Viktor Korchnoi

Chess player, 1974 World Chess Championship runner-up

Viktor Korchnoi - Chess player, 1974 World Chess Championship runner-up
Born

March 23rd, 1931
94 years ago

Died

June 6th, 2016
9 years ago — 85 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Russia

Links & References

A prominent chess player, noted for competitive play spanning several decades. Achieved international acclaim as a contender in multiple World Chess Championships, particularly in 1974 against Anatoly Karpov. Contributed to chess literature through several books analyzing openings and endgames. Emigrated from the Soviet Union to Switzerland in the 1970s, influencing the chess community and promoting chess education.

Finished as runner-up in the 1974 World Chess Championship

Won the 1964 Candidates Tournament

Authored numerous chess books

Other People Born on March 23rd

Shelley Rudman

Bobsledder and Olympic medalist
Born
March 23rd, 1981 44 years ago

A bobsledder represented England in international competitions. Achieved a significant milestone by securing a silver medal in the women's skeleton event at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. Competed in various World Cup events and consistently performed well, contributing to the sport's visibility in England. Transitioned from skeleton to bobsleigh later in her career and continued to participate in the sport at high levels.

Continue Reading

Roger Bannister

Middle-distance athlete, first sub-4 minute miler
Born
March 23rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2018 7 years ago — 88 years old

An English middle-distance athlete achieved global recognition for running the first official sub-four-minute mile on May 6, 1954, with a time of 3 minutes 59.4 seconds at Iffley Road Track in Oxford. This historic feat marked a significant milestone in athletics. After retiring from competitive running, pursued a career in medicine, becoming a neurologist. Contributed to the medical community through research and teaching.

Continue Reading

Joel Kiviranta

Finnish ice hockey player, Dallas Stars forward
Born
March 23rd, 1996 29 years ago

Born in 1996, this Finnish ice hockey player gained recognition in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a forward for the Dallas Stars. Playing junior hockey in Finland, developed skills that led to a professional career in North America. In the 2019-2020 NHL season, contributed to the Stars' run to the Stanley Cup Final, scoring crucial goals during the playoffs. The player also participated in international competitions, representing Finland in various youth tournaments.

Continue Reading

Donald Campbell

Racing driver and speed record holder
Born
March 23rd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1967 58 years ago — 45 years old

A racing driver focused on land and water speed records, achieved significant successes during the 1950s and 1960s. Set and broke multiple world speed records on both water and land, utilizing vehicles like the Bluebird K7 and Bluebird CN7. Tragically died in an accident while attempting a world water speed record in 1967.

Continue Reading

Barry Cryer

Comedian and screenwriter, wrote for TV
Born
March 23rd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent British comedian, actor, and screenwriter, Cryer began his career in the 1950s and was a regular contributor to radio and television shows. He gained recognition for his work on 'The Two Ronnies' and 'Countdown.' Throughout his career, he collaborated with many notable figures in comedy and entertainment, contributing to numerous sketches, jokes, and scripts. Cryer also performed stand-up comedy and was a frequent guest on various talk shows and panel programs, showcasing his wit and humor. His legacy in British comedy is marked by a long-standing presence in the industry, along with his role in shaping modern comedic writing.

Continue Reading

Madeleine de Bourbon-Busset

Duchess of Parma and writer
Born
March 23rd, 1898 127 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1984 41 years ago — 86 years old

Born into the Bourbon family, held the title of Duchess of Parma. Contributed to literature and wrote several works reflecting on her noble heritage and family history. Engaged in activities that preserved her family's legacy and was involved in various cultural initiatives. Influenced the resurgence of interest in historical narratives related to French nobility.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 6th

Antonio Cachia

Maltese architect and archaeologist
Born
1739 286 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1813 212 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of architecture and archaeology in Malta. Worked extensively on projects that involved the restoration and preservation of historical sites. Engaged in archaeological excavations that uncovered important artifacts and structures, providing insights into Malta's ancient history. Wrote reports and publications detailing findings and theories regarding Maltese prehistory.

Continue Reading

Yuan Shikai

Chinese general and politician, President
Born
September 16th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1916 109 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1859, a military leader and politician played a crucial role in the late Qing dynasty and early Republic of China. Served as a general during the First Sino-Japanese War and later became the first President of the Republic of China. Played a significant role in the overthrow of the Qing dynasty and the establishment of a new republic. His attempt to establish himself as emperor in 1915 led to political instability and opposition from other factions, ultimately resulting in his resignation in 1916. His presidency was marked by challenges in consolidating power in a fragmented political landscape.

Continue Reading

Yves Klein

French painter of monochrome works
Born
April 28th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1962 63 years ago — 34 years old

An influential figure in the post-war art movement, this painter developed a distinctive style characterized by bold colors and innovative techniques. In 1956, he created the International Klein Blue, a deep shade of ultramarine that became signature to his work. The artist’s practice included performance art as well as the use of fire and water in his creative processes, establishing a connection between visual art and physical experience. His work challenged traditional perceptions of art and materiality, solidifying a legacy that would influence generations of artists.

Continue Reading

João de Castro

Viceroy of Portuguese India
Born
February 7th, 1500 525 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1548 477 years ago — 48 years old

Served as the viceroy of Portuguese India from 1545 until 1548. Implemented significant administrative reforms and aimed for better relations with local rulers. Oversaw naval expeditions to secure Portuguese trade routes and territories in the Indian Ocean. Renowned for his strategic vision and contributions to maritime governance.

Continue Reading

Abu Musa Utamish

Vizier to the Abbasid Caliphate
Died
June 6th, 863 1162 years ago — None years old

Served as a vizier during the Abbasid Caliphate, playing a significant role in the administration and governance of the empire. Contributed to the consolidation of power within the central government and was involved in political maneuvering during a time of considerable turmoil. His tenure included managing various state affairs and interfacing with key political figures of the period.

Continue Reading

Gerhart Hauptmann

German playwright and Nobel laureate
Born
November 15th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1946 79 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent German novelist, poet, and playwright, received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1912. Hauptmann's literary career began in the late 19th century, contributing significantly to the naturalism movement. His notable works include the drama 'Die Weber' which depicts the struggles of weavers in 1844 Silesia, and 'Vor Sonnenuntergang,' which explores themes of social decay and family conflict. Hauptmann's influence extended to various theatrical styles and he was a key figure in German literature.

Continue Reading