Tove Jansson
Finnish author and illustrator of Moomins
An author and illustrator gained recognition for creating the Moomin series, which includes beloved titles such as 'The Moomins and the Great Flood' and 'Finn Family Moomintroll'. Jansson's work combined elements of fantasy and adventure, with Moomins becoming cultural icons in various adaptations, including animation and comic strips. Besides her children's literature, she also wrote novels for adults, exploring themes of identity and isolation. Jansson’s artistic career included contributions to paintings and illustrations, showcasing her versatile talents. Her contribution to literature and art transformed Finnish storytelling and has been celebrated internationally.
Created the Moomin series
Published 'The Moomins and the Great Flood'
Produced work for both children and adults
Other People Born on August 9th
Alice Barlow
English actress in TV dramas
Born
August 9th, 1991 34 years ago
An English actress recognized for performance in various television series. Gained attention for roles in 'Hollyoaks' and appeared in 'The Bill.' Developed a reputation for engaging performances in both mainstream drama and local theater productions.
Continue ReadingLi Jiawei
Table tennis player; Olympic medalist
Born
August 9th, 1981 44 years ago
Born in Singapore, a prominent table tennis player achieved significant success in international competitions. Competed in three Olympic Games from 2000 to 2008. Captured a silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics as part of the women's team. Secured multiple medals at the World Table Tennis Championships, contributing to Singapore's standing in the sport.
Continue ReadingDipa Karmakar
Indian gymnast with Olympic participation
Born
August 9th, 1993 32 years ago
Competed in artistic gymnastics, achieving significant milestones in the sport. First Indian female gymnast to qualify for the Olympics, representing the country at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games. Clinched a bronze medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, showcasing elite performance on the international stage. Also secured recognition for executing the Produnova vault, regarded as one of the most difficult gymnastics moves.
Continue ReadingJoel Anthony
American basketball player, Miami Heat center
Born
August 9th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, played college basketball at UNLV. Entered the NBA in 2007, signed by the Miami Heat. Contributed to the team's success during the 2011 and 2012 seasons, winning back-to-back championships. Known for defensive skills and shot-blocking ability. Played for several other teams, including the Detroit Pistons and San Antonio Spurs, before retiring from professional play.
Continue ReadingMichael Kingma
Australian basketball player
Born
August 9th, 1979 46 years ago
Played professional basketball primarily in the Australian National Basketball League (NBL). Known for contributions to the Sydney Kings and other teams during a career that spanned over a decade. Participated in various international competitions, representing Australia at different levels.
Continue ReadingKermit Beahan
American Colonel and military officer
Born
August 9th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1989 36 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1918, this American colonel served in the United States Air Force. The officer became notable during World War II, participating in significant operations in the Pacific Theater. Beahan achieved the rank of Colonel and held important leadership roles during his military career. He contributed to strategic planning and execution of aerial missions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 27th
Ranjit Singh
Sikh Emperor of the Punjab
Born
November 13th, 1780 245 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1839 186 years ago — 58 years old
An influential leader in early 19th century India, this individual established the Sikh Empire in the Punjab region. Ascending to power in 1801, he united various Sikh misls and expanded the empire through military conquests. Under his reign, the region experienced significant economic and cultural development. A strong proponent of religious tolerance, he supported various faiths and promoted a sense of unity among his subjects. His efforts in modernizing the army and engaging in diplomatic relations with British and Afghan forces were notable. He is often referred to as the 'Lion of Punjab'.
Continue ReadingSam Manekshaw
Indian Field Marshal and military leader
Born
April 3rd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 94 years old
Achieved prominence as a senior commander in the Indian Army during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. The military career began in 1934, serving in World War II and later participating in various operations post-independence. Elevated to the rank of Field Marshal in 1973, he served as the Chief of Army Staff from 1969 to 1973, demonstrating strategic acumen in military planning and leadership. Manekshaw's approach to warfare emphasized the importance of morale and planning, which contributed to India's military successes.
Continue ReadingBud Spencer
Italian actor and screenwriter
Born
October 31st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2016 9 years ago — 86 years old
An Italian swimmer turned actor and screenwriter, gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s with a series of action-comedy films. Starred alongside Terence Hill in several successful movies, creating a signature style characterized by humor and physicality. Transitioned from athletics, where excelled as a competitive swimmer, influencing his later film roles. Established a production company, contributing to film development as a screenwriter.
Continue ReadingPeter L. Berger
Austrian sociologist and thought leader
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2017 8 years ago — 88 years old
This Austrian sociologist contributed significantly to the fields of sociology and theology. Berger's work explored the interplay of religion and society. He authored influential books, including 'The Social Construction of Reality,' which he co-wrote with Thomas Luckmann. Additionally, he examined the nature of modernity and the role of religion in a secular world. His theories on pluralism and secularization shaped contemporary sociological discourse.
Continue ReadingHermann Buhl
Austrian mountaineer, first ascent of Nanga Parbat
Born
September 21st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1957 68 years ago — 32 years old
Born in 1924, a prominent mountaineer from Austria. Made significant climbs in the Himalayas, including the first ascent of Nanga Parbat in 1953, which was notable for its extreme challenges. Renowned for completing several high-altitude solo ascents and developing techniques that would influence future mountaineers. Also achieved the first ascent of the difficult Broad Peak in 1957. Buhl's approach to climbing emphasized speed and personal endurance, which shifted the dynamics of high-altitude climbing during that era.
Continue ReadingJoseph Smith
Religious leader, founder of Mormonism
Born
December 23rd, 1805 220 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1844 181 years ago — 38 years old
Born on December 23, 1805, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Latter Day Saint movement, which emerged during the early 19th century in the United States. Received revelations that led to the publication of the Book of Mormon in 1830, a sacred text for followers. Organized the Church of Christ, which later became known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Led followers during periods of persecution and migration to the Utah Territory where the community would flourish. His leadership and teachings significantly shaped the religious landscape of the era until his martyrdom in 1844.
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