Willie Davenport
American hurdler, Olympic gold medalist
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Competed in track and field, specializing in the 110-meter hurdles. Achieved notable success during the 1960s and 1970s, representing the United States at multiple international competitions. Won a gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Participated in the Olympic Games in 1964, 1968, and 1972, securing a bronze medal in the 1972 Munich Olympics. His contributions to the sport include setting personal records and competing at national levels, influencing future generations of hurdlers.
Winning gold in the 110-meter hurdles at the 1968 Olympics
Securing bronze in the 110-meter hurdles at the 1972 Olympics
Other People Born on June 8th
Karl Genzken
German physician and medical researcher
Born
June 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1957 68 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Germany, contributions to medicine focused on pneumology. Instrumental in the development of therapies treating respiratory diseases, including tuberculosis. Held significant roles in various medical societies, promoting advancements in respiratory care. Published numerous articles and research papers, enhancing understanding of lung diseases and their treatments. Through dedicated work, influenced medical practices in the early to mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingGeorge Pell
Cardinal and Vatican official
Born
June 8th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 82 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1966, served as the Bishop of Melbourne and the Archbishop of Sydney, becoming a prominent figure within the Catholic Church. Appointed as a Cardinal in 2003 and later became the Prefect for the Secretariat for the Economy at the Vatican. Was influential in financial reforms within the Church. Involved in various controversies regarding sexual abuse allegations and faced a conviction in Australia, which was later overturned. Contributed to theological discussions and represented the Church in multiple international events.
Continue ReadingMimi Mariani
Indonesian actress, model, singer
Born
June 8th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1928, this Indonesian figure gained prominence in the entertainment industry. As an actress, she participated in several films during the golden age of Indonesian cinema. Her career also encompassed modeling and singing, contributing to her recognition across multiple media. With a passion for the performing arts, she became a beloved icon in Indonesia, showcasing her talents on screen and in live performances.
Continue ReadingEmperor Xizong of Tang
Chinese Emperor during the Tang Dynasty
Born
June 8th, 862 1163 years ago
Ascended to the throne in 874 during a tumultuous period for the Tang Dynasty. Relied heavily on eunuchs and had little control over the administration. The empire faced internal strife, with regional warlords gaining power amid a weakening central authority. Xizong's reign saw significant military struggles, particularly against uprisings from various factions, including the Huang Chao Rebellion. In 888, Xizong's reign ended with his death, and the dynasty continued to decline in the following years.
Continue ReadingSônia Braga
Brazilian actress known for 'Moon Over Parador'
Born
June 8th, 1950 75 years ago
An acclaimed Brazilian actress and producer, notable contributions include starring roles in cinema and television. Achievements span several decades, with significant work in both Brazil and the United States. Gained international attention with performances in films such as 'Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands' and 'Moon Over Parador'. Additionally, performed in the American series 'The Good Fight'. Recognized for ability to portray complex characters and has earned multiple awards throughout her career.
Continue ReadingKim Clijsters
Tennis player; six-time Grand Slam champion
Born
June 8th, 1983 42 years ago
This Belgian tennis player achieved significant success throughout the career. Initially gaining prominence in the early 2000s, she won her first Grand Slam title at the 2002 US Open. After briefly retiring in 2007, a comeback in 2009 led to further accomplishments, including two additional US Open titles and triumphs at the Australian Open and the French Open. Clijsters was known for powerful groundstrokes and an all-court game, excelling in both singles and doubles categories and securing a total of six Grand Slam singles titles.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 17th
Bob Sweikert
Race car driver and Indianapolis 500 winner
Born
May 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1956 69 years ago — 30 years old
An accomplished race car driver from the United States, achieved notable success in the 1950s. Sweikert won the Indianapolis 500 in 1955, earning recognition within the racing community. He participated in numerous events across the United States, demonstrating skill and competitiveness on various tracks. His racing career included several victories in AAA championship races, contributing to his reputation as a talented driver.
Continue ReadingRalf Dahrendorf
Sociologist and politician in the UK
Born
May 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Germany, a sociologist and politician became a prominent figure in British academia and politics after immigrating to the UK. He served as a member of the House of Lords and held the title of Baron Dahrendorf. His academic career included positions at the London School of Economics and the University of Konstanz. Dahrendorf contributed to social theory and political philosophy, publishing extensively on topics such as social conflict and democracy. He was involved in various public policy discussions and initiatives, focusing on the relationship between society and governance.
Continue ReadingArnold S. Relman
Physician and medical journal editor
Born
June 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent physician and academic, focused on internal medicine and medical ethics. Served as the editor of The New England Journal of Medicine from 1977 to 1991, influencing medical publishing and practice. Contributed significantly to discussions about health care policy, medical ethics, and the commercialization of medicine. Authored numerous articles and books, emphasizing the importance of professional integrity in medicine and advocating for reform in the health care system.
Continue ReadingJohn III Sobieski
King of Poland and military leader
Born
August 17th, 1629 396 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1696 329 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1629, ascended to the throne of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1674. Led the Christian coalition during the Battle of Vienna in 1683, successfully defending Europe against the Ottoman Empire. His leadership during this decisive battle earned him recognition as a key figure in European history. Engaged in numerous military campaigns to secure and expand the territories of the Commonwealth. Oversaw a period of significant military and diplomatic activities aimed at strengthening Poland's position in Europe until his death in 1696.
Continue ReadingÉric Dewailly
Epidemiologist and academic researcher
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 60 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of epidemiology with a focus on environmental health and the effects of contaminants on populations. Served as a professor at Laval University and held various leadership roles in public health research. Conducted studies that examined the link between environmental factors and health outcomes, particularly in Indigenous communities in Canada. Played a significant role in the development of health policies and practices based on scientific evidence.
Continue ReadingJack Parsons
Chemist and Rocket Propulsion Pioneer
Born
October 2nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1952 73 years ago — 37 years old
An American chemist and engineer, this individual contributed significantly to the early development of rocket propulsion technology. Involved with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the California Institute of Technology, he played a crucial role in the advancement of solid-fuel rockets. Additionally, he was associated with the Thelema spiritual philosophy, influenced by Aleister Crowley, and engaged in various occult practices. His work with the Aerojet Engineering Corporation furthered the use of chemical propellants in rocketry. Tragedy struck in 1952 when an explosion occurred at his home laboratory, resulting in his death. Despite a life marked by controversy and challenges, his legacy endures in the field of aerospace engineering.
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