Famous people born on July 10th
July 10 stands out for a striking range of innovators, storytellers, and public figures whose work reshaped law, science, literature, sport, and popular culture. From foundational thinkers and pioneering inventors to award-winning authors and globally recognized performers, this date gathers influence across centuries and continents. Together, these birthdays trace how ideas move from the page and laboratory into everyday life.
Notable highlights
- Nikola Tesla (1856) - Visionary inventor whose AC power and induction-motor breakthroughs underpinned modern electrification.
- Marcel Proust (1871) - Modernist novelist whose multi-volume exploration of memory and time redefined psychological realism.
- Arthur Ashe (1943) - Trailblazing tennis champion who paired elite athletic achievement with principled civil-rights and health advocacy.
- Mary McLeod Bethune (1875) - Educator and institution-builder who expanded Black educational opportunity and advised national leaders.
- Camille Pissarro (1830) - Key Impressionist who mentored peers and bridged movements from Impressionism to Post-Impressionism.
- John Calvin (1509) - Reformation theologian whose writings and civic vision shaped Protestant doctrine and church governance.
- William Blackstone (1723) - Jurist whose "Commentaries" systematized English common law and influenced legal education for generations.
- Alice Munro (1931) - Master of the short story celebrated for precise, humane portraits of ordinary lives with extraordinary depth.
- Sofia Vergara (1972) - Actor and producer whose comedic timing helped make her one of television's most recognizable stars.
- Jessica Simpson (1980) - Pop singer and entrepreneur who successfully parlayed chart fame into a major consumer brand.
On this day
- 1925 - The Scopes "Monkey Trial" begins in Tennessee, focusing national attention on evolution and education.
- 1940 - The Battle of Britain begins as Germany launches major air attacks on the United Kingdom.
- 1973 - The Bahamas gains independence from the United Kingdom.
- 1985 - French intelligence agents sink the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior in Auckland Harbor.