Agostinho Neto
Angolan poet and first president
A poet and politician, this individual served as the first President of Angola from 1975 until 1979. Alongside political leadership, significant contributions to poetry highlighted themes of struggle and nationalism, solidifying a legacy in Angolan literature. The individual was involved in the anti-colonial movement and played a crucial role in shaping the independence of Angola from Portuguese rule. The presidency was marked by efforts to establish a socialist state amidst civil conflict.
Authored key pieces of Angolan literature
Served as the first President of Angola
Other People Born on September 17th
Pumpkinhead
American rapper with cult following
Born
September 17th, 1975 50 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 39 years old
Emerging from the underground hip hop scene in the mid-1990s, a rapper gained recognition for intricate lyrics and skilled performances. This artist became influential in battle rap circles and was associated with the New York City hip hop community. Releases include the acclaimed album 'The Pumpkinhead' and various mixtapes that showcased lyrical prowess. Collaborations with prominent artists enhanced visibility in the genre. Engaged in community initiatives supporting youth in hip hop culture.
Continue ReadingMarthinus Wessel Pretorius
South African politician and general
Born
September 17th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1901 124 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent general and statesman, this individual became the first President of the South African Republic in 1857, significantly shaping the early governance of the republic. Originally from the Cape Colony, engagement in the Great Trek led to participation in the establishment of Boer settlements in the interior of South Africa. Leadership during the Zulu Wars and defense of Boer territories highlighted military capabilities. His presidency included efforts to consolidate the political structure and address territorial disputes. He remained an influential figure in the establishment of a Boer government and in the political landscape of the region until his death in 1901.
Continue ReadingYuji Naka
Video game designer, created Sonic
Born
September 17th, 1965 60 years ago
A prominent video game designer, played a significant role in the creation and development of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. Began career at Sega, where contributions to numerous titles cemented his place in gaming history. Served as director and programmer for various projects, influencing the evolution of platform games. Established his own company after leaving Sega, focusing on new game developments utilizing innovative designs and technologies.
Continue ReadingLupe Ontiveros
American actress in film and television
Born
September 17th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 69 years old
An accomplished actress, recognized for roles in both film and television, particularly in projects that delve into Hispanic culture and identity. Achievements include significant performances in 'Selena' as the mother of Selena Quintanilla and in 'The Goonies' portraying the character of Rosalita. Career spanned over several decades, showcasing talents across a variety of genres and platforms.
Continue ReadingJ. R. Jayewardene
Sri Lankan politician, 2nd President
Born
September 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the second President of Sri Lanka from 1978 to 1989. Was a prominent lawyer prior to his presidency and played a significant role in shaping the country's political landscape. Implemented economic reforms that transitioned Sri Lanka towards a more open economic policy. Was a member of the United National Party and held various ministerial positions before assuming the presidency. Contributed to the establishment of a new constitution that provided greater executive powers to the presidency.
Continue ReadingI. L. Patterson
American politician, 18th Governor of Oregon
Born
September 17th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1929 96 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 18th Governor of Oregon from 1927 to 1931. Prior held the position of state treasurer and was active in state politics. During tenure as governor, focused on economic issues and the state's infrastructure. Advocated for policies that addressed the challenges faced by Oregon during the late 1920s and early 1930s. Engaged in efforts to modernize state government operations and improved relations with various interest groups within the state.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 10th
Charles Drake
American actor in 'Mildred Pierce'
Born
October 2nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1994 31 years ago — 76 years old
An American actor, active primarily in film and television during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for appearances in several classic films and television series. Played significant roles in the film 'Mildred Pierce' and the television series 'The Twilight Zone'. Appeared in various other productions, contributing to the entertainment industry over several decades.
Continue ReadingGeorge Paget Thomson
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 3rd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1975 50 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent English physicist and academic, contributions to physics include research on electron diffraction, which demonstrated the wave-like properties of electrons. The work provided significant enhancement to quantum mechanics and solidified the understanding of wave-particle duality. In 1937, the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded for these contributions, sharing the honor with Clinton Davisson. Thomson was also involved in education, holding various academic positions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingRobert Gammage
American politician and captain
Born
March 13th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1938, this individual served as a captain in the U.S. Army and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Texas. The individual was a member of the Democratic Party and served in Congress during the 1970s. In addition to military service, held various leadership roles in local governance and contributed to the legislative process.
Continue ReadingZaib-un-Nissa Hamidullah
Journalist and author of India-Pakistan
Born
December 25th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1921, a prominent journalist and author focused on socio-political issues in India and Pakistan. Worked as a pioneer in women's rights advocacy and wrote extensively on gender equality. Contributed to various publications, bringing attention to pressing social issues faced by women and minorities in the region. Played a significant role in shaping modern discourse around women's empowerment during a transformative period in South Asian history.
Continue ReadingNorman Farberow
Psychologist and pioneer in suicide prevention
Born
February 12th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of psychology with a focus on suicide prevention. Served as a professor and held various leadership roles in academic institutions. Co-founded the Los Angeles Suicide Prevention Center, which marked a pivotal development in crisis intervention and mental health support. Published extensively on mental health issues and helped shape strategies for addressing suicidal behaviors. Involved in training professionals in the field, influencing practices related to mental health and crisis response.
Continue ReadingDiana Rigg
English actress in theater and television
Born
July 20th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2020 5 years ago — 82 years old
An English actress gained prominence through performances in theater, television, and film. Played the character Emma Peel in the television series 'The Avengers' during the 1960s. In later years, appeared in the HBO series 'Game of Thrones' as Olenna Tyrell. Acted in numerous stage productions and received acclaim for roles in both classic and contemporary plays. Acquired a reputation for strong performances, particularly in works by Shakespeare and modern playwrights.
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