July 1 birthdays and deaths:

Marlon Brando

Marlon Brando was a pioneer of method acting, known for his powerful performances in "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "The Godfather." His iconic, brooding presence on screen captivated audiences, earning him two Academy Awards and a legacy as one of the greatest actors of the 20th century.

Deathyear: 2004

Michael Landon

Michael Landon was a renowned American actor, director, and producer. Born in 1936, Landon is best known for his roles in the classic TV shows "Little House on the Prairie" and "Bonanza", as well as his work behind the camera as a director and producer.

Deathyear: 1991

Luther Vandross

Luther Vandross was a legendary American singer-songwriter and producer, famous for his smooth, velvety voice and powerful ballads. Born in 1951, Vandross rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s with hits like "Never Too Much," "Here and Now," and "Dance with My Father."

Deathyear: 2005

Robert Mitchum

Robert Mitchum was a legendary American actor known for his imposing presence and distinctive drawl. Born in 1917, he began his acting career in the 1940s and went on to star in over 100 films, including "Out of the Past," "The Night of the Hunter," and "Cape Fear."

Deathyear: 1997

Nicholas Winton

Nicholas Winton, a British humanitarian, organized the rescue of 669 Czech and Slovak Jewish children from Nazi-occupied Europe in 1938-1939. He became known as the "British Schindler." His heroism was only discovered decades later, and he received numerous awards for his selfless act.

Deathyear: 2015

Walter Matthau

Walter Matthau was a renowned American actor, born on October 1, 1920. He gained fame for his charming on-screen persona in iconic films like "The Front Page," "Charade," and "The Odd Couple," earning him an Oscar and winning hearts worldwide with his unforgettable performances.

Deathyear: 2000

Ernst Röhm

Ernst Röhm was a German paramilitary commander, born in 1887. He played a crucial role in the rise of the Nazi Party and became one of Adolf Hitler's closest associates. Known for his bravery and loyalty, Röhm was a key figure in the German revolution of 1918.

Deathyear: 1934

Margaux Hemingway

Margaux Hemingway, granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway, was an American model and actress born in 1954. She rose to fame in the 1970s with notable roles in films like "Lipstick" and "Seniors and Other Animals".

Deathyear: 1996

Juan Perón

Juan Perón, a charismatic leader, served as President of Argentina from 1946 to 1955 and again from 1973 to 1974. A decorated general, he implemented social and economic reforms, earning him a loyal following. His presidency was marked by populist policies and a military coup.

Deathyear: 1974

Erik Satie

Erik Satie, a pioneering French composer and pianist, was known for his avant-garde and eclectic style. He is famous for his Gymnopédies, Gnossiennes, and Parade, a ballet he composed with Claude Debussy and Pablo Picasso. His music is characterized by simplicity, clarity, and a touch of irony.

Deathyear: 1925

Wolfman Jack

Wolfman Jack was a legendary American radio host and DJ, born on January 21, 1938. Known for his gravelly voice and charismatic style, he hosted several radio shows, including "The Wolfman Jack Show" and "The Wolfman Jack Special."

Deathyear: 1995

Buckminster Fuller

Buckminster Fuller, a renowned American architect, designed the iconic Montreal Biosphère (St. Helena Island) in 1967. Born in 1895, Fuller was a visionary engineer who pioneered innovative, geodesic structures that merged form and function.

Deathyear: 1983

Karl Malden

Karl Malden was a renowned American actor born on March 22, 1912. He won an Academy Award for his role in "A Streetcar Named Desire" (1951) and starred in numerous films and TV shows, including "On the Waterfront" and "The Streets of San Francisco."

Deathyear: 2009

Harriet Beecher Stowe

Harriet Beecher Stowe, a pioneering author and activist, used her writings to expose the brutal realities of slavery. Her novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin" (1852) became a bestseller, influencing public opinion and contributing to the abolitionist movement's momentum towards the eventual emancipation of enslaved people.

Deathyear: 1896

Mahmud II

Mahmud II, the 30th Ottoman Sultan (1804-1839), reigned during a period of decline and reform. He implemented administrative, military, and educational reforms, attempted to centralize power, and abolished the Janissary Corps, which led to the establishment of the modern Ottoman Army.

Deathyear: 1839

Sylvia Sidney

Sylvia Sidney was a talented American actress known for her distinctive voice and striking features. Born Sophie Friedman in 1910, she appeared in over 70 films, including "You Only Live Once" and "Remember the Night," showcasing her dramatic range and earning two Academy Award nominations.

Deathyear: 1999

Dilano van 't Hoff

Dilano van 't Hoff is a Dutch racing driver born in 2004. He has already made a significant impact in the racing world, competing in various championships including the ADAC Formel-4 and the Formula Renault Eurocup. With a promising future ahead of him, Dilano is considered one of the rising stars in motorsports.

