Yelena Bonner
Soviet-Russian human rights activist
Engaged in human rights activism throughout the Soviet Union, leadership included co-founding the Moscow Helsinki Group in 1976 to monitor compliance with the Helsinki Accords. Detained and monitored by Soviet authorities for her opposition to government repression, worked closely with dissidents including her husband, Andrei Sakharov. Emigrated to the United States in 1986, continued advocacy for human rights and democracy in Russia. Authored several books addressing the struggles for civil rights.
Co-founded the Moscow Helsinki Group
Advocated for human rights during the Soviet era
Other People Born on February 15th
Endicott Peabody
American politician, 62nd Governor of Massachusetts
Born
February 15th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1997 28 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the 62nd Governor of Massachusetts from 1963 to 1965. Practiced law after graduating from Harvard Law School and joined the U.S. Army during World War II. Held various public service roles including State Senator and Secretary of the Commonwealth. Participated in promoting education and civil rights during tenure in office.
Continue ReadingGraham Kennedy
Television host and actor, King of TV
Born
February 15th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 71 years old
A significant figure in Australian television, this individual began a career in the 1950s and hosted several influential shows. Revolutionized the television landscape with innovative formats and engaging presentation styles. Achieved popularity through programs such as 'In Melbourne Tonight' and 'The Graham Kennedy Show'. Won multiple awards, including the Gold Logie, celebrating excellence in Australian television. Continued to influence the industry until retirement.
Continue ReadingGale Sondergaard
Danish-American actress, Oscar winner
Born
February 15th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1985 40 years ago — 86 years old
An actress noted for her work in film and theater, this individual gained prominence in the early 20th century. She earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'Anthony Adverse' (1936). Throughout her career, she portrayed a range of characters across different genres, often cast in roles that highlighted her distinctive style. She was one of the first actresses to receive an Academy Award, paving the way for future generations in the industry. Additionally, she featured in several notable productions on Broadway, showcasing her talents beyond the silver screen.
Continue ReadingJean Langlais
French organist and composer of liturgical music
Born
February 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1991 34 years ago — 84 years old
Career spanned from the mid-20th century, focusing on organ music and sacred compositions. Studied at the Paris Conservatory, where expertise in organ performance and composition developed. Served as organist at various churches, including the Church of Saint-Denis in Paris. Contributed significantly to liturgical music with works that incorporated contemporary styles while maintaining traditional roots. Worked with a variety of instruments, showcasing a unique blend of modern and classical elements in compositions.
Continue ReadingIrena Sendler
Polish nurse and humanitarian
Born
February 15th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 98 years old
Worked as a nurse and social worker during World War II, providing assistance to Jewish families in German-occupied Poland. Facilitated the escape of approximately 2,500 Jewish children from the Warsaw Ghetto, placing them with Polish families and in convents to protect them from the Holocaust. After the war, continued to advocate for social justice and human rights. Received numerous awards and honors posthumously for contributions to saving lives during the Holocaust.
Continue ReadingHarold Arlen
American composer of popular music
Born
February 15th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1986 39 years ago — 81 years old
This American composer contributed significantly to the Great American Songbook, creating numerous timeless pieces. Collaborated with lyricist E.Y. Harburg to compose songs for the acclaimed musical 'The Wizard of Oz'. The song 'Over the Rainbow' gained critical acclaim and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1940. Additionally, composed popular standards such as 'Stormy Weather' and 'Let's Fall in Love', which were performed by various artists.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 18th
Anouk Aimée
French actress known for La Dolce Vita
Born
April 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1932, this French actress achieved international recognition for her work in film. A prominent figure in the European cinema during the 1960s, she gained acclaim for roles in films such as 'La Dolce Vita' and 'A Man and a Woman', both significant in shaping her career. Throughout her career, she showcased a range of characters, contributing to her reputation as a talented actress. Her contributions to the film industry have left a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingPaul Karrer
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 21st, 1889 136 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1971 54 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1889, a chemist made significant contributions to the field of organic chemistry. Focused on studying vitamins, particularly vitamin A and B2. Received a Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1937 for research on carotenoids and vitamins. Held academic positions in various institutions, influencing both research and education in chemistry.
Continue ReadingJames Chance
American musician and saxophonist
Born
April 20th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 71 years old
A significant figure in the No Wave movement, this artist blended punk and jazz to create a unique sound. The work incorporated elements of avant-garde music and performance art. The artist's mixtape approach and energetic performances gained a cult following. Influential in the development of the downtown New York City music scene, the artist collaborated with various musicians and bands throughout the career. Key works include the album 'Fired Up' and collaborations with the band James White and the Blacks, which played a crucial role in shaping the genre.
Continue ReadingEmperor Chūkyō of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Kamakura period
Born
October 30th, 1218 807 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1234 791 years ago — 15 years old
A Japanese emperor who reigned briefly in the early 13th century during the Kamakura period. Ascended to the throne in 1231 and reigned until 1232. Deposed by the powerful Kamakura shogunate, which sought to control imperial authority and governance. After his abdication, spent the remainder of life in seclusion in a temple. His short reign marked a time of political transition and the consolidation of military power in Japan.
Continue ReadingJohann Ulrich von Cramer
German philosopher and judge
Born
November 8th, 1706 319 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1772 253 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in 18th century German philosophy and jurisprudence, expertise lay in the field of law. Held a position as a judge, contributing to the development of legal thought during this period. Authored notable works that addressed significant philosophical issues and legal principles, influencing both contemporary and future discussions on philosophy and law.
Continue ReadingAlfonso III of Aragon
Aragonese king during the Reconquista
Born
1265 760 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1291 734 years ago — 26 years old
Ruled as the king of Aragon and overlord of the Kingdom of Valencia from 1285 until death in 1291. Expanded territories through military campaigns, solidifying Aragon's dominance in the region during the Reconquista. Established the city of Valencia as an important cultural and economic center. His leadership contributed to significant territorial gains in Southeast Spain.
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