Alan Kay
Computer Scientist and Academic
A computer scientist and academic contributed significantly to the development of object-oriented programming and the concept of personal computing. Developed the Smalltalk programming language, which laid the groundwork for modern programming paradigms. Advocated for the use of computers in education, coining the term 'personal computer'. Participated in early research at Xerox PARC, leading to innovations that influenced future technologies.
Developed the Smalltalk programming language
Pioneered concepts of object-oriented programming
Influenced the development of personal computing
Promoted the use of computers in education
Other People Born on May 17th
Michael Beetham
English Air Chief Marshal and pilot
Born
May 17th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a commander in the Royal Air Force during World War II and beyond. Commanded No. 1 Group in the United Kingdom and later served as Chief of the Air Staff from 1979 to 1982. Played a significant role in the restructuring of the RAF during the Cold War. Oversaw various operations and initiatives during his time in service, contributing to the development of modern military aviation strategies.
Continue ReadingYelena Gorchakova
Javelin thrower and Olympic champion
Born
May 17th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 69 years old
Competed in javelin throw representing the Soviet Union. Claimed a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Achieved significant national records during the athletic career, earning recognition within the sport. Participated in various international competitions, consistently showcasing proficiency in javelin technique and distance.
Continue ReadingDennis Potter
English screenwriter and television director
Born
May 17th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
1994 32 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent screenwriter and director, contributions spanned television and film. Created influential works that explored complex characters and narratives. Notable for the television series 'Pennies from Heaven' and 'The Singing Detective', which garnered critical acclaim and audience attention. Utilized innovative storytelling techniques and incorporated musical elements into scripts. Later works addressed themes of mortality and memory, reflecting personal experiences.
Continue ReadingOzzie Virgil Sr.
Baseball player and coach with the Giants
Born
May 17th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2024 1 years ago — 92 years old
A Dominican baseball player and coach, made significant contributions to Major League Baseball. Played as a third baseman and outfielder for several teams, including the New York and San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, and Detroit Tigers. Transitioned to coaching after retirement with a focus on developing young players. His career in professional baseball spanned several decades, participating in both the major leagues and international tournaments.
Continue ReadingHazel R. O'Leary
Lawyer and 7th U.S. Secretary of Energy
Born
May 17th, 1937 89 years ago
Served as the 7th Secretary of Energy from 1993 to 1995. Oversaw the department during significant nuclear safety reforms and increased transparency regarding the U.S. nuclear weapons program. Advocated for environmental justice and energy policy reforms during tenure. Worked as a lawyer before holding the Cabinet position, including serving as a Vice President of Public Affairs for a notable utility company.
Continue ReadingPeter Burge
Australian Cricketer and Test Player
Born
May 17th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 69 years old
A notable Australian cricketer, played as a right-handed batsman and represented Australia in Test matches from 1953 to 1961. His first-class cricket career spanned from 1948 to 1962, primarily with Queensland. Burge made significant contributions to the game, particularly noted for his batting skills and playing style. He participated in 34 Test matches during his international career, scoring 2,030 runs. Burge was part of the Australian team that won the Ashes series in 1958-59 against England.
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