Deathyear: 2023

Allan Pinkerton

Allan Pinkerton, a Scottish-American detective and spy, founded the Pinkerton National Detective Agency in 1850. He investigated and prevented several notable crimes, including Abraham Lincoln's assassination attempt in 1861, and became a renowned figure in the world of detective work.

Deathyear: 1884

Mollie Sugden

Mollie Sugden, a talented English actress, was born in 1922. She was best known for her iconic role as Martha Longhurst in the BBC sitcom "Waiting for Walt... and Well Bean", where she delivered her signature sassy one-liners.

Deathyear: 2009

Public Universal Friend

Jacob Hester Jno. or Jenny, known as the Public Universal Friend, was a mysterious American evangelist born in 1752. Despite converting to Christianity, they renounced their original name and assumed a androgynous persona, preaching to large crowds and publishing multiple tracts, leaving behind a lasting spiritual legacy.

Deathyear: 1819

Louis-Ferdinand Céline

Louis-Ferdinand Céline, a French physician and writer, was born in 1894. He gained notoriety for his polemical and anti-Semitic writings, particularly in his novel "Fauxpas". His works often explored themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the decline of civilization.

Deathyear: 1961

Bidhan Chandra Roy

Bidhan Chandra Roy was an Indian physician and politician who served as West Bengal's 2nd Chief Minister. Born in 1882, he was a pioneer in promoting healthcare in the state. As CM, he worked tirelessly to improve healthcare infrastructure and administration, earning him the nickname "Father of Modern Kolkata".

Deathyear: 1962

Ahmed III

Ahmed III ruled the Ottoman Empire from 1703 to 1730. He was known for his liberal reforms, such as the reinstatement of the Janissaries and the establishment of a new cabinet system. He also supported the arts and sciences, patronizing famous architects and artists.

Deathyear: 1736

John Hay

John Hay was an American journalist and politician who served as the 37th United States Secretary of State. He was born on October 8, 1838, and was a key advisor to presidents Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.

Deathyear: 1905

Baybars

Baibars, also known as Al-Muzaffar Baibars, was the Mamluk Sultan of Egypt from 1260 to 1277. A Turkish slave who rose to power through military prowess, he united the Mamluks and defeated the Crusaders, restoring stability to Egypt after the Ayyubid dynasty.

Deathyear: 1277

Chagatai Khan

Chagatai Khan, the second son of Genghis Khan, ruled over Transoxiana and Turkestan from 1227 to 1242. As the leader of the Western Horde, he played a crucial role in expanding the Mongol Empire, establishing diplomatic relationships with neighboring kingdoms, and promoting trade and cultural exchange.

Deathyear: 1242

Alfonso VI of León and Castile

Alfonso VI, king of León and Castile, born in 1040, was a prominent figure in the Reconquista. He conquered the Taifa of Toledo and expanded his kingdom, promoting Christianity and uniting his realms. He died in 1109, leaving behind a lasting legacy.

Deathyear: 1109

Ilene Woods

Ilene Woods was a beloved American actress and singer, born in 1929. She is best known for voicing Cinderella in the 1950 Disney animated film, which led to a long-standing career in show business.

Deathyear: 2010

Forrest Mars Sr.

Forrest Mars Sr. was a pioneering American businessman who co-founded Mars, Inc. with his father Frank Calvin Mars. He's credited with introducing M&M's in 1941 and inventing the Snickers and 3 Musketeers bars, revolutionizing the candy industry.

Deathyear: 1999

Val Doonican

Val Doonican was a renowned Irish singer, television host, and showman. Born in 1927, he brought joy to audiences with his velvety smooth voice and charming wit. He presented his own TV show from 1964 to 1986, entertaining millions with his unique blend of music and comedy.

Deathyear: 2015

Charles Goodyear

Charles Goodyear, an American chemist and engineer, was born in 1800. He discovered the vulcanization process, which converts natural rubber into a durable and versatile material.

Deathyear: 1860

Kurt Student

Kurt Student was a renowned German general and pilot born in 1890. He commanded the VI Air Corps during World War II, played a key role in the Battle of Britain, and pioneered the development of paratrooper units, known as Fallschirmjäger.

Deathyear: 1978

Don Coryell

Don Coryell is a legendary American football coach and player, born in 1924. He played QB at the University of Washington and went on to coach in the NFL, leading the San Diego Chargers to four AFL championships and establishing the West Coast Offense.

Deathyear: 2010

Charles Watson-Wentworth, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham

Charles Watson-Wentworth, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham, was a prominent English politician and Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1765 to 1766 and again from 1768 to 1769.

