Walter Dean Myers

Author and poet of young adult literature

Walter Dean Myers - Author and poet of young adult literature
Born

August 12th, 1937
87 years ago

Died

July 1st, 2014
11 years ago — 76 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An influential author and poet, recognized for contributions to young adult literature. Wrote over 100 works, including novels, picture books, and poetry. His literature often addressed themes of identity, race, and family. Authored the award-winning novel 'Monster,' which explores the life of a teenage boy on trial for murder. Served as a National Ambassador for Young People's Literature from 2012 to 2013, advocating for literacy and the importance of reading in youth.

Wrote 'Monster', which won the Michael L. Printz Award

Authored 'Before I Got Here' and 'Dope Sick'

Received the Coretta Scott King Award multiple times

Other People Born on August 12th

George IV of the United Kingdom

King of the United Kingdom
Born
August 12th, 1762 262 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1830 195 years ago — 67 years old

Ruled as King of the United Kingdom from 1820 until death in 1830. Became Prince Regent in 1811 due to the illness of his father, King George III. Oversaw significant changes in art, culture, and politics during the Regency era. His reign experienced ongoing conflicts with Parliament and challenges in governance. Notably associated with the construction of the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, which showcased extravagant architecture and design. His indulgent lifestyle became a subject of criticism and controversy.

Continue Reading

John Derek

Actor and director of films
Born
August 12th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1998 27 years ago — 71 years old

An actor and director with a career spanning several decades. Breakthrough roles included performances in 'All That Heaven Allows' and 'The Ten Commandments'. Transitioned into directing with films such as 'Fantomas' and 'Once Before I Die'. Also worked as a cinematographer, contributing to the visual style of his projects. Retained a prominence in Hollywood during the 1960s and 1970s.

Continue Reading

Guillermo Cano Isaza

Colombian journalist and editor
Born
August 12th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1986 38 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent Colombian journalist and editor, Cano Isaza focused on investigative reporting. He served as the director of the newspaper El Espectador. Cano Isaza covered issues related to violence and corruption in Colombia, particularly the drug trade. His work brought attention to the challenges facing the country during a turbulent period in its history. In 1986, he was murdered in Bogotá, a crime linked to his reporting on drug cartels.

Continue Reading

Tyson Fury

Boxer, WBC Heavyweight Champion
Born
August 12th, 1988 36 years ago

Acquired the WBC Heavyweight Championship title in 2020. In 2015, won the unified heavyweight title by defeating Wladimir Klitschko. Engaged in notable rivalries, including a trilogy against Deontay Wilder, with the final fight taking place in 2021, resulting in a decisive victory. Recognized for his unconventional fighting style, size, and agility in the ring.

Continue Reading

Jonathan Coachman

Sportscaster and professional wrestler
Born
August 12th, 1973 51 years ago

Became a prominent sportscaster after a career in professional wrestling. Began wrestling career in the late 1990s with World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), where contributed as a commentator and interviewer. Transitioned to sports broadcasting, where gained recognition as an anchor and host on ESPN. Developed a strong presence in the sports media landscape, earning accolades for insightful analysis and engaging presentation style.

Continue Reading

Ioan Dicezare

Romanian general and pilot
Born
August 12th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2012 12 years ago — 95 years old

Born in Romania, one individual served as a notable general and pilot during significant military conflicts. This individual rose to prominence in the Romanian Air Force and played a vital role in aerial operations. Through strategic command and piloting skills, various missions were undertaken successfully, contributing to the military efforts of the time. The military career spanned several decades, marked by participation in critical events that shaped the region's aviation history. After retirement from active service, contributions to aviation continued through training and mentorship of new generations of pilots.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 1st

Bidhan Chandra Roy

Indian physician and politician
Born
July 1st, 1882 143 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1962 63 years ago — 80 years old

An influential physician and politician served as the 2nd Chief Minister of West Bengal. Contributions to the health sector included establishing numerous healthcare institutions, which significantly advanced medical services in the region. Played a key role in the development of the educational system within West Bengal, focusing on healthcare and medical education. Actively participated in India's struggle for independence and later took part in governance, shaping state policies during his tenure.

Continue Reading

Totila

Ostrogoth King and military leader
Died
July 1st, 552 1473 years ago — None years old

Ruled as king of the Ostrogoths during the Byzantine-Ostrogothic War. Ascended to the throne around 541 and sought to restore the Ostrogothic kingdom in Italy. Conducted military campaigns against the Byzantine Empire, reclaiming significant territories. Implemented policies aimed at winning the support of the local population and promulgated relative stability during his reign. Died in battle against the Byzantine general Belisarius in 552, marking the decline of Ostrogothic power in Italy.

Continue Reading

Fritz Bauer

German lawyer and judge in Nazi trials
Born
July 16th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1968 57 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent German lawyer and judge, focused on post-World War II justice issues. Played a crucial role in the prosecution of Nazi war crimes. Initiated the Frankfurt Auschwitz trials, which aimed to address atrocities committed during the Holocaust. Advocated for accountability and legal reforms in the context of historical justice. His work highlighted the importance of legal mechanisms in confronting the legacy of the Nazi regime.

Continue Reading

Juan Perón

Argentinian politician and president
Born
October 8th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1974 51 years ago — 78 years old

An influential general and politician, served as the 29th President of Argentina during three terms. Initially rose to fame after becoming the Secretary of Labor and Social Welfare, implementing various labor reforms that gained support from the working class. His leadership marked the establishment of Peronism, a political ideology blending populism, nationalism, and social justice. Known for fostering strong ties with labor unions and enhancing workers' rights, his policies shaped Argentina's political landscape. His first presidency lasted from 1946 to 1955, during which significant industrial growth occurred. Ousted in a military coup, returned to power in 1973 only to pass away the following year.

Continue Reading

Michael Landon

Actor and director of Little House on the Prairie
Born
October 31st, 1936 88 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1991 34 years ago — 54 years old

Significant contributions to television as an actor, director, and producer included iconic roles in series such as Bonanza and Little House on the Prairie. Additionally, created and starred in Highway to Heaven, which combined drama with themes of redemption and spirituality. Achieved fame for the portrayal of complex characters that resonated with audiences over decades.

Continue Reading

Lady Saigō

Japanese concubine of Toyotomi Hideyoshi
Born
1552 473 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1589 436 years ago — 37 years old

Served as a concubine to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent daimyo during the Sengoku period. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Japan through this relationship. Contributed to the consolidation of power that characterized Hideyoshi's era, which led to the unification of Japan under his rule. The connection with Hideyoshi positioned her within the intricate court dynamics of the period and influenced various social and political interactions.

Continue Reading