Alexander Briant
English martyr and saint
Born in 1556, this individual became a significant figure in the English Catholic martyrdom during the Reformation. Educated at the University of Oxford, he joined the Jesuit order and was ordained as a priest. He returned to England as a missionary, promoting Catholic beliefs during a time of intense Protestant rule. Arrested for treason in 1581, he was executed for his faith, recognized for his commitment to Catholicism and his opposition to the Protestant establishment. His actions and ultimate sacrifice led to his canonization as a saint by the Catholic Church.
Joining the Jesuit order
Martyrdom for Catholicism in England
Canonization as a saint
Other People Born on August 17th
Nicola Porpora
Italian composer and educator
Born
August 17th, 1686 339 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1768 257 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in 18th-century music, Porpora achieved significant recognition as a composer and vocal teacher. His work includes numerous operas, sacred music, and cantatas, which were influential in the development of Italian opera. Porpora was a key figure in the Neapolitan opera scene and contributed to the education of several renowned singers of the time, including Farinelli. His compositions were noted for their melodic beauty and complex vocal lines, showcasing the capabilities of the singers he trained.
Continue ReadingRichard of Shrewsbury
Duke of York, son of Edward IV
Born
August 17th, 1473 552 years ago
Died
1483 543 years ago — 10 years old
Born in 1473, Richard of Shrewsbury served as the Duke of York during the turbulent period of the Wars of the Roses. He was the second son of King Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville. Following the death of his father in 1483, Richard became a prominent figure in the struggle for the English throne. In 1484, Richard was captured and imprisoned in the Tower of London. He was declared illegitimate, and his status as a potential claimant to the throne effectively diminished. The fates of Richard and his brother, the Prince of Wales, remain uncertain, leading to historical intrigue regarding their disappearance. Richard's life and the mystery of his fate contributed to the enduring legacy of the Plantagenet dynasty.
Continue ReadingEd McCaffrey
American football player and sportscaster
Born
August 17th, 1968 57 years ago
A former professional American football player and sportscaster, made significant contributions on the field as a wide receiver. Played for the San Francisco 49ers, New York Giants, and Denver Broncos during a career spanning from 1991 to 2003. Won three Super Bowl championships, including Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII with the Broncos. Transitioned to broadcasting after retirement, providing analysis and commentary on various sports networks.
Continue ReadingPatrick Manning
Trinidadian politician, former Prime Minister
Born
August 17th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the fourth Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago from 1991 to 1995 and again from 2001 to 2010. Held leadership roles in the People's National Movement and contributed to various legislative reforms during time in office. Participated in regional and international politics, advocating for issues affecting the Caribbean.
Continue ReadingSue Draheim
American fiddler and folk musician
Born
August 17th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 63 years old
An American fiddler, contributions included performances at various folk music festivals and traditional gatherings. Instrumental in promoting and preserving folk music traditions, particularly in the Appalachian style. Collaborated with multiple artists in the folk music scene, showcasing skills in both solo and group settings.
Continue ReadingMarcus Garvey
Jamaican activist and Black Star Line founder
Born
August 17th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1940 85 years ago — 52 years old
Born in Jamaica, a prominent journalist and activist emerged, advocating for the rights and empowerment of people of African descent. Founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in 1914, which aimed to unite and uplift the global African community. Established the Black Star Line, a shipping company intended to facilitate trade and transport for the African diaspora. Promoted the philosophy of Black nationalism and Pan-Africanism, encouraging economic independence and self-reliance among African-Americans. Garvey faced legal troubles, including a conviction for mail fraud, leading to deportation from the United States to Jamaica in 1927. Continued activism in Jamaica and later in London. His ideas and initiatives influenced future civil rights movements.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 1st
Terry Griffiths
Snooker player and world champion
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old
A professional snooker player and coach with significant achievements in the sport, including winning the World Snooker Championship in 1979. Established a reputation as a skilled competitor and later transitioned to coaching, helping to develop future talents in snooker. Contributed to the sport through various roles, including commentary and mentoring.
Continue ReadingDimitrios Trichopoulos
Epidemiologist and oncologist, Harvard.
Born
December 9th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
This individual served as an epidemiologist and oncologist, significantly contributing to cancer research and public health. Educated in Greece, the academic career included a long tenure at Harvard University, where research focused on the connection between diet, lifestyle, and cancer incidence. This person co-authored various influential studies that underscored the importance of environmental factors in cancer development. The individual also engaged in global health initiatives, promoting cancer prevention strategies through educational campaigns and collaborations with international health organizations.
Continue ReadingBruce Trigger
Archaeologist and historian specializing in Canada
Born
June 18th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2006 19 years ago — 69 years old
An influential Canadian archaeologist, anthropologist, and historian specialized in prehistoric North America. Contributions to archaeological theory and method shaped the field significantly. Held a position at McGill University, where research focused on cultural development and social organization among Indigenous peoples. Published numerous articles and books, critically examining the relationships between archaeology and anthropology, bridging historical narratives with scientific evidence. Engaged in fieldwork in various archaeological sites across Canada, enhancing understanding of indigenous cultures and histories.
Continue ReadingYehudah HaNasi
Rabbi and editor of the Mishnah
Died
December 1st, 217 1808 years ago — None years old
A leading Jewish sage in the late 2nd century, played a crucial role in compiling the Mishnah, a foundational text of Rabbinic Judaism. Acted as a political leader during Roman rule in Judea. His leadership contributed to the preservation and transmission of Jewish law and tradition in a period of significant upheaval. Also known for establishing a religious academy in Tiberias, fostering scholarship.
Continue ReadingTrevor Obst
Footballer and coach in Australia
Born
1940 86 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
Played Australian rules football and later transitioned into coaching. Had a notable playing career with the East Perth Football Club in the West Australian Football League. Led the East Perth Football Club as a senior coach, contributing to the development of players and tactics in the sport. Actively participated in promoting Australian rules football at various levels.
Continue ReadingRob Blokzijl
Physicist and computer scientist
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 72 years old
Contributions spanned physics and computer science, emphasizing the development and understanding of communication networks. Played a significant role in establishing the science park at the University of Twente. Published extensively in the field of optical communications and was instrumental in advancing research methodologies. His work synthesized theoretical principles with practical applications in networking technologies.
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