Walter Dean Myers
Author and poet of young adult literature
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
Matt Gillett
Rugby league player, Australian Kangaroos
Born
August 12th, 1988 37 years ago
Played as a second-row forward in rugby league. Competed for the Brisbane Broncos in the National Rugby League (NRL) and represented Australia at the international level. Achieved notable success in both club and international competitions, contributing to team victories and earning personal accolades throughout the career.
Continue ReadingPark Yong-ha
South Korean actor starring in Winter Sonata
Born
August 12th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 33 years old
An actor in the South Korean entertainment industry, gained popularity through roles in television dramas and films. Achieved widespread recognition for the lead role in the series 'Winter Sonata,' which contributed to the Hallyu wave, promoting Korean culture internationally. In addition to acting, pursued a career in music and released several albums. Participated in various stage productions and received multiple awards for acting talent throughout the career.
Continue ReadingJesper Grønkjær
Danish footballer, played for Ajax
Born
August 12th, 1977 48 years ago
A professional footballer from Denmark, had a career that spanned multiple top European leagues. Played primarily as a winger. Started at local club Skjold, then moved to Copenhagen before joining Ajax, where he gained attention. Transferred to various clubs including VfB Stuttgart and Chelsea. Concluded playing career at Birmingham City and had significant international appearances for the Danish national team.
Continue ReadingTony Capaldi
Footballer with Cardiff City achievements
Born
August 12th, 1981 44 years ago
Born in Norway and raised in Northern Ireland, a footballer played primarily as a left-back. Professional career began at Southampton FC before moving to Cardiff City, where significant contributions helped the team secure promotions and reach the FA Cup final in 2008. Later played for various clubs including Derry City and Newry City. Represented Northern Ireland at the international level, earning multiple caps during participation in various qualifying campaigns.
Continue ReadingMaggie Lawson
American actress known for Psych
Born
August 12th, 1980 45 years ago
Acted in the television series Psych, portraying the character Juliet O'Hara. Appeared in various projects including the film Pleasantville and the series Instrument of War. Played significant roles in other shows such as Two and a Half Men and the Lifetime movie The List. Developed a following for comedic and dramatic performances across multiple platforms.
Continue ReadingTerry Nutkins
Television host and wildlife expert
Born
August 12th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 66 years old
Worked extensively in wildlife television, particularly noted for contributions to educational programs. Led the popular children's show 'The Really Wild Show' for several years, providing insights into nature and animals. Authored several books aimed at young audiences, emphasizing wildlife education. Also worked on other series such as 'Wildlife with Terry Nutkins' and participated in numerous documentaries, engaging viewers with his enthusiasm for nature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 1st
Ernst Röhm
Nazi Party leader and SA chief
Born
November 28th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1934 91 years ago — 46 years old
Born in Germany, a soldier and politician emerged as a prominent figure in the early years of the Nazi Party. Played a key role in the establishment and expansion of the Sturmabteilung (SA), a paramilitary organization that supported Nazi activities. Instrumental in asserting Nazi influence through street violence and intimidation of political opponents. Held significant power within the party and was an ally of Adolf Hitler during the rise of the Third Reich. His growing influence led to concerns among other party leaders, contributing to internal conflicts within the Nazi hierarchy. Executed during the Night of the Long Knives in 1934, which marked a pivotal moment in the consolidation of power by Hitler.
Continue ReadingFrank Verner
American Runner, 1908 Olympic Competitor
Born
June 24th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1966 59 years ago — 83 years old
Competed in athletics, specializing in distance running. Participated in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London, representing the United States. Achieved notable performance in the marathon event, contributing to the early recognition of American long-distance runners on the world stage.
Continue ReadingWally Hammond
English cricketer and coach, Test captain
Born
June 19th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1965 60 years ago — 62 years old
Played Test cricket for England from 1920 to 1947. Captained the team and had a successful coaching career. Accumulated over 7,000 runs in Test matches, including 22 centuries. Utilized strong batting skills, contributing significantly to England's cricketing achievements.
Continue ReadingRobert Towne
Screenwriter of 'Chinatown'
Born
November 23rd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2024 1 years ago — 89 years old
An American screenwriter, director, and actor, recognized for the screenplay of 'Chinatown', a landmark film in American cinema. This work earned an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Towne also directed the film 'Tequila Sunrise' and wrote for several other significant projects, including 'The Last Detail' and 'Mission: Impossible'. His contributions to the film industry include not only writing but also significant roles in various productions throughout the years.
Continue ReadingWilliam H. Gray
American politician and lawyer in Congress
Born
August 20th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman representing Pennsylvania from 1979 to 1991. Played a significant role in the Democratic Party and held leadership positions, including Majority Whip. Focused on issues such as education and housing during tenure. After leaving Congress, worked as an executive at a major financial institution and continued involvement in various civic activities.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Friedemann Bach
German composer of Baroque music
Born
November 22nd, 1710 315 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1784 241 years ago — 73 years old
A composer during the late Baroque period, contributed significantly to the development of instrumental music and forms. Son of Johann Sebastian Bach, composed in a range of styles and genres, showcasing a unique voice among contemporaries. His works included symphonies, chamber music, and keyboard compositions, many of which reflect complex counterpoint and expressive melodies. Held positions at several courts and churches throughout Germany, cultivated a reputation as a skilled organist.
Continue Reading