July 2 birthdays and deaths:
Famous people who died on July 2:
Ernest Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway, a literary giant, won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954. He is celebrated for his concise, precise prose, exploring themes of masculinity, mortality, and human struggle. His works, such as "The Old Man and the Sea" and "A Farewell to Arms," remain timeless classics.
Deathyear: 1961
James Stewart
James Stewart, a beloved American actor, born on May 20, 1908, is best known for his rugged yet gentle persona in films like "It's a Wonderful Life", "Rear Window", and "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington", earning him an Academy Award and a permanent place in Hollywood history.
Deathyear: 1997
Nostradamus
Michel de Nostradamus, a French apothecary and prophet, is renowned for his cryptic prophecies in "Les Centuries". Born in 1503, he claimed to predict future events, including the French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon.
Deathyear: 1566
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a French philosopher and composer, born in Geneva in 1712, is known for his influential writings on social contract theory, the general will, and the concept of the noble savage.
Deathyear: 1778
Fred Gwynne
Frederick Gwynne, professionally known as Fred Gwynne, was a talented American actor born on July 10, 1926. He's best recognized for his iconic roles in "The Munsters" and "Car 54, Where Are You?", showcasing his comedic talents and unique appearance.
Deathyear: 1993
Vladimir Nabokov
Vladimir Nabokov, a Russian-born author and critic, was known for his lyrical prose and complex narrative structures. He wrote numerous novels, including "Lolita" and "Pale Fire", showcasing his mastery of language and exploration of human psychology.
Deathyear: 1977
Caroline Aherne
Caroline Aherne was a talented English actress and comedian born in 1963. She is best known for creating and starring in the popular TV shows "Mrs. Merton" and "The Fast Show", showcasing her impressive comedic skills and irreverent wit.
Deathyear: 2016
Andrés Escobar
Andrés Escobar was a Colombian professional footballer who played as a defender for clubs in Colombia and the United States. He played for the Colombian national team and was a member of the 1990 FIFA World Cup squad, where he infamously scored an own goal against the Soviet Union.
Deathyear: 1994
Louis Zamperini
Louis Zamperini was a renowned American distance runner, NCAA champion, and US Army Air Forces captain during World War II. After surviving a plane crash and 47 days adrift at sea, Zamperini was imprisoned in Japanese POW camps and later wrote about his extraordinary experiences in "Unbroken" and "The Boys in the Boat".
Deathyear: 2014
Mario Puzo
Mario Puzo was a renowned American author and screenwriter, best known for writing "The Godfather" novels and film. Born in 1920, Puzo's writing often explored themes of family, loyalty, and power, cementing his status as a literary giant.
Deathyear: 1999
Elie Wiesel
Elie Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor, Nobel laureate, and acclaimed author, was born in 1928. He wrote extensively about his experiences at Auschwitz and Buchenwald, advocating for human rights and combatting anti-Semitism. Wiesel's writings have had a profound impact on the world, promoting empathy and understanding.
Deathyear: 2016
Lee Iacocca
Lee Iacocca was a renowned American automotive executive, credited with saving Chrysler from bankruptcy in the 1980s. He served as CEO of Ford Motor Company and Chrysler Corporation, revolutionizing the industry with innovative designs and turnaround strategies.
Deathyear: 2019
Lee Remick
Lee Remick (b. 1935) was an esteemed American actress, renowned for her captivating performances on film and stage. Among her notable roles are "Days of Wine and Roses" and "The Omen." She received six Academy Award nominations and was honored with a Golden Globe Award.
Deathyear: 1991
Betty Grable
Here is a 40-word biography about Betty Grable: Betty Grable was a legendary American actress, singer, and dancer, born Barbara Blanche Parker on December 18, 1916. She rose to fame in the 1940s and became the most popular pin-up girl of World War II, starring in films such as "Pin-Up Girl" and "How to Marry a Millionaire."
Deathyear: 1973
Reckful
Byron Bernstein, known as FaZe Rug, is a popular American Twitch streamer and internet personality born in 1989. He initially gained fame on YouTube, playing Call of Duty, and expanded to Twitch, entertaining millions with his gaming prowess and humor.
