Viktor Tsoi
Russian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Emerging from Leningrad, a significant figure in the Soviet rock scene, contributed to the genre through a blend of rock and new wave. Fronted the band Kino, which gained widespread popularity during the late 1980s. The band's music captured the sentiments of a generation seeking change and freedom amidst a restrictive political climate. Tsoi's songwriting and performance style resonated with youth, leading to an enduring legacy in Russian music. His song 'Gruppa Krovi' became emblematic of the era. Tsoi's life was tragically cut short in 1990 after a car accident, but his influence continued to shape Russian rock music posthumously.
Fronted the rock band Kino
Wrote the song 'Gruppa Krovi'
Other People Born on June 21st
David Kushnir
Israeli Olympic long-jumper
Born
June 21st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old
Competed in long jump events during the 1950s. Participated in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, representing Israel. Achieved personal bests in various competitions throughout the career, contributing to the growth of athletics in Israel. Engaged in promoting athletics in the country post-retirement.
Continue ReadingBenazir Bhutto
Pakistani politician, Prime Minister
Born
June 21st, 1953 72 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2007 17 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the 11th Prime Minister of Pakistan from 1988 to 1990 and again from 1993 to 1996. Bhutto was the first woman to head a democratic government in a majority Muslim nation. She led the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and held significant influence in the country's political landscape. Bhutto faced numerous challenges including political opposition and corruption allegations. She was exiled in the late 1990s and later returned to Pakistan to contest in the 2008 elections, which she was unable to participate in due to her assassination in December 2007.
Continue ReadingWilliam Vickrey
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 21st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 82 years old
An economist and academic contributed to the theory of incentive systems and auction design. Vickrey's work on the theory of second-price auctions established foundational concepts in auction theory. He received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1996 for his analysis of incentives under asymmetric information and for his contributions to auction theory. Vickrey served as a professor at Columbia University and was actively involved in various economic research initiatives throughout his career.
Continue ReadingSamuel Griffith
Politician, 9th Premier of Queensland
Born
June 21st, 1845 180 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1920 105 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Wales and later moving to Australia, served as the 9th Premier of Queensland from 1893 to 1898. Played a significant role in the drafting of the Australian Constitution, contributing to the establishment of the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. As a member of the Queensland Legislative Assembly, pushed for various reforms including land and electoral laws. Additionally, held the position of Chief Justice of Queensland, actively influencing the judicial landscape of the state.
Continue ReadingIrving Fein
Television and film producer
Born
June 21st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 101 years old
A prominent figure in television and film production, contributions included work on iconic television shows and the management of notable talent. Managed the careers of significant comedians and actors, shaping the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. Served as a producer for 'The Jack Benny Program' and produced various films and television specials that received acclaim. Established a reputation for fostering enduring partnerships in the entertainment realm.
Continue ReadingFernando Savater
Philosopher and author with notable essays
Born
June 21st, 1947 78 years ago
Born in 1947, this Spanish philosopher and author gained prominence through works that explore ethical and political themes. Advocated for secularism and pluralism, contributing significantly to contemporary philosophy and public debate in Spain. Worked as a professor and wrote extensively on various subjects, including education, freedom, and the value of human life. Engagement in public discourse included collaborating with media outlets, allowing philosophical ideas to reach a wider audience. Received accolades for literary contributions and influential essays.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 15th
Pierre Bouguer
French mathematician and geophysicist
Born
February 16th, 1698 327 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1758 267 years ago — 60 years old
A mathematician and geophysicist contributed to the development of hydrostatics and geodesy. His work included methods for measuring the shape and density of the Earth, as well as advancements in the understanding of light. Bouguer published 'Essai d'Optique' in 1729, laying foundational concepts in optical science. He also worked on the principles of buoyancy and is regarded as a pioneer in the study of gravity.
Continue ReadingLudwig Prandtl
Physicist and engineer, boundary layer theory
Born
February 4th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1953 72 years ago — 78 years old
An influential figure in the field of fluid dynamics and engineering, contributed to the development of boundary layer theory. Established the Prandtl number in fluid mechanics, which is pivotal for understanding heat transfer and fluid flow. Played a significant role in advancing aerodynamics, particularly related to aviation. His work laid the groundwork for future developments in both theoretical and applied fluid mechanics.
Continue ReadingKorechika Anami
Japanese general and Minister of War
Born
February 21st, 1887 138 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1945 80 years ago — 58 years old
Served as the 54th Minister of War in Japan during World War II. Played a crucial role in Japanese military strategy and policy. Actively participated in government and military discussions regarding the war efforts and the importance of maintaining Japan's defense capabilities. Contributed to various military campaigns and had a significant influence on military leadership as a general. Engaged in critical debates about Japan's future during the final years of the war.
Continue ReadingGunnar Birkerts
Architect recognized for spiritual spaces
Born
January 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2017 8 years ago — 92 years old
An architect with Latvian roots, undertook significant projects that emphasized light and space. Emigrated to the United States in 1949, where architectural career flourished. Designed notable buildings including the Latvian National Museum and the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Focused on creating structures that fostered a sense of spirituality and community through innovative designs.
Continue ReadingLan Han
Official of the Later Yan state
Died
August 15th, 398 1627 years ago — None years old
Served as an official during the Later Yan dynasty, a state established by the Xianbei people in the 4th century. Contributed to the administration and governance of the state during a period of significant turmoil and fragmentation in Northern China. Engaged in various military and political strategies to stabilize and strengthen the authority of the Later Yan amidst rival states. His tenure was marked by efforts to consolidate power and manage relations with neighboring territories.
Continue ReadingJulian Bond
American politician and civil rights leader
Born
January 14th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
An influential figure in the civil rights movement, this individual co-founded the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and played a vital role in organizing voter registration drives in the South. His political career included serving in the Georgia House of Representatives and the Georgia State Senate. This person was also the chairman of the NAACP and advocated for issues related to equality and social justice. In academia, this individual taught at several universities and was a prominent advocate for education and civil rights.
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