William Sloane Coffin
American minister and peace activist
Born
Died
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent clergyman and social activist focused on civil rights and anti-war efforts. Served as senior minister at the Riverside Church in New York City. Advocated for nuclear disarmament and racial equality. Played a significant role in various social movements during the 20th century, addressing issues from civil rights to environmental concerns.
Served as senior minister at Riverside Church
Advocated against the Vietnam War
Participated in the Civil Rights Movement
Other People Born on June 1st
Nick Young
Basketball player, NBA champion
Born
June 1st, 1985 40 years ago
A professional basketball player, Young played in the NBA for multiple teams, including the Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, and Golden State Warriors. He was drafted 16th overall in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Wizards. Young earned a reputation as a prolific scorer, showcasing his shooting ability throughout his career. In 2015, he was a member of the Lakers team that won the NBA championship. Posting impressive scoring averages, he contributed to his teams' offensive efforts across various seasons before transitioning to a career in entertainment.
Continue ReadingRobert Newton
English actor with pirate roles
Born
June 1st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1956 69 years ago — 50 years old
Gained prominence as an English actor in film and theater. Achieved significant recognition for the portrayal of Long John Silver in the adaptations of 'Treasure Island'. Also appeared in 'Oliver Twist' and 'The Riddle of the Sands'. Emphasized distinctive character roles marked by a strong Cockney accent and was often typecast in villainous parts.
Continue ReadingMiller Bolaños
Ecuadoran footballer and national team standout
Born
June 1st, 1990 35 years ago
Born in 1990, this Ecuadoran footballer played as a forward. Developed his career with several clubs, making significant contributions in domestic leagues. Achieved success in the international arena, representing Ecuador in multiple Copa América tournaments and the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Gained recognition for his performance in notable competitions, leading to his selection for prominent teams in Ecuador and abroad. Known for his speed, agility, and goal-scoring ability, played pivotal roles in various matches.
Continue ReadingMikhail Glinka
Russian composer of classical music
Born
June 1st, 1804 221 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1857 168 years ago — 52 years old
Glinka was a pivotal figure in the development of Russian classical music. His compositions, including operas and orchestral works, laid the groundwork for future generations of Russian composers. 'A Life for the Tsar' and 'Ruslan and Lyudmila' are among the most significant operas, showcasing national themes and folklore within a classical framework. Glinka's innovative use of melody and harmony profoundly influenced contemporaries and successors.
Continue ReadingTyrone Roberts
Rugby league player, Gold Coast Titans
Born
June 1st, 1991 34 years ago
Born in Australia, a professional rugby league player played as a halfback. Played for Gold Coast Titans in the National Rugby League (NRL) and represented New South Wales Country Origin. Contributed to the team's offensive strategies and was part of significant matches during his career.
Continue ReadingMoses Ndiema Masai
Kenyan long-distance runner, Olympic athlete
Born
June 1st, 1986 39 years ago
Specialized in long-distance running events, predominantly in the 10,000 meters. Competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, representing Kenya. Achieved prominence in various international competitions, including victories in the World Cross Country Championships. Contributed to the Kenyan dominance in long-distance races during the late 2000s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 12th
Harvey Ball
Illustrator who created the smiley face
Born
July 10th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 79 years old
An American illustrator created the smiley face in 1963 as part of a campaign to improve morale at an insurance company. The design quickly gained popularity and became a cultural icon. The simple and recognizable image has appeared in various forms over the decades, becoming a symbol of happiness and positivity. Ball also founded a company that promoted this icon and its various adaptations in merchandise, further embedding the smiley face into popular culture.
Continue ReadingJacques-Bénigne Bossuet
French bishop and influential theologian
Born
September 27th, 1627 398 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1704 321 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent French bishop and theologian, played a significant role in the Catholic Church during the 17th century. Bossuet served as the tutor to the Dauphin of France and became renowned for eloquent sermons and writings that defended the doctrine of divine right of kings. His works contributed to the development of the French episcopal church and influenced political thought in France. He engaged in theological debates and emphasized the importance of absolute monarchy, aligning with the beliefs of Louis XIV. Although deeply religious, Bossuet's writings also addressed historical criticism and the relationship between faith and reason.
Continue ReadingRobert Byrne
Chess player and author
Born
April 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
A chess player and author, contributions included participation in multiple U.S. Championship tournaments and authorship of instructional books on chess. Achieved the title of International Grandmaster and became a two-time U.S. Chess Champion. Involved in promoting chess through writing and playing, with published works that focused on strategy and tactics in the game. Contributed to chess literature, enhancing understanding and appreciation of chess.
Continue ReadingCharles Messier
French astronomer specializing in comet cataloging
Born
June 26th, 1730 295 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1817 208 years ago — 86 years old
An astronomer and academic focused on comet studies. Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy in the 18th century. Created the Messier catalog, which lists over 100 astronomical objects. This catalog helped distinguish between comets and fixed celestial bodies. Messier's work laid the foundation for modern astronomical observations and discoveries.
Continue ReadingTarvaris Jackson
American football quarterback
Born
April 21st, 1983 42 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2020 5 years ago — 36 years old
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for several teams including the Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, Buffalo Bills, and the Arizona Cardinals. Selected in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Vikings. Played a key role in the Vikings' journey to the playoffs in the 2008 season. Also served as a backup quarterback for the Seahawks during their Super Bowl XLVIII championship win in 2014. Concluded career with notable performances and contributions to various teams until retiring from professional football.
Continue ReadingCharlie Murphy
American actor and comedian; Chappelle's Show
Born
July 12th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 57 years old
An actor and comedian, gained prominence through stand-up comedy and notable television appearances. Gained attention for performances on the sketch comedy show 'Chappelle's Show', where iconic sketches featured alongside Dave Chappelle. Also appeared in films such as 'Night at the Museum' and 'The Nutty Professor'. Worked as a writer and performer, contributing to various comedy projects throughout a career spanning several decades.
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