Deathyear: 2020
Michael Cimino
Michael Cimino is a renowned American filmmaker, known for his dramatic and often intense films. Born in 1939, he has directed iconic movies such as "The Deer Hunter" and "Heaven's Gate," earning him critical acclaim and numerous awards.
Deathyear: 2016
Porfirio Díaz
Porfirio Díaz, a shrewd and cunning leader, served as Mexico's 29th President from 1876 to 1876 and again from 1880 to 1911. He transformed Mexico into a modern nation through infrastructure development, economic growth, and stability, earning him the nickname "The Strongman."
Deathyear: 1915
Robert Peel
Robert Peel, 2nd Earl of Stanhope, was a British politician who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1841 to 1846 and again from 1852 to 1855. He was known for his reformist policies and leadership.
Deathyear: 1850
Manuel II of Portugal
Manuel II of Portugal (1889-1932) was the King of Portugal from 1908 to 1910. He was just 11 years old when he ascended to the throne after the assassination of his parents, King Carlos I and Queen Amélie. Despite his youth, he was a popular monarch and active supporter of Portuguese culture.
Deathyear: 1932
Akechi Mitsuhide
Akechi Mitsuhide was a Japanese samurai and warlord who served the Azai clan. He played a crucial role in the Battle of Muroto and led a rebellion against his former lord, Oda Nobunaga.
Deathyear: 1582
Joey Dunlop
Joey Dunlop was a Northern Irish professional motorcycle road racer, born in 1952. Nicknamed "King of the roads," he won numerous championship titles, including 24 TT Formula 1 races, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest road racers of all time.
Deathyear: 2000
Ferdinand Schörner
Ferdinand Schörner was a German field marshal born in 1892. He served in World War I and II, earning numerous decorations for bravery. Schörner played a significant role in the German military, holding various commands and eventually serving as the Chief of Staff of the German Army.
Deathyear: 1973
Joseph Chamberlain
Joseph Chamberlain was a pioneering English businessman and politician who served as Secretary of State for the Colonies from 1895 to 1903. Born in 1836, he was a key figure in British imperialism and advocated for the British Empire's expansion and reform.
Deathyear: 1914
Andrei Gromyko
Andrei Gromyko, a prominent Soviet economist and politician, served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1957 to 1985, playing a pivotal role in shaping Soviet foreign policy during the Cold War era.
Deathyear: 1989
James Robertson Justice
James Robertson Justice was a renowned English actor, born on December 21, 1907. He is best known for his roles in classic British films, including "Doctor in the House" (1954) and "The Man Who Stopped to Help" (1950), showcasing his versatility and wit.
Deathyear: 1975
Henry the Fowler
Henry the Fowler was a German king from 919 to 936. Born in 876, he was a Saxon duke who unified the various German tribes and was crowned king. He conquered the Magyars, expanded the kingdom, and established the Ottonian dynasty, which ruled Europe for centuries.
Deathyear: 936
Douglas Engelbart
Douglas Engelbart, born in 1925, was an American computer scientist who pioneered computer graphics and human-computer interaction. He invented the computer mouse, revolutionizing human-computer interfaces, and developed other influential technologies that enabled more intuitive and interactive computing.
Deathyear: 2013
Samuel Hahnemann
Samuel Hahnemann was a German physician and academic born in 1755. He is widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in homeopathy, which he developed through his studies of medicine, chemistry, and philosophy. His most famous work is the book "Organon of Rational Healing" published in 1810.
Deathyear: 1843
Stephen the Great
Stephen III of Moldavia (1434-1504) was the voivode of Moldavia from 1462 to 1504. He strengthened Moldavia's military, encouraged trade and culture, and ensured relations with neighboring states. His reign marked a period of stability and prosperity for the principality.
Deathyear: 1504
Elizabeth Spriggs
Elizabeth Spriggs was a renowned English actress and screenwriter, born in 1929. She appeared in numerous stage, film, and television productions, earning a BAFTA TV Award nomination for her role in the BBC's "The House" (1992).
Deathyear: 2008
Natasha Shneider
Natasha Shneider was a Russian-American singer, keyboard player, and actress, born in 1956. She co-founded the band Foetus and gained recognition as a singer and songwriter. Her powerful vocals and energetic performances made her a beloved figure in the music industry.