Deathyear: 1782

Fred Trueman

Fred Trueman, the legendary English cricketer and iconic radio commentator, bowled out batsmen with his fearsome pace and ferocity. After a decorated playing career, he captivated audiences with his inimitable voice and humor on BBC Radio's Test Match Special commentary.

Deathyear: 2006

Oliver Plunkett

Oliver Plunkett (1629-1681) was an Irish Catholic archbishop executed for high treason. A courageous priest and patriot, he played a vital role in maintaining Catholicism in Ireland during the Cromwellian conquest. Beatified in 1929 and canonized in 2011, he is remembered as the patron saint of Ireland.

Deathyear: 1681

John F. Reynolds

John F. Reynolds was a renowned American general during the American Civil War. He played a crucial role in the Battle of Gettysburg, where he was fatally wounded in the first day of fighting, July 1, 1863. His bravery and leadership were respected by both his troops and the enemy.

Deathyear: 1863

Edward Dmytryk

Edward Dmytryk was a renowned Canadian-American film director and producer, born in Grand Forks, British Columbia in 1908. He directed over 60 films, including the classics "Crossfire" (1947) and "The Young Lions" (1958), and was a pioneer of the Hollywood studio system.

Deathyear: 1999

Harriet Quimby

Harriet Quimby was an American pilot and screenwriter who paved the way for female aviators. Born in 1875, she earned her pilot's license in 1911, becoming the 16th person to do so in the US. She also wrote screenplays and was a pioneering figure in the early aviation industry.

Deathyear: 1912

Herbie Mann

Herbie Mann (1930-) is a renowned American flute and saxophonist known for his contributions to jazz and bossa nova. With a distinctive, smooth tone, Mann has recorded over 500 albums, collaborating with prominent artists and inventing a unique musical style blending jazz, Latin, and pop elements.

Deathyear: 2003

Lawrence Bragg

William Lawrence Bragg was a renowned Australian-English physicist and academic who made significant contributions to the field of X-ray crystallography. He was jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1915 for his work on the diffraction of X-rays by crystals.

Deathyear: 1971

Willem Arondeus

Willem Arondeus (1894-1943) was a talented Dutch artist, writer, and resistance fighter. As a non-practicing Catholic, he opposed Nazi occupation and Jewish persecution. He was executed by firing squad at the age of 49 for his role in the Dutch Resistance.

Deathyear: 1943

Eliel Saarinen

Eliel Saarinen, a renowned Finnish-American architect, co-designed the National Museum of Finland with his brother, who designed the country's national library. Born in 1873, Saarinen's work blended Finnish folklore with international modernism, earning him international recognition for his magnificent structures.

Deathyear: 1950

Renaldo Benson

Renaldo "Duke" Benson, an American singer-songwriter, was best known as a member of the legendary Motown group Four Tops. Born in 1936, Benson was responsible for iconic hits like "I Believe in You" and "Keeping Secrets."

Deathyear: 2005

Franco Cristaldi

Franco Cristaldi was a renowned Italian screenwriter and producer, born in 1924. He's best known for producing Federico Fellini's "La Dolce Vita" and "8 1/2". Cristaldi's impressive career spanned over five decades, earning him numerous accolades and a lasting impact on Italian cinema.

Deathyear: 1992

Totila

Totila, the Gothic king, ruled the Ostrogoth kingdom from 541 to 552, uniting the East Goths and West Goths. He fought the Byzantine Empire, taking Italy and threatening the Western Roman Empire. His reign saw the division of lands and strategic wars, cementing his legacy.

Deathyear: 552

Walter Dean Myers

Walter Dean Myers was a celebrated American author and poet, known for his powerful and poignant stories about the African-American experience. Born in 1937, he penned over 100 books, winning numerous awards, including the Coretta Scott King Award and the Hans Christian Andersen Award.

Deathyear: 2014

Wally Hammond

Wally Hammond, a legendary English cricketer, was born in 1903. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the sport.

Deathyear: 1965

Tanya Savicheva

Tanya Savicheva, born in 1930, was a Russian author and poet. Her poignant diary, written during World War II, depicts the tragic loss of her siblings in the Holocaust. Her work, embodying resilience and hope, has become a symbol of the human spirit amidst adversity.

Deathyear: 1944

Ryutaro Hashimoto

Ryutaro Hashimoto served as Japan's 53rd Prime Minister from 1996 to 1998. A prominent Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) member, he prioritized economic recovery and Japan-US relations. His term was marked by controversy over the new Kanzaki Accord, a free trade agreement with the United States.

Deathyear: 2006

Fritz Bauer

Fritz Bauer was a German judge and politician who played a crucial role in exposing Nazi war criminals. As a judge, he prosecuted Adolf Eichmann in 1961, leading to his execution. Bauer's efforts helped to bring closure to the victims of the Holocaust and their families.

Deathyear: 1968