Willie Mays
Baseball Hall of Famer, San Francisco Giants
A legendary baseball player and coach, played primarily for the San Francisco Giants. Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1951 and had a career spanning over two decades. Achieved a batting average of .302 and collected 660 home runs during his career. Won two National League MVP awards in 1954 and 1965. Contributed to the Giants' victory in the 1954 World Series and received numerous accolades for his impressive defensive skills, including 12 Gold Glove awards.
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979
Won two National League MVP awards
Part of the 1954 World Series champion team
Other People Born on May 6th
Marcellus II
Pope during the Counter-Reformation
Born
May 6th, 1501 524 years ago
Died
1555 471 years ago — 54 years old
Became pope in 1555, leading the Catholic Church during a period of significant religious tension known as the Counter-Reformation. Implemented various reforms in Church practices, emphasizing the importance of clerical discipline and the education of priests. His papacy was notably short, lasting only 22 days before his death, which limited the ability to fully execute his vision for the Church. Despite the brevity of his tenure, contributions to the Catholic Reformation emerged during his administration.
Continue ReadingAngel Reese
Basketball player; NCAA Champion.
Born
May 6th, 2002 23 years ago
Born in 2002, a basketball player who played for Louisiana State University. Led the team to win the NCAA Women's Basketball Championship in 2023. Made headlines during the tournament for exceptional performances and was recognized as the Most Outstanding Player. Showcased notable skills in scoring and rebounding throughout the season, earning multiple awards and accolades for individual achievements.
Continue ReadingSophia Jagiellon
Margravine of Brandenburg-Ansbach
Born
May 6th, 1464 561 years ago
Died
1512 514 years ago — 48 years old
Born into the Polish royal family, served as Margravine of Brandenburg-Ansbach through marriage. Played a significant role in the political alliances between the Polish and German nobility. Her marriage to George the Constable strengthened relations between the two regions, influencing regional politics during her lifetime.
Continue ReadingInnocent X
Pope and leader of the Catholic Church
Born
May 6th, 1574 451 years ago
Died
1655 371 years ago — 81 years old
Served as pope from 1644 to 1655, overseeing critical years for the Catholic Church during the Thirty Years' War. Advocated for the Counter-Reformation and addressed issues of corruption within the Church. His papacy coincided with significant art patronage, influencing Baroque artists, particularly in Rome. Commissioned notable works including projects by Bernini and Caravaggio, enhancing the cultural landscape of the Vatican.
Continue ReadingCole Palmer
Footballer; played for Manchester City
Born
May 6th, 2002 23 years ago
This individual is a professional footballer who plays as a winger. Began the youth career at Manchester City, progressing through the ranks to make first-team appearances. Played a significant role in Manchester City's triumphs in domestic competitions. Contributed to the team's successes in the Premier League and domestic cups while showcasing skill and versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingPato O'Ward
Mexican racing driver with IndyCar success
Born
May 6th, 1999 26 years ago
Participated in various racing competitions, achieving notable success in the IndyCar Series. Claimed the IndyCar Rookie of the Year award in 2019. Completed multiple seasons with Arrow McLaren Racing, securing several podium finishes and race victories. Demonstrated talent in both open-wheel and sports car racing disciplines.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 18th
Big Van Vader
Professional wrestler and football player
Born
May 14th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2018 7 years ago — 63 years old
Held a prominent career in professional wrestling, gaining recognition for participation in major promotions such as WCW and WWF. Competed in high-profile matches against notable opponents, showcasing a combination of technical skill and athleticism. Prior to wrestling, engaged in college football, playing as a standout player and earning accolades in the sport. Achieved championship titles in various wrestling organizations throughout a career that spanned several decades.
Continue ReadingAllen Weinstein
American historian and academic
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
Held a prominent role in American history scholarship and education. Authored multiple influential works focusing on the analysis of key historical events and figures. Served as a professor at various institutions, significantly contributing to the academic field. Co-founded the National Archives and Records Administration, where efforts were made to improve public access to historical documents and records.
Continue ReadingPedro Armendáriz
Mexican-American actor in classic films
Born
May 9th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1963 62 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent actor with a career spanning several decades, primarily in the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. Gained recognition for performances in films such as 'The Mask of Zorro' and 'The Forgotten Village'. Worked with celebrated directors and actors, becoming a key part of the film industry during the mid-20th century. Faced challenges of typecasting but remained a leading figure in both Mexican and American cinema. His career was marked by memorable roles that showcased both talent and charisma.
Continue ReadingEthel Barrymore
American actress and theater performer
Born
August 15th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1959 66 years ago — 79 years old
A celebrated stage and film actress, contributions spanned several decades from the late 19th to mid-20th centuries. Gained acclaim for performances in prominent plays and movies, particularly in productions such as 'The Corn is Green' and 'The Royal Family'. Renowned for a commanding presence and emotional depth in roles, established a legacy within American theater, setting standards for future generations of actors. Received several awards for performances, including a special Academy Award.
Continue ReadingRoald Amundsen
Polar explorer and first to South Pole
Born
July 16th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1928 97 years ago — 55 years old
Accomplished polar explorer played a pivotal role in the Age of Exploration. Led the first successful expedition to reach the South Pole in December 1911, preceding Robert Falcon Scott's arrival by over a month. Also known for navigating the Northwest Passage through the Arctic, achieving this feat from 1903 to 1906. Focused on meticulous planning and preparation, utilizing innovative techniques and equipment for the harsh polar environment. His expeditions advanced knowledge of polar regions and contributed to the field of exploration.
Continue ReadingClarence Clemons
Saxophonist and actor in rock music
Born
January 11th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2011 14 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent saxophonist and actor, contributed significantly to rock music through performances and recordings. Became widely recognized as a member of the E Street Band, participating in notable albums and world tours. Also acted in various television shows and films, showcasing versatility beyond music. Clemons collaborated with numerous artists, enhancing their sound with creative saxophone solos.
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