William Schallert
American actor and Screen Actors Guild president
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An American actor and prominent figure in the entertainment industry, had a career spanning over six decades. Acted in film, television, and theater, and played notable roles in popular series. Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1979 to 1981, advocating for the rights of actors during a transformative period in the industry. Participated in multiple television projects and films, establishing a recognizable presence on screen.
portrayed Martin Lane in 'The Patty Duke Show'
appeared in 'The Twilight Zone'
voiced characters in 'The Jetsons' and 'Avatar: The Last Airbender'
Other People Born on July 6th
George Armstrong
Canadian ice hockey player and coach
Born
July 6th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 1st, 2000 25 years ago — 70 years old
Played as a right winger in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Captained the Maple Leafs during their winning run in the 1960s, leading the team to four Stanley Cup championships. Transitioned into coaching after retirement and contributed to the development of young players in various programs. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in recognition of accomplishments in professional ice hockey.
Continue ReadingJohn Downer
Australian politician, 16th Premier of South Australia
Born
July 6th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1915 110 years ago — 72 years old
Served as the 16th Premier of South Australia from 1892 to 1893. Played a significant role in the establishment of various governmental systems and structures during the late 19th century. Engaged in the political landscape of South Australia, contributing to key policies and legislation. Was a member of the Legislative Assembly and actively involved in local governance, shaping the future of the state.
Continue ReadingEarle S. MacPherson
Engineer, creator of MacPherson strut
Born
July 6th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1960 66 years ago — 69 years old
An American engineer, contributed significantly to automotive suspension design. Developed the MacPherson strut, which became a standard in front suspension systems due to its efficiency and simplicity. The design enhanced vehicle handling, comfort, and manufacturing ease. Worked for the Nash-Kelvinator Corporation and was instrumental in the development of several automobile models. The MacPherson strut design is still widely used in various car brands.
Continue ReadingDella Reese
Actress and singer, starred in Touched by an Angel
Born
July 6th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old
An influential American actress and singer, a prominent figure in entertainment. Began a successful singing career in the 1950s with hits like 'Don't You Know?' before transitioning to acting. Achieved great recognition for portraying Tess in the television series 'Touched by an Angel', which aired from 1994 to 2003. The role garnered multiple award nominations and solidified a lasting legacy in television. Also had a successful career as a jazz and gospel singer, appearing on various music charts.
Continue ReadingWojciech Jaruzelski
Polish general and first President of Poland
Born
July 6th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
A Polish general and politician, served as the first President of Poland from 1989 to 1990. Held the position of Prime Minister during martial law in the early 1980s. Lead the country through a period of political transition following the fall of communism. Played a crucial role in managing the Solidarity movement.
Continue ReadingErik Wickberg
Swedish General of The Salvation Army
Born
July 6th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 92 years old
Served as the 9th General of The Salvation Army from 1963 to 1969. Played a significant role in the organization’s international leadership, promoting its mission of salvation and social service. Oversaw various humanitarian initiatives and expanded the Army’s outreach programs during tenure. Advocated for community support and social action aligned with the Church's values.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
Tore Svennberg
Swedish actor and film director
Born
February 28th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1941 85 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Sweden, a prominent figure in early cinema and theater. Worked extensively in film and stage productions, contributing to the growth of the arts in the region. Directed several films and participated in numerous theatrical performances, highlighting the evolution of Swedish entertainment. Also took part in the burgeoning movement of cinema during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing the artistic landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingFrank Bourne
British soldier, last Rorke's Drift survivor
Born
1854 172 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1945 81 years ago — 91 years old
Served as a soldier in the British Army during the Anglo-Zulu War. Fought at the Battle of Rorke's Drift in January 1879, a significant conflict in which British troops faced a larger Zulu force. Demonstrated exceptional bravery and skill in the defense of the post. Survived the battle and lived until 1945, becoming the last surviving participant of the event. Bourne's account of the battle contributed to historical understanding and remembrance of the conflict.
Continue ReadingAhmed Sanjar
Seljuk Sultan and military leader
Born
1086 940 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1157 869 years ago — 71 years old
Ruled as a Sultan of the Great Seljuk Empire during the 12th century, one of the last prominent rulers of the Seljuk dynasty. Established a brief reign characterized by military campaigns against various factions and significant control over Persian territories. Oversaw the expansion of the empire into regions of modern-day Iran and parts of Central Asia. Experienced defeats against rival states but maintained authority over important areas until the decline of Seljuk power.
Continue ReadingRoger L. Easton
American scientist, co-inventor of GPS
Born
April 30th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2014 12 years ago — 93 years old
A scientist co-invented the Global Positioning System (GPS), significantly advancing navigational technology. This system allows users to determine their precise location anywhere on Earth using satellite signals. Easton worked with a team at the Naval Research Laboratory during the 1960s, leading to the initial deployment of GPS technology. The system has since evolved and is widely used in military, commercial, and personal navigation.
Continue ReadingSamuel Chandler
English minister and theological author
Born
1693 333 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1766 260 years ago — 73 years old
Chandler served as an English minister and made significant contributions to theological literature. Active during the 18th century, he wrote extensively on various religious matters, including works related to dissenting opinions and the principles of Christianity. Chandler was instrumental in addressing issues pertinent to the Nonconformist religious community, often emphasizing the importance of reason and scriptural authority in faith. His writings reflected a commitment to clarify theological concepts and engage with contemporary debates within Christianity. Chandler's role extended beyond his writings, as he also engaged in public speaking and pastoral work, influencing both his congregation and the broader theological discourse of his time.
Continue ReadingJohn Beresford
Irish polo player and champion
Born
December 5th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1925 101 years ago — 58 years old
A leading figure in the sport of polo, played during the late 19th century. Achievements included participation in high-profile tournaments and contributions to the development of the sport in Ireland. Competed at a time when polo gained popularity among the British aristocracy and was involved in establishing polo clubs that fostered further interest in the sport.
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