Willie Davenport

American hurdler, Olympic gold medalist

Willie Davenport - American hurdler, Olympic gold medalist
Born

June 8th, 1943
82 years ago

Died

June 17th, 2002
23 years ago — 59 years old

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 67 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 Reading

Francesca Capaldi

American actress from 'Dog with a Blog'
Born
June 8th, 2004 21 years ago

Born in 2004, this actress gained recognition for a lead role in the Disney Channel series 'Dog with a Blog,' which aired from 2012 to 2015. The series focused on a unique family dynamic involving a talking dog that had a blog. Her performance contributed to the show's success, garnering a strong following among audiences. Besides acting, she participated in various interviews and appearances that showcased her talents and personality. Along with her television work, she has also appeared in movies, significantly expanding her career in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Byron White

Football player, lawyer, jurist
Born
June 8th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2002 23 years ago — 84 years old

An American football player turned lawyer and jurist, served as a deputy attorney general in the U.S. government. Played as a running back for the University of Colorado and the Pittsburgh Steelers, achieving notable recognition in both sports and legal fields. Nominated by President John F. Kennedy to the Supreme Court, serving from 1962 to 1993. Contributed to several significant rulings during tenure.

Continue Reading

Douglas Cameron

Canadian politician and Lieutenant Governor
Born
June 8th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1921 103 years ago — 67 years old

A politician served as the 8th Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba. Appointed in 1901, held the position until 1906. Oversaw significant developments in the province during tenure. Involved in numerous civic and governmental initiatives and contributed to the growth of Manitoba.

Continue Reading

Eric F. Wieschaus

Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate in Medicine
Born
June 8th, 1947 78 years ago

One significant contribution to developmental biology involved research on the genetic control of early embryonic development in Drosophila melanogaster. This work led to identifying genes essential for embryogenesis. Collaboration with another scientist in this field culminated in the 1995 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. The findings have greatly influenced understanding of genetic regulation in biological processes.

Continue Reading

Ray Illingworth

Cricketer and sportscaster
Born
June 8th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 89 years old

Played as a talented all-rounder in cricket, representing England and Yorkshire. Achieved notable success as captain of the England national team, leading them to a series victory in the 1970/71 Ashes series in Australia. Transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting, providing insights and commentary on cricket. Contributed significantly to the game through various administrative roles.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 17th

Arthur Harden

Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 12th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1940 85 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of fermentation processes. Developed research on the enzymatic activity of carbohydrates, particularly with respect to yeast and its role in fermentation. Worked closely with glucose and the action of enzymes. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1929 for studies of fermentation and carbohydrate metabolism.

Continue Reading

Jeff Chandler

American actor in film and television
Born
December 15th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1961 64 years ago — 42 years old

Active primarily in the 1940s and 1950s, this individual gained recognition as a prominent actor in Hollywood. Featured in several films that showcased his range, appeared in Westerns and dramatic roles. Significant works include 'Broken Arrow' and 'The Great Sioux Massacre.'

Continue Reading

Patricia Brown

American baseball player, All-American Girl
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old

Played professional baseball as a member of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during the 1940s. Contributed to the growth of women's baseball through participation in the league, which highlighted female athletic talent during and after World War II. After the league's closure, continued to engage with baseball as a coach and supporter of women's sports. The league's legacy was later depicted in the film 'A League of Their Own'.

Continue Reading

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 Reading

Joseph Addison

English essayist and playwright
Born
May 1st, 1672 353 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1719 306 years ago — 47 years old

An English essayist, poet, and playwright whose works shaped the landscape of early 18th-century literature. Played a pivotal role in establishing the periodical essay format, particularly through contributions to The Tatler and The Spectator. Addison's writings often explored themes of virtue, personal conduct, and social harmony. As a politician, he held the office of Secretary of State for Southern Affairs. His literary contributions are regarded as significant in the development of the English essay and political commentary.

Continue Reading

John I Albert

King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania
Born
December 27th, 1459 565 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1501 524 years ago — 41 years old

Born in 1459, this monarch ruled Poland and held the title of Grand Duke of Lithuania. Reigning from 1492 until 1501, significant efforts included the pursuit of unification between Poland and Lithuania. The reign was marked by military conflicts such as the war against the Teutonic Order. This monarch's strategies in diplomacy and military engagements shaped the geopolitical landscape of Eastern Europe. Following the king's death, a succession crisis ensued, impacting the Polish-Lithuanian union significantly.

Continue Reading