Alexander Cartwright
Firefighter and inventor of baseball
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A firefighter contributed to the development of baseball, which evolved into the modern game. Established fundamental rules for the sport while serving as a member of the Knickerbocker Base Ball Club in New York City. Organized and promoted the first formal baseball game in 1846. His influential role in shaping the rules and structure of baseball helped lead to its widespread popularity throughout the United States.
Developed the modern rules of baseball
Organized the first baseball game in 1846
Other People Born on April 17th
Agostino Vallini
Cardinal and vicar general of Rome
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Ordained as a priest in 1967, held various positions within the Roman Catholic Church, becoming a prominent figure in the Vatican. Appointed as the vicar general of Rome in 2006, overseeing the pastoral care of the Diocese of Rome. Elevated to the cardinalate in 2012, contributing to the governance of the Church and participating in significant ecclesiastical events including papal conclaves.
Continue ReadingMarguerite Bourgeoys
French-Canadian nun and founder of schools
Born
April 17th, 1620 405 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1700 325 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 ReadingBilly Fury
English singer-songwriter and musician
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1983 42 years ago — 42 years old
An influential singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1950s. Achieved significant success in the UK music scene with rock and roll hits. First single, 'Maybe Tomorrow,' released in 1959, reached the UK charts. Released numerous albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with a distinctive style that combined elements of pop and rock. Continued to perform until health issues impacted career. Estimated to have sold over 1 million records throughout his career, cementing a lasting legacy in British music.
Continue ReadingAnja Silja
German soprano and actress in opera
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Born in Germany, a renowned soprano and actress emerged in the world of opera. Extensive career included performances in major opera houses worldwide. Achieved acclaim for portrayals in works such as 'Salome' and 'Ariadne auf Naxos'. Also participated in various theatrical productions, showcasing versatility across genres. Collaborated with several prestigious orchestras and conductors, significantly contributing to the operatic repertoire.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Battista Riccioli
Astronomer, wrote Almagestum Novum
Born
April 17th, 1598 427 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1671 354 years ago — 73 years old
An Italian priest and astronomer significantly contributed to the field of astronomy through the publication of Almagestum Novum in 1651. This work included extensive observations of celestial bodies, the formulation of new astronomical models, and the introduction of a system to classify stars. Riccioli's keen observations, particularly regarding the moon's surface, led to the first systematic study of lunar features. Additionally, he was instrumental in establishing the names of numerous lunar features that are still in use today.
Continue ReadingBen Barnes
American businessman and politician
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Served as the 36th Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1969 to 1973. Played a significant role in Texas politics during the late 20th century. Focused on education reform and public transportation issues while in office. Was also involved in various business endeavors after leaving public service.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 12th
Jimmy Driftwood
Singer-songwriter and banjo player
Born
June 20th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed significantly to American folk music as a singer-songwriter and banjo player. Gained prominence with the song 'The Battle of New Orleans', which won a Grammy Award. Engaged in education through music, composing over 300 songs while also serving as a school principal. Efforts to promote traditional folk music are noted in various recordings and performances.
Continue ReadingDouglas Hyde
Irish politician, 1st President of Ireland
Born
January 17th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1949 76 years ago — 89 years old
An academic and politician served as the first President of Ireland from 1938 to 1945. Played a vital role in advocating for the Irish language and culture. Founded the Gaelic League in 1893, which promoted the revival of the Irish language. Contributed significantly to Irish literature and was a scholar of Irish folklore and history. His presidency emphasized the importance of unity and national identity during a period of political change.
Continue ReadingAshikaga Yoshinori
Japanese shōgun during Muromachi period
Born
July 12th, 1394 631 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1441 584 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1394, held the position of shōgun from 1429 until 1441. His reign was marked by attempts to strengthen the Ashikaga shogunate and consolidate power within the court. Faced challenges from regional rivalries and conflicts during his tenure. Known for the tumultuous political landscape of the Muromachi period. Assassinated in 1441, his death led to further instability in the region.
Continue ReadingCharles Rolls
Engineer and co-founder of Rolls-Royce
Born
August 27th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1910 115 years ago — 32 years old
An English engineer and businessman, co-founded Rolls-Royce Limited in 1904. The company became a prominent manufacturer of luxury automobiles and aircraft engines. Rolls was instrumental in establishing the high standards of engineering and quality that defined the Rolls-Royce brand. He was also an aviation pioneer, known for his enthusiasm for flying and his contributions to early aviation. Rolls tragically died in a flying accident in 1910.
Continue ReadingCharles Merritt
Canadian colonel and Victoria Cross recipient
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2000 25 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a colonel in the Canadian Army during World War II. Participated in the Battle of the Bismarck Sea in 1945. Awarded the Victoria Cross for exceptional bravery in combat while serving with the Royal Canadian Army during the war. After military service, pursued a political career and was elected as a Member of Parliament in Canada, representing the position for multiple terms. Contributed to various initiatives within the political landscape of the country until retirement.
Continue ReadingElaine Morgan
Welsh writer and aquatic ape hypothesis proponent
Born
November 7th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
A Welsh writer, contributed significantly to the field of evolutionary anthropology, particularly through the aquatic ape hypothesis. This hypothesis proposed that some human evolutionary traits may have developed in an aquatic or semi-aquatic environment. Published several books exploring this hypothesis, including 'The Descent of Woman' and 'The Aquatic Ape.' Engaged in public debates regarding evolutionary theory and anthropological perspectives, advocating for a broader understanding of human evolution. Also wrote extensively on issues concerning women's rights and societal roles.
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