A. Thangathurai
Sri Lankan lawyer and politician
A lawyer and politician, served as a member of the Parliament of Sri Lanka. Engaged in advocating for the rights of the Tamil minority community. Played a significant role in political activities aimed at addressing issues facing Tamils in the country. Participated in various political parties and movements, contributing to discussions on the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka.
Served as a Member of Parliament from 1977 to 1989
Advocated for Tamil rights and representation
Other People Born on January 17th
Rik De Saedeleer
Belgian footballer and sports journalist
Born
January 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent footballer and sports journalist, this individual played primarily as a midfielder. His career in football included notable performances with clubs in Belgium. Transitioning to journalism, he became a respected commentator and analyst of the sport. Contributions to media coverage of football helped shape public understanding and appreciation of the game in Belgium. The dual career in football and journalism highlighted expertise in both sports and communication.
Continue ReadingJoshua Malina
Actor in The West Wing and Scandal
Born
January 17th, 1966 59 years ago
An American actor prominently featured in television series and films. Played a key role as Will Bailey in the political drama 'The West Wing.' Also portrayed David Rosen in the series 'Scandal.' Besides acting, engaged in writing and producing various projects, contributing to the entertainment industry through multiple platforms.
Continue ReadingJaved Akhtar
Indian poet and lyricist for films
Born
January 17th, 1945 80 years ago
A prominent figure in Indian literature and cinema, he has contributed significantly as a poet, lyricist, and playwright. With a career spanning several decades, he co-wrote popular Bollywood films such as 'Sholay' and 'Deewaar'. His lyrics have graced numerous films, earning accolades for their depth and emotion. Akhtar has also published several poetry collections and has been involved in various social and cultural initiatives. With a commitment to promoting Urdu literature and music, he has received multiple awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award and the Padma Bhushan.
Continue ReadingKang Chan-hee
South Korean singer and actor
Born
January 17th, 2000 25 years ago
Started career in entertainment industry as a member of the boy band SF9, which debuted in 2016. Branching into acting, appeared in the television series 'Sky Castle' and 'Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol.' Gained recognition for performances in various productions, showcasing talent in both music and acting.
Continue ReadingMichael Zigomanis
Ice hockey player with NHL experience
Born
January 17th, 1981 44 years ago
Played ice hockey as a center, participating in the NHL and AHL. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third round of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. Played for teams such as the Carolina Hurricanes and the Phoenix Coyotes. Spent significant time in the AHL, contributing to multiple team successes.
Continue ReadingMarcel Petiot
French physician and serial killer
Born
January 17th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 49 years old
A physician practiced medicine in France during the early 20th century. Associated with numerous suspicious deaths, allegations of his involvement circulated widely in Paris during World War II. Posing as a resistance fighter, facilitated the escape of several individuals under the pretext of aiding them. However, investigations revealed the grim truth of his actions when the remains of multiple victims were discovered in his home. In 1946, faced trial for his crimes, receiving a death sentence and executed the following year.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 5th
Sid Luckman
American football quarterback
Born
November 21st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1998 27 years ago — 81 years old
Played quarterback for the Chicago Bears from 1939 to 1950. Led the Bears to four NFL championships during the 1940s. After serving in the military during World War II, returned to the NFL and became a key figure in popularizing the modern passing game. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1965.
Continue ReadingVic Seixas
American tennis player, 1950 & 1954 champion
Born
August 30th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 100 years old
An American tennis player achieved significant success during the mid-20th century. Competed in both singles and doubles events, achieving notable ranking positions. Claimed the U.S. National Championships in singles in 1954 and secured multiple doubles titles. Represented the United States in international competitions, showcasing skills on various surfaces. Contributed to the growth of tennis through participation in numerous tournaments.
Continue ReadingRichard Donner
Film director and producer of Superman
Born
April 24th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2021 4 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent film director and producer, contributed significantly to the superhero genre with the release of 'Superman' in 1978. Directed the iconic 'The Goonies' in 1985, a beloved adventure film. Also directed several 'Lethal Weapon' series films, establishing a popular action-comedy franchise. Collaborated with various actors, enhancing their careers and bringing significant films to life. Active in the film industry from the mid-20th century until the early 21st century.
Continue ReadingBengt I. Samuelsson
Swedish biochemist, Nobel Laureate
Born
May 21st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1934, contributions to biochemistry included significant discoveries related to eicosanoids, which are vital hormone-like substances in the body. Research focused on lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase, enzymes involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid. These findings led to advancements in understanding inflammation and allergies. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1982 alongside two others for work on the chemical mediators of the immune system, leading to breakthroughs in pharmacology and therapeutics. Held academic positions and played a crucial role in promoting biochemistry in Sweden.
Continue ReadingDavid Cargo
American politician, Governor of New Mexico
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 22nd Governor of New Mexico from 1967 to 1971. Prior to governorship, held positions including New Mexico Secretary of State. Played a role in developing state policies and initiatives. After leaving office, continued to be involved in public service and local politics.
Continue ReadingHoward Nemerov
American Poet and Academic
Born
March 1st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 71 years old
An American poet and academic contributed significantly to 20th-century poetry. Served as a professor at Washington University in St. Louis and was a key figure in the academic study of poetry. Published several collections of poetry, essays, and criticism, and held prestigious positions including U.S. Poet Laureate. Recognition included the Bollingen Prize and the National Book Award.
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