Walter Ulbricht
German politician and leader of East Germany
Born in 1893, engaged in politics from an early age, becoming a significant figure in the German Communist Party. After World War II, played a crucial role in establishing the Socialist Unity Party, which led to the formation of the German Democratic Republic. Served as the First Secretary of the Socialist Unity Party from 1950 until 1973 and as the Chairman of the Council of State. Oversaw the construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961 to prevent emigration to West Germany. Integral in promoting the socialist agenda and aligning East Germany with the Soviet Union.
Led East Germany during its formative years
Oversaw the construction of the Berlin Wall
Other People Born on June 30th
Ryan Cook
Baseball pitcher and All-Star selection
Born
June 30th, 1987 38 years ago
Played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Debuted for the Oakland Athletics in 2012 and had a notable season in the same year, earning an All-Star selection. Contributed to the team reaching the playoffs during his tenure. Also played for the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Atlanta Braves, showcasing skills as a reliable reliever throughout different seasons.
Continue ReadingMichael Phelps
Olympic swimmer with 28 medals
Born
June 30th, 1985 40 years ago
A swimmer achieved unprecedented success in competitive swimming. Phelps competed in four Olympic Games from 2004 to 2016, becoming the most decorated Olympian of all time. He specialized in butterfly, freestyle, and individual medley events. Phelps holds world records in multiple events and won 23 gold medals during his Olympic career. His training regimen and performance techniques contributed to advancements in competitive swimming coaching and athlete preparation.
Continue ReadingEgils Levits
Latvian judge, jurist, and president
Born
June 30th, 1955 70 years ago
A prominent Latvian judicator and academic, served as the 10th President of Latvia from 2019. Specialized in constitutional law, contributed to the development of Latvia's legal framework after its restoration of independence. Actively engaged in European Union matters as a judge at the Court of Justice of the European Union from 2004 to 2014. Played a critical role in various legal reforms in Latvia and held significant positions within the Council of Europe.
Continue ReadingAsbel Kiprop
Middle-distance runner; 2008 Olympic gold
Born
June 30th, 1989 36 years ago
Specialized in the 1500 meters, achieved significant success in athletics. Secured a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and won three World Championship titles in the 1500 meters in 2009, 2011, and 2013. Competed professionally for many years, representing Kenya.
Continue ReadingTrea Turner
Professional baseball player, MLB All-Star
Born
June 30th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional baseball player recognized for skills as a shortstop and center fielder. Entered Major League Baseball (MLB) in 2015 with the Washington Nationals. Contributed to the Nationals' victory in the 2019 World Series. Played for the San Diego Padres and earned All-Star selections in 2021 with the Nationals and in 2022 with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Achieved a batting title in 2021 and finished among the league leaders in hits and stolen bases.
Continue ReadingJacksfilms
YouTuber and comedic content creator
Born
June 30th, 1988 37 years ago
This individual gained popularity through humorous videos, commentary, and sketches on the YouTube platform. Launched a successful channel focusing on interactive comedy and viewer participation. Created series like 'YIAY' (Yesterday I Asked You), engaging audiences with their creativity and wit. Regularly collaborated with other YouTubers and engaged in various online projects, enhancing visibility and reach within the digital community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 1st
Queen Anne of Romania
Queen consort of Romania, philanthropist
Born
September 18th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2016 9 years ago — 92 years old
Queen consort of Romania from 1921 to 1927, held significant influence during her time. Engaged in philanthropic efforts, focusing on healthcare and education. After the abdication of her husband, the royal family experienced exile, leading a life abroad for decades. Returned to Romania following the fall of communism and contributed to various charitable endeavors until her passing in 2016.
Continue ReadingShimazu Tadahisa
Japanese warlord, founder of Shimazu clan
Born
1179 847 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1227 798 years ago — 48 years old
A Japanese warlord active during the Kamakura period, established the Shimazu clan in Kyushu. Participated in military campaigns and played a significant role in regional conflicts. Developed strong influence in the region, leading to the expansion of the clan's territory. Contributed to the early formation of the warrior class in Japan.
Continue ReadingEva Bartok
Actress from 'The Ladykillers'
Born
June 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1998 27 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Hungary, an actress gained prominence in the 1950s. Moved to England where notable roles in film and television emerged. Featured in significant productions, including 'The Ladykillers' alongside Alec Guinness. Starred in numerous films that showcased talent across various genres. Later transitioned to television, appearing in popular series, and continued to work in the industry for several decades.
Continue ReadingPeter Julian Eymard
French Priest and founder of a religious order
Born
1811 215 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1869 156 years ago — 58 years old
A French priest established the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament in 1856, focusing on the adoration of the Eucharist. His work emphasized the importance of the Eucharist in Catholic life and aimed to promote spiritual devotion. Eymard dedicated life to educating others about the sacrament and fostering a deeper relationship with faith. The congregation he founded has been influential in various parts of the world, continuing his mission of spreading the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Continue ReadingWilford Brimley
American actor and Quaker Oats spokesman
Born
September 27th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2020 5 years ago — 85 years old
Birth occurred in 1934 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Began a career in acting during the 1970s, achieving prominence through both film and television. Featured in over 30 films, including key roles in "The Natural" and "Cocoon." Also appeared in the popular television series "Our House." Brimley was recognized for his distinct voice and rugged character portrayals. Spent years promoting diabetes awareness after being diagnosed with the illness.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Santi
Artist and father of Raphael
Died
August 1st, 1494 531 years ago — None years old
An artist active during the early Italian Renaissance, contributed to the development of the art style that influenced the next generation. Gained recognition for creating religious and mythological themes in painting. Established a workshop that helped foster talent, including that of his son, who would become a leading figure of the Renaissance. Also authored a treatise on painting, which discussed artistic technique and theory.
Continue Reading