Walter Rodney
Guyanese historian and activist
An influential historian, scholar, and activist contributed significantly to the understanding of Caribbean history and colonialism. Authored the book "How Europe Underdeveloped Africa," which critically examined the impact of European colonialism on African economies. Rodney's activism included mobilizing for worker rights and pan-African unity. His political involvement led to his expulsion from Guyana in 1968 due to his opposition to the government. Later, he continued his academic and political work in Jamaica and other countries, advocating for social justice and historical awareness.
Authored "How Europe Underdeveloped Africa"
Mobilized for worker rights in Guyana
Opposed the Guyanese government leading to expulsion
Other People Born on March 23rd
Eleanor Cameron
Children's author and literary critic
Born
March 23rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1996 29 years ago — 84 years old
A Canadian-American author focused on children's literature, became renowned for the writing of fantasy and science fiction for young audiences. First published in the late 1940s, title 'The Green and Golden Age' gained significant recognition. Contributed to literary criticism, reviewing and analyzing children's books, which helped shape the understanding of children's literature. Involved in various educational initiatives aimed at promoting reading among children and was influential in the literary community.
Continue ReadingKyrie Irving
Professional basketball player
Born
March 23rd, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, this basketball player gained prominence in the NBA as a guard. Drafted first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2011, he won an NBA Championship in 2016. He played a key role in the Cavaliers' historic comeback in the Finals against the Golden State Warriors by hitting the game-winning shot in Game 7. After his tenure with the Cavaliers, he played for the Boston Celtics and later joined the Brooklyn Nets. Throughout his career, he was recognized for his exceptional ball-handling skills and scoring ability, earning multiple selections to the NBA All-Star Game.
Continue ReadingGordon Hayward
Professional basketball player with All-Star status
Born
March 23rd, 1990 35 years ago
Played college basketball for Butler University, leading the team to the NCAA Championship game in 2010. Selected 9th overall in the 2010 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz. Played for the Jazz until 2017, earning an NBA All-Star selection in 2017. Signed with the Boston Celtics in 2017, where he contributed to playoff runs, including the Eastern Conference Finals. In 2020, signed with the Charlotte Hornets.
Continue ReadingNils-Aslak Valkeapää
Finnish singer and author of 'Siida'
Born
March 23rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2001 24 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in Sámi culture, contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of Sámi music and literature. Worked as a director and an author, focusing on the traditional and contemporary aspects of Sámi identity. Created works that highlight Sámi folklore and themes. The artistic expression incorporated in various forms, including performance and poetry, received attention both locally and internationally. Valkeapää's contributions emphasized the importance of cultural heritage and identity for the Sámi people.
Continue ReadingShelley 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 ReadingJan Lisiecki
Canadian pianist acclaimed for concertos
Born
March 23rd, 1995 30 years ago
A Canadian pianist gained recognition for exceptional talent at a young age. Began piano studies at age five and made concert debut at age 9. Gained international attention through performances with renowned orchestras and participation in prestigious music festivals. Toured extensively across Europe and North America. Released several acclaimed albums, showcasing works by composers such as Chopin and Beethoven, which received critical acclaim.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 13th
Mahdi Elmandjra
Economist and sociologist
Born
March 13th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
June 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Morocco, an economist and sociologist focused on economic development and social issues in the Arab world. Elmandjra contributed to the understanding of the relationship between society and economic structures. Played a significant role in various academic and political spheres, influencing policy discussions in Morocco and beyond. Worked to promote sustainable development and social justice through research and public engagement. Published works and articles that addressed critical issues in economics and sociology.
Continue ReadingMike Shrimpton
Cricketer and coach from New Zealand
Born
June 23rd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 13th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
Debuted in first-class cricket for Otago in 1960, playing as a right-handed batsman and occasional right-arm medium pace bowler. Represented New Zealand in Test cricket from 1965 to 1968, participating in six Test matches. After retiring from playing, took on coaching roles, contributing to the development of cricket in New Zealand. Notably coached the New Zealand under-19 team.
Continue ReadingGeorg von Békésy
Biophysicist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
June 3rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1972 53 years ago — 73 years old
A Hungarian-American biophysicist contributed to the understanding of sound perception through research on the inner ear. Developed the traveling wave theory of the cochlea, which explained how sound waves propagate and are processed in the auditory system. Held a position at Harvard University and contributed significantly to the field of auditory physiology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1961 for discoveries concerning the physical properties of the cochlea.
Continue ReadingJohn Cox Bray
Australian politician, 15th Premier of South Australia
Born
May 31st, 1842 183 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1894 131 years ago — 52 years old
Served as the 15th Premier of South Australia from 1890 to 1892. Played a significant role in advancing political reforms and education within the state. Contributed to the establishment of various institutions and legislation aimed at improving governance and public welfare. Engaged in the political landscape of Australia during a time of significant change and development in the 19th century.
Continue ReadingRobert Peters
American poet and playwright
Born
October 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1924, a significant figure in American literature, particularly in poetry and drama. His work often reflected complex themes and explored the intersection of personal experience and broader societal issues. Peters published several poetry collections, revealing a deep intuition for the craft. He also wrote critically acclaimed plays that were staged in various theaters across the United States. As a critic, he contributed to the understanding and appreciation of contemporary literature through essays and reviews. His teaching roles in universities enriched the study of creative writing and poetry.
Continue ReadingHenry Segrave
Race car driver and land speed record holder
Born
September 22nd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1930 95 years ago — 33 years old
Born in 1896, a race car driver achieved significant success in the 1920s. Competed in various international events, including the 1923 French Grand Prix. Set multiple land speed records on the Southport Sands. In 1929, became the first person to break the 200 mph barrier, cementing a legacy in automotive history. His career was cut short when a fatal accident occurred during a race in 1930.
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