Aleksander Tõnisson
Estonian general and Minister of War
This individual served as a general and politician in Estonia, significantly influencing the military landscape of the country. As the 5th Minister of War, handled military affairs during the crucial early years of Estonia's independence. Played a vital role in the organization and establishment of the Estonian Defense Forces during the War of Independence. Contributed to shaping Estonia's national defense policies in the post-war period, fostering military infrastructure and training programs.
Served as the 5th Minister of War of Estonia
Played a crucial role in the Estonian War of Independence
Other People Born on April 17th
John McCririck
English journalist and horse racing pundit
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in horse racing journalism, McCririck contributed to various publications and television programs. Worked extensively with ITV and Channel 4, providing insights and analysis for racing enthusiasts. Known for distinctive style characterized by his hats and flamboyant personality. Participated in several reality TV shows, including 'Celebrity Big Brother'. Also wrote columns for various newspapers, sharing perspectives on the racing industry and betting.
Continue ReadingBuster Williams
Jazz bassist and composer
Born
April 17th, 1942 83 years ago
A prominent jazz bassist and composer, contributions span several decades in the music industry. Early collaborations included work with renowned artists such as McCoy Tyner and Art Davis. Williams became a significant figure in the jazz scene, recognized for his innovative approach to bass playing. He participated in numerous recordings, showcasing his skill and creativity. Notable projects include work on the album 'Crystal Silence' alongside Chick Corea and Gary Burton, which set a standard for jazz fusion.
Continue ReadingMarguerite Bourgeoys
French-Canadian nun and founder of schools
Born
April 17th, 1620 405 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1700 326 years ago — 79 years old
A French-Canadian nun established the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal in the 17th century. This religious community focused on the education of young girls and played a critical role in the development of educational institutions in New France. Additionally, she was involved in missionary work and the spiritual life of the early settlers. Canonized as a saint in 1982, her contributions to education and religious life are commemorated in various institutions in Canada.
Continue ReadingNick Hornby
English novelist and screenwriter
Born
April 17th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in 1957, this English novelist, essayist, lyricist, and screenwriter gained recognition for works exploring themes of music, relationships, and adolescent experiences. The debut novel, "Fever Pitch," detailed a passionate obsession with football, blending autobiography and sports commentary. Subsequent novels, including "High Fidelity" and "About a Boy," garnered critical acclaim and were adapted into successful films, further establishing a career in screenwriting. Contributions to music journalism and various essays displayed an ongoing engagement with popular culture. The collaboration with musician Ben Folds resulted in a musical adaptation of "High Fidelity."
Continue ReadingLindsay Anderson
English director and screenwriter
Born
April 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1994 31 years ago — 71 years old
An English director and screenwriter, played a significant role in British cinema. Featured prominently in the British New Wave movement, directed the acclaimed film 'If....' in 1968, which explored themes of rebellion in a British boarding school. Played a key part in the film 'O Lucky Man!' in 1973, which combined social commentary with absurdist humor. Worked extensively in theater, directing influential stage productions.
Continue ReadingRichard Allen Epstein
American lawyer and academic author
Born
April 17th, 1943 82 years ago
Born in 1943, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and analysis. Focused on property rights, torts, and commercial law. Served as a law professor at the University of Chicago and New York University. Published extensively on law and economics, advocating for libertarian principles. Held various academic and professional roles throughout career, offering clout in debates on law reforms and policy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 30th
Gale Gordon
American actor, remembered for sitcom roles
Born
February 20th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1995 30 years ago — 89 years old
An accomplished American actor, notable contributions include prominent roles on television comedies. Achievements include portraying characters on 'The Lucy Show' and 'Here's Lucy', establishing a strong presence in the genre. Gordon frequently collaborated with Lucille Ball, showcasing his comedic talents alongside her during the heyday of classic television. His work spanned several decades, from the 1940s to the 1980s, and he achieved success both in live performances and recorded media.
Continue ReadingSt. Theobald Of Provins
Religious leader and saint
Died
June 30th, 1066 959 years ago — None years old
St. Theobald of Provins served as a Benedictine abbot in the 11th century. He was instrumental in the reform of monastic life and established the Abbey of St. Theobald in Provins, which became a center for religious devotion and education. His leadership emphasized the importance of piety, humility, and community living among monks. Theobald gained recognition for his dedication to the monastic reform movement initiated by the Cluniac Order, encouraging stricter adherence to the Rule of St. Benedict. His influence contributed to the enhancement of spiritual life and religious practices during that period. After his death, he was canonized, becoming a patron saint in the region, where his feast day is celebrated annually.
Continue ReadingYrjö Saarela
Finnish wrestler and Olympic coach
Born
July 13th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1951 74 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1884, this individual achieved acclaim as a wrestler and later transitioned into coaching. Competing in Greco-Roman wrestling, notable participation came during the Olympic Games, where significant recognition was garnered. In the coaching realm, developed training methodologies that contributed to the success of numerous athletes, fostering growth within the sport. Contributed to the advancement of wrestling in Finland, influencing future generations of wrestlers.
Continue ReadingSimon Vouet
French painter known for Baroque style
Born
January 9th, 1590 436 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1649 376 years ago — 59 years old
Activity spanned the early 17th century. Worked primarily in France, significantly influencing the development of French Baroque painting. Commissioned for various works by the French nobility and the Church. Developed a signature style that blended Italian influences with a distinct French sensibility. Returned to France in 1625 after time spent in Italy. His work was characterized by dynamic compositions, rich color palettes, and dramatic use of light. Important contributions were made to the decoration of churches and public buildings.
Continue ReadingGeorgy Dobrovolsky
Soviet Ukrainian astronaut and pilot
Born
June 1st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1971 54 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1928, contributed to space exploration as a cosmonaut. Participated in the Soyuz 7 mission in 1970, where three crew members conducted scientific experiments in orbit. The mission lasted 14 days, marking significant advancements in long-duration spaceflight. After the mission, returned to Earth, but tragically lost life during the Soyuz 11 re-entry in June 1971 due to cabin depressurization. Legacy continues through advancements in space safety procedures.
Continue ReadingJohn William Strutt
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 12th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1919 106 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent physicist and academic, a key contributor to the study of sound and light. Conducted experiments that advanced the understanding of the scattering of light, leading to the formulation of Rayleigh scattering. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1904 for investigations of the densities of the most important gases and the methods employed in their investigation. Also engaged in university administration, serving as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge and played a significant role in academic governance.
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