series. Also edited and contributed to various publications, providing insights into the genre and its authors.
Continue Reading