Wes Montgomery
Jazz guitarist and influential songwriter
An American guitarist recognized for pioneering the use of thumb picking and octaves in jazz music. Montgomery began his professional career in the 1940s and gained significant attention in the 1960s. His style blended jazz with elements of blues and pop, resulting in a unique sound that influenced generations of guitarists. Major albums included 'The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery' and 'Road Song'. His innovative techniques and compositions left a lasting mark on jazz guitar.
Released influential albums like 'The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery'
Pioneered the thumb picking technique in jazz guitar
Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame
Other People Born on March 6th
George Pocock
English Admiral and naval leader
Born
March 6th, 1706 319 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1792 233 years ago — 86 years old
Served as an admiral in the Royal Navy during the 18th century. Played a significant role in naval operations during the War of Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Participated in several key battles that contributed to British naval dominance.
Continue ReadingAlbert Tessier
Canadian priest and historian
Born
March 6th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1976 49 years ago — 81 years old
Ordained as a priest, contributed significantly to historical research, particularly on Canadian history. Authored numerous works that focused on the religious and cultural history of Canada. Served in various roles within the church, promoting theological education and community engagement. His research and writings offered insights into the role of religion in shaping Canadian society.
Continue ReadingWillie Stargell
Baseball player for the Pittsburgh Pirates
Born
March 6th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2001 24 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1940, this former baseball player played primarily for the Pittsburgh Pirates in Major League Baseball. His career spanned from 1962 to 1982, during which he became a key player for the team. He was instrumental in leading the Pirates to two World Series championships in 1971 and 1979. After retiring, transitioned into coaching roles, sharing knowledge and experience with younger players. The player's contribution to the game was recognized with induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1988.
Continue ReadingGeorg Luger
Austrian gun designer, Luger pistol creator
Born
March 6th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
1923 102 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Austria in 1849, a significant contribution to firearms design emerged with the creation of the Luger pistol. The design became renowned for its distinctive toggle-lock mechanism and ergonomic grip. Developed initially for the German military, the Luger pistol saw widespread use across various armed forces and became a popular sidearm in the 20th century. Luger's engineering principles influenced subsequent firearm development.
Continue ReadingCyprien Ntaryamira
Burundian politician, 5th President
Born
March 6th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1994 31 years ago — 39 years old
Born in 1955, served as the 5th President of Burundi, holding office from 1994 until his assassination in 1994. His presidency coincided with a tumultuous period in Burundian history, marked by civil conflict. Before presidency, worked in various government roles, including as Minister of Transport and Communications. His leadership faced significant challenges amid ethnic tensions in the country.
Continue ReadingAntoine-Henri Jomini
Military theorist and Napoleonic general
Born
March 6th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1869 156 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1779 in Switzerland, a military officer and theorist contributed significantly to the development of military strategy during the Napoleonic Wars. He served in the French army and was a key figure in the writing of military doctrine. Jomini emphasized the principles of war, notably lines of operations and the role of decisive battles, and his works became foundational texts in military education. After the fall of Napoleon, Jomini held various military roles in the Russian Army and continued to publish influential writings on military strategy until his death in 1869.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 15th
Herb Pearson
New Zealand cricketer and coach
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2006 19 years ago — 96 years old
An accomplished cricketer from New Zealand, played as a right-handed batsman and an occasional right-arm medium pace bowler. Had a significant career that included participation in the domestic circuit and international matches representing New Zealand. Contributed to coaching roles after retirement, helping to develop future generations of cricketers. Recognized for dedication to the sport and mentorship.
Continue ReadingMeredith Willson
Playwright and composer of The Music Man
Born
May 18th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1984 41 years ago — 82 years old
A composer and playwright created the Broadway musical The Music Man, which premiered in 1957. The show followed a con man named Harold Hill who posed as a band leader in a small Iowa town. Willson also wrote the successful musical-notes for several other works, including The Unsinkable Molly Brown. His background in music, as a conductor and musician, greatly influenced his creative output and compositional style. Willson's contributions to the arts have been recognized through numerous awards including Tony Awards for his work. His legacy continues through the enduring popularity of The Music Man, which remains a staple in theater productions worldwide.
Continue ReadingHenri Alekan
Cinematographer of 'La Belle et la Bête'
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2001 24 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent French cinematographer, contributions spanned several decades, beginning in the 1940s. Work included collaboration with notable directors and participation in films that became significant in the history of cinema. Gained recognition for innovative cinematographic techniques. Contributed to projects across various genres, working predominantly within French cinema. The visually striking approach in films captured the artistic essence of the narratives, with some projects receiving critical acclaim.
Continue ReadingJohn Connally
American politician and Treasury Secretary
Born
February 27th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1993 32 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 39th Governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969. Held the position of 61st United States Secretary of the Treasury from 1971 to 1972. Played a significant role in the economic policies of the Nixon administration, including the introduction of wage and price controls. Associated with the Democratic and later the Republican party during his political career.
Continue ReadingElla Fitzgerald
Jazz singer and Grammy winner
Born
April 25th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1996 29 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1917, a prominent jazz singer emerged, recognized for exceptional vocal skills and improvisational ability. Achievements included collaborations with notable musicians such as Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong. Fitzgerald's discography features iconic albums like 'Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Duke Ellington Songbook' and 'Ella and Louis'. Through a prolific career, she received numerous accolades, including 14 Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Continue ReadingSuzanne Flon
French actress in film and theater
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent French actress, gained recognition in both cinema and theater. Made significant contributions to the performing arts, especially in the 20th century. Starred in celebrated films such as 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame' (1956) where portrayal of Madame de Gèneviève received critical acclaim. Also known for her role in 'Les Misérables' (1982). Honored with several prestigious awards throughout the career, including a César Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1978 for the film 'The Emmanuelle's'.
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