Abe Burrows
Playwright and director: 'Guys and Dolls'

Born
December 18th, 1910
114 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1985
39 years ago — 74 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
An author and playwright who contributed significantly to American theater. Early works included 'Coney Island' and 'The Guy Who Came Back'. Achieved acclaim with the musical 'Guys and Dolls', which won the Tony Award for Best Musical. Also wrote the book for the musical 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying', which garnered the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Established a reputation for witty dialogue and engaging narratives.
Wrote the book for 'Guys and Dolls'
Co-created 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying'
Other People Born on December 18th
Paul Siple
A geographer and explorer, contributions focused on polar research. Participated in multiple expeditions to Antarctica, including the first American expedition in 1933-1934. Worked on the development of the wind chill index, significant for understanding cold weather hazards. Helped establish the United States Antarctic Program and served as a leader in this initiative, promoting scientific research in polar regions.
Continue ReadingGiannis Ploutarhos
Born in 1970 in Greece, this artist gained prominence in the contemporary Greek music scene as a singer-songwriter. The career began in the late 1990s, leading to numerous albums and popular singles that resonate with the public. The artist's style often combines traditional Greek music with pop influences. Over the years, concerts and performances have attracted large audiences, further establishing a strong fan base. This musician's contributions include multiple gold and platinum records, highlighting commercial success.
Continue ReadingNeil Fingleton
An English actor and basketball player, gained recognition for being among the tallest men in the world. Played college basketball at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Transitioned to acting, appearing in prominent roles including the character Mag the Mighty in the HBO series Game of Thrones. In addition to athletics and acting, was also featured in the film X-Men: First Class.
Continue ReadingPeter Boulware
Played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the Baltimore Ravens from 1997 to 2005. Was a key contributor to the Ravens' victory in Super Bowl XXXV. After retiring from professional football, engaged in politics, becoming involved in various community and political initiatives.
Continue ReadingJonathan Cainer
An English astrologer and author specialized in astrology, Cainer gained prominence through a wide readership of daily horoscopes in newspapers. His work included various publications that explored different aspects of astrological beliefs and practices. Cainer authored several books on astrology, which contributed to his reputation in the field. A career highlight included the creation of a popular astrology column that was published in multiple national newspapers, reaching a diverse audience over the years.
Continue ReadingRon White
This individual gained prominence as a stand-up comedian, particularly recognized as a member of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour alongside Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall, and Larry the Cable Guy. His comedy style often incorporates storytelling and personal experiences. The comedian's cigar-smoking persona, along with his Southern drawl, contributed to a distinctive comedic brand. Tours and specials, including 'You Can't Fix Stupid' and 'Ron White: Behavioral Problems', showcased his humor and ability to connect with audiences. He has also appeared in feature films and television shows, further enhancing his visibility in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Ziya Pasha
An influential Greek author and translator, contributed significantly to modern Greek literature during the 19th century. Engaged in the translation of notable works from various languages into Greek, enhancing the accessibility of foreign literature. Served as an important figure in the Greek literary scene, shaping literary movements and ideas through original works and adaptations.
Continue ReadingAl-Qa'im bi-Amr Allah
Ascended to the Fatimid Caliphate in 934 and ruled until death in 946. Oversaw the period of consolidation in the empire and maintained control over regions including North Africa and parts of the Middle East. His rule marked efforts to establish Ismaili Shi'ism within the territories governed by the Fatimids, promoting religious activities and political stability.
Continue ReadingToe Blake
Played professional ice hockey and later became a successful coach in the National Hockey League (NHL). As a player, won three Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens. Transitioned to coaching, leading the Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships from the bench. Recognized for contributions to the sport and significant wins during a prolific coaching career.
Continue ReadingHarmon Killebrew
A professional baseball player, Killebrew spent the majority of his career with the Minnesota Twins. Renowned as a power hitter, he contributed significantly to the team’s success during the 1960s and early 1970s. One of the defining moments of his career came in 1969, when he won the American League Most Valuable Player award, highlighting his exceptional performance throughout the season. Killebrew's career encompassed numerous All-Star selections and he was pivotal in leading the Twins to the World Series in 1965, where the team faced the Los Angeles Dodgers. His prolific home run hitting ability established him as one of the premier sluggers of his era, making a lasting impression in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingLi Maozhen
Li Maozhen served as a powerful warlord and king during the late Tang dynasty. He established control over the region of Shuzhou in what is now Sichuan province. His reign was marked by significant military and political maneuvers aimed at maintaining autonomy amid the fragmented power structure of the dynasty. Li claimed the title of king and held sway over the local populace through both military force and political alliances. His authority extended until his death in 924, a period characterized by the disintegration of centralized power in China.
Continue ReadingErnest Nash
Born in Germany and later residing in Italy, a prominent photographer and scholar dedicated to the study and documentation of photography. Contributed significantly to the understanding of photographic techniques and the history of photography. Held academic positions to teach and share knowledge of visual arts. Produced numerous works that explored the interplay between photography and society. Nash's research included a focus on the evolution of photographic practices across different cultures.
Continue Reading