Yelena Bonner
Soviet-Russian human rights activist
Born
February 15th, 1923
102 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2011
14 years ago — 88 years old
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
Russia
Links & References
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
Charles Édouard Guillaume
Born in Switzerland, a physicist developed significant research in the field of precision measurements. Worked extensively on the properties of metal and applied scientific principles to create precise standards. Achieved the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1920 for the invention of the steel standard for measuring lengths. Contributed to various advancements in physics and education throughout a distinguished academic career.
Continue ReadingHarold Arlen
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 ReadingSarah Wynter
Born in 1973 in Newcastle, Australia, an actress gained recognition for significant roles in television series. Achieved prominence through the role of Kate Warner in the critically acclaimed series '24' during its second and third seasons. Gained further attention for a character in the series 'The Blacklist'. Pursued a career in acting after relocating to the United States, where various television and film roles followed. In addition to work in television, appeared in movies such as 'Dark City' and 'The Inhabitants'. Notable for versatility in character portrayals across genres.
Continue ReadingMiranda July
An acclaimed filmmaker, writer, and artist is recognized for her unique multimedia work. Significant contributions include directing and writing the films "Me and You and Everyone We Know" and "The Future." Additionally, authored the collection of short stories titled "No One Belongs Here More Than You," which received critical acclaim. The artist's work often explores themes of connection, isolation, and the intertwining of everyday life with the surreal. Numerous exhibitions of visual art featured installations that blend storytelling with various media.
Continue ReadingGalileo Galilei
Galileo Galilei contributed significantly to the fields of physics, mathematics, and astronomy during the early 17th century. He developed the telescope and made groundbreaking astronomical observations, including the moons of Jupiter and the phases of Venus. His support of heliocentrism, the model that places the Sun at the center of the universe, came into conflict with the prevailing geocentric views of his time, leading to his trial by the Roman Catholic Inquisition. He spent the latter part of his life under house arrest due to his writings and beliefs.
Continue ReadingBruce Dawe
An influential Australian poet and academic active in the 20th century. Composed a range of poetry that reflects the Australian experience and explores themes of war, life, and society. Published significant collections including 'No Fixed Address' and 'The Simple Things'. Worked as a teacher and participated in various academic and community engagements. His literary contributions have been recognized and included in anthologies.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 18th
John Cheever
This individual was a prominent American novelist and short story writer. A key figure in 20th-century American literature, notable for capturing the complexities of suburban life. Wrote several acclaimed short story collections and novels during a prolific career. Works often explored themes of desire, aspiration, and the human condition, contributing significantly to American literature. Achievements include winning the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.
Continue ReadingPeter Allen
Originated from Australia, a singer-songwriter, pianist, and actor gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s. Started career as a performer in the club scene and later achieved fame on Broadway. Wrote and performed hit songs such as 'I Still Call Australia Home' and 'Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do),' the latter winning an Academy Award. Collaborated with several notable artists and made significant contributions to music and theater.
Continue ReadingAnouk Aimée
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 ReadingChristoph Scheiner
A German astronomer and Jesuit, contributed extensively to the study of sunspots and telescopic observations. Developed the 'camera obscura' and improved astronomical instruments. Published the work 'Rosa Ursina sive Sol,' detailing sunspot observations and theories on planetary motion. Engaged in a notable correspondence with Galileo over the nature of sunspots, which highlighted differing scientific perspectives of the time.
Continue ReadingSamuel Butler
An English author and critic, contributions spanned multiple genres including fiction and essays. Published notable works such as 'Erewhon' in 1872, which satirized Victorian society and explored themes of evolution and morality. Explored concepts of art and literature through critical essays, influencing thought within these fields. Engaged in debates surrounding Darwinism, applying these ideas within philosophical contexts through writings.
Continue ReadingOlga Constantinovna of Russia
Born into the Russian imperial family, served as queen consort of Greece after marrying King George I in 1867. Held a significant role in the Greek royal family, contributing to various charitable endeavors and engaging in cultural activities. Oversaw the design of the royal palace and participated in numerous state functions. Resided in Greece during challenging historical periods, including the Balkan Wars and World War I.
Continue Reading