Deathyear: 2008
Ray Brown (musician)
Ray Brown, the legendary American bassist and composer, was born in 1926. With his smooth, silky tone and impressive technical skill, he played with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Oscar Peterson, cementing his status as one of the most iconic bassists in jazz.
Deathyear: 2002
Smith Hart
Smith Hart, a renowned American-born Canadian wrestler, was born in 1948. He is a third-generation wrestling personality and half-brother of the famed Hart wrestling family. Throughout his illustrious career, he competed in various wrestling organizations and tournaments, earning a respected reputation within the wrestling community.
Deathyear: 2017
Beverly Sills
Beverly Sills was a renowned American operatic soprano known for her bright, agile voice and charismatic stage presence. She made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in 1955 and went on to perform leading roles around the world.
Deathyear: 2007
Swithun
Swithun was an English bishop and saint who lived in the 9th century. Born in 789, Swithun was a devout Christian and served as the Bishop of Winchester. He is known for his piety and generosity, and is revered as a saint in the Catholic Church.
Deathyear: 862
Robert the Strong
Robert the Strong, a Frankish nobleman, was the Count of Paris and a powerful figure in the Carolingian court. He was the father of Odo, who became King of France, and played a key role in the Frankish politics during the 9th century.
Deathyear: 866
Alan Longmuir
Alan Longmuir was a Scottish musician born in 1948. He was the original bassist of the Bay City Rollers, a popular 1970s rock band. His iconic bass lines and distinctive vocal style helped shape the band's signature sound.
Deathyear: 2018
Émile Coué
Émile Coué was a French psychologist and pharmacist born in 1857. He developed the "Coué method", a self-hypnosis technique that emphasized positive thinking and affirmations to improve mental and physical well-being. His work laid the groundwork for modern self-help and personal development movements.
Deathyear: 1926
Spencer Compton, 1st Earl of Wilmington
Spencer Compton, 1st Earl of Wilmington, was an English politician who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1742 to 1743. Born in 1673, he was the first Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports and a prominent Whig politician, known for his diplomatic and financial skills.
Deathyear: 1743
Ed Delahanty
Ed Delahanty was a legendary American baseball player who played from 1888 to 1903. He played for the Pittsburgh Alleghenys, Washington Senators, and Cleveland Spiders, earning a reputation as a power hitter and a charismatic leader on and off the field.
Deathyear: 1903
Fireball Roberts
Fireball Roberts was a legendary American racing driver, born in 1929. With 33 wins and numerous championships, he remains one of the most successful drivers in NASCAR's history. His fearless driving style earned him the nickname "Fireball" and a loyal fan base.
Deathyear: 1964
Ernest Lehman
Ernest Lehman was a renowned filmmaker, director, producer, and screenwriter, known for his versatility and expertise in multiple aspects of filmmaking. Born in 1915, Lehman's notable works include "The Sweet Smell of Success" (1957) and "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" (1966), showcasing his talent and mastery.
Deathyear: 2005
Joseph Fielding Smith
Joseph Fielding Smith was the 10th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving from 1970-1972. He was a son of Joseph F. Smith, the 6th President of the church, and was known for his strong faith and dedication to the spiritual welfare of the LDS community.
Deathyear: 1972
Jan Murray
Jan Murray was a legendary American comedian, actor, and game show host, born in 1916. He's best known for hosting the popular game shows "Beat the Clock" and "Hollywood Squares". His witty humor and charming personality endeared him to audiences, making him a beloved figure in American entertainment.
Deathyear: 2006
Itamar Franco
Itamar Franco, a Brazilian engineer and politician, served as the 33rd President of Brazil from 1992 to 1995. Born in 1930, Franco was a leader in the Workers' Party and played a significant role in Brazil's transition to democracy.
Deathyear: 2011
Beryl Bainbridge
Beryl Bainbridge was a celebrated English screenwriter and author, known for her biting wit and poignant stories. Born in 1932, she wrote novels, plays, and screenplays, including the critically acclaimed "The Dressmaker" and "An Awfully Big Adventure". Her writing often explored themes of trauma, love, and mortality.
Deathyear: 2010
Thomas Harriot
Thomas Harriot (1560-1621) was an English polymath who made significant contributions to astronomy, mathematics, and ethnography. He was the first to observe sunspots, calculated the orbit of Halley's Comet, and wrote extensively on inquiring about the New World.
Deathyear: 1621