Thorne Smith
American author of comic fantasy novels
A writer primarily recognized for comic fantasy works, this author published several popular novels in the 1920s and 1930s. The most renowned work is 'Topper,' which features a whimsical narrative about a man who encounters the ghosts of a pair of fun-loving spirits. Other notable novels include 'Night Life of the Gods' and 'The Stray Lamb.' This writer's style combined humor with elements of the supernatural, establishing a unique niche in American literature during the early 20th century.
Authored 'Topper', a comic fantasy novel
Wrote 'Night Life of the Gods', featuring mythological themes
Other People Born on March 27th
William Libbey
Colonel and prominent American geographer
Born
March 27th, 1855 171 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1927 98 years ago — 72 years old
A colonel, target shooter, mountaineer, geographer, geologist, and archaeologist. Contributed significantly to geographical exploration and education. Actively engaged in mountaineering, successfully summiting several notable peaks. Played a major role in the establishment of outdoor learning and experience for students. Explored various geological and archaeological sites, adding to the understanding of American landscapes and heritage. Held leadership positions in several scientific and geographical organizations.
Continue ReadingAtsuto Uchida
Japanese footballer and defender
Born
March 27th, 1988 38 years ago
Played as a right-back and started the professional career at Kashima Antlers in 2006. Transferred to Schalke 04 in Germany, contributing to the team's defense and success in domestic and European competitions. Represented Japan in multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup in 2014. Achieved success at club level, winning the DFB-Pokal and participating in the UEFA Champions League.
Continue ReadingGordon Thomson
Rower and lieutenant, Olympic medalist
Born
March 27th, 1884 142 years ago
Died
1953 73 years ago — 69 years old
Gordon Thomson was an English rower who achieved success in the early 20th century. Competed in the 1908 London Olympic Games as part of the Great Britain rowing team. The team secured a silver medal in the men's eight event. Served as a lieutenant during World War I, demonstrating leadership and dedication in both sport and service.
Continue ReadingLeif Tronstad
Chemist and military leader, Norway
Born
March 27th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
1945 81 years ago — 42 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of chemical warfare during World War II. Led efforts in sabotage operations against German forces, particularly in Norway. Played a crucial role in the production of heavy water, a key component for nuclear reactors, by working on the Vemork hydroelectric plant sabotage. Actively participated in the Norwegian government in exile, advocating for effective resistance against Nazi occupation.
Continue ReadingLê Văn Hưng
South Vietnamese Brigadier General
Born
March 27th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
1975 51 years ago — 42 years old
Birth occurred in 1933. Served in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, reaching the rank of Brigadier General. Key role involved leadership during the Vietnam War, particularly in operations in the central highlands. Participated in various military campaigns aimed at stabilizing the region and countering North Vietnamese forces. After the fall of Saigon in 1975, relocated to the United States, contributing to veteran and exile communities.
Continue ReadingRandall Cunningham
NFL quarterback and pastor
Born
March 27th, 1963 63 years ago
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League, primarily with the Philadelphia Eagles. Made significant contributions to the franchise as a starting quarterback. Achieved notable success in the league and was selected for four Pro Bowls. Transitioned to coaching and pursued a career in ministry, impacting the lives of many through pastoral work.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 21st
Rudra Mohammad Shahidullah
Bangladeshi poet and playwright
Born
October 16th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1992 34 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1956, this individual was a prominent figure in Bengali literature. Authored numerous poems and plays that explored themes of love, loss, and the human condition. The poetic style was marked by a blending of traditional and modern elements, earning a significant place in the literary canon of Bangladesh. Several works received critical acclaim and were influential in the development of contemporary Bengali poetry. The individual was also involved in various cultural movements that aimed to enrich the arts in the country.
Continue ReadingÉtienne Aignan
French author and academic
Born
April 9th, 1773 253 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1824 202 years ago — 51 years old
Born in France in 1773, this individual was an influential author and academic who contributed to the literary scene in the 19th century. Primarily involved in the promotion and study of French literature, he engaged in academic pursuits that helped shape cultural discussions of the time. His works reflected a deep understanding of literary movements and influenced both contemporaries and future scholars.
Continue ReadingElliott Reid
American actor in several film genres
Born
January 16th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2013 13 years ago — 93 years old
An American actor and screenwriter, active from the 1940s to the early 2000s. Significant roles included performances in 'The Seven Year Itch' alongside Marilyn Monroe and 'The Man with the Golden Arm' featuring Frank Sinatra. Notable for bringing charm and wit to various characters across film and television, including a recurring role in the series 'The Bob Cummings Show.'
Continue ReadingMichael Schwerner
American civil rights activist
Born
November 6th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1964 62 years ago — 24 years old
An American civil rights activist advocated for racial equality and social justice. Schwerner was involved in efforts to integrate schools and support voting rights for African Americans in the South during the Civil Rights Movement. In 1964, he helped organize the Freedom Summer campaign in Mississippi, which aimed to increase voter registration among African Americans. Schwerner, along with two other activists, was murdered by members of the Ku Klux Klan while working to register black voters. His death drew national attention to the struggles faced by civil rights workers and spurred legislative action.
Continue ReadingOda Nobunaga
Japanese warlord and military leader
Born
June 23rd, 1534 492 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1582 444 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent figure during the Sengoku period in Japan, this warlord played a crucial role in the unification of Japan. Initiated numerous military campaigns to consolidate power and extend territories. Implemented innovative military strategies and utilized firearms effectively in battles. Known for a ruthless approach to eliminate rivals and foster centralized governance, leading to the eventual unification of Japan under his successors.
Continue ReadingCarroll O'Connor
Actor best known for 'All in the Family'
Born
August 2nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2001 25 years ago — 76 years old
This American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter gained recognition for portraying Archie Bunker on the television series 'All in the Family'. The show aired from 1971 to 1979 and addressed social issues through its controversial humor. O'Connor's performance earned him several awards, including four Primetime Emmy Awards. In addition to his role on 'All in the Family', he starred in the spin-off series 'Archie Bunker's Place', further developing the character. He also appeared in films such as 'Kelly's Heroes' and 'The Heat of the Night'. O'Connor's contributions to television and film have left a lasting legacy in American culture.
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