Alexander Obolensky

Rugby player and WWII pilot

Alexander Obolensky - Athletes & Sports Figures born February 17th, 1916
Born
Died
Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

Played rugby for England and made a significant contribution during World War II as a pilot. Achieved recognition for his performance in rugby union matches, notably in the 1939 match against Wales, where he scored two tries. His athletic career was cut short by the war, during which he served in the Royal Air Force and lost his life during a mission in 1943.

Scored two tries against Wales in 1939

Served as a pilot in the Royal Air Force

Other People Born on February 17th

Philipp Franz von Siebold

German physician and botanist
Born
February 17th, 1796 230 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1886 139 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent German physician and botanist, significant contributions were made to the study of Japanese flora and fauna. Conducted extensive research during a period of Western interest in Japan, focusing on the country's plant life. Established one of the first botanical gardens dedicated to Japanese species in Europe and contributed to the understanding of Japanese medicine. Published influential works that detailed the medicinal properties of various plants, enhancing Western knowledge of Eastern botanical practices.

Continue Reading

Dorothy Canfield Fisher

Educational reformer and author
Born
February 17th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1958 67 years ago — 79 years old

An educational reformer and social activist focused on progressive educational methodologies and children's literature. Authored several notable works, including 'Understood Betsy', which emphasized the importance of independence and self-reliance in children. Advocated for educational opportunities for marginalized populations and served on various committees dedicated to social causes. Worked with initiatives aimed at improving education standards in the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Marc Lawrence

Actor and director of 'The Big Clock'
Born
February 17th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2005 20 years ago — 95 years old

An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. In the 1940s, began appearing in films and gained recognition for roles in film noir. In 1948, starred in 'The Big Clock' and directed his first film, 'The Killing of Sister George' in 1968. Transitioned to television with guest roles in series such as 'Columbo' and 'The Golden Girls'. His work spanned several decades, contributing to both film and television as a creative force.

Continue Reading

Ruth Rendell

English crime writer and novelist
Born
February 17th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 11 years ago — 85 years old

An English author produced a substantial body of work in the crime and mystery genres. Noteworthy for the Inspector Wexford series, numerous standalone novels explored psychological and social themes. Achieved critical acclaim and commercial success for writing, winning several awards, including the Crime Writers' Association's Cartier Diamond Dagger and multiple Edgar Awards. Also recognized for contributions to literature and adapted works for television and film, enhancing the reach of the narratives beyond the page.

Continue Reading

Leevi Madetoja

Finnish composer known for symphonies
Born
February 17th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1947 78 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1887, a significant composer and music critic emerged from Finland. Studied at the Helsinki Music Institute and later in Germany. Contributed to the Finnish music scene during the early 20th century. Composed symphonic poems, operas, and choral works, blending Nordic folk music with classical forms. Notable compositions include the opera 'The Ostrobothnians' and several symphonies. Worked as a music critic and held various positions in Finnish music organizations. Died in 1947.

Continue Reading

Thomas J. Watson

American Businessman and IBM President
Born
February 17th, 1874 152 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1956 70 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent businessman, contributed significantly to the growth of the technology industry through leadership at International Business Machines Corporation (IBM). Oversaw transformation of IBM into a major player in the computer industry, emphasizing research and development. Implemented innovative sales strategies and corporate culture that shaped modern business practices. Advocated for the use of technology in commerce and education, facilitating its adoption and integration within various sectors.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 29th

Art Phillips

Canadian businessman and politician
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2013 13 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the 32nd Mayor of Vancouver from 1973 to 1977. Implemented numerous urban development initiatives and promoted public transit improvements. Led significant reforms in the municipal government structure to enhance transparency and accountability. Defended the interests of the city in the face of controversies regarding urban planning and development.

Continue Reading

Alexei Abrikosov

Physicist, 2003 Nobel laureate in Physics
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2017 9 years ago — 89 years old

A physicist contributed significantly to the theory of superconductivity. Developed the Ginzburg-Landau theory in collaboration with Vitaly Ginzburg, which provided a theoretical framework for understanding superconductors. His work led to the discovery of the Abrikosov vortex lattice, which describes the behavior of magnetic fields in type-II superconductors. Awards include the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2003 for contributions to the development of the theory of superconductivity. Held a prestigious position at Argonne National Laboratory and published extensively in the field of condensed matter physics.

Continue Reading

Johann Wilhelm Hässler

German pianist and composer
Born
March 29th, 1747 279 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1822 204 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1747, this musician contributed significantly to the classical music repertoire as both a pianist and a composer. Hässler studied music under the guidance of prominent figures of his time. His compositions included keyboard sonatas, concertos, and chamber music, enriching the cultural landscape of the late 18th century. He served as a conductor and music director in various European cities, where he had a lasting influence on musical education and performance practices. Hässler's works are characterized by their lyrical melodies and innovative forms, showcasing his skill as a composer and performer.

Continue Reading

Otto Hermann Kahn

German banker and philanthropist
Born
February 21st, 1867 159 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1934 92 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Germany, one of the most significant figures in American finance and the arts during the early 20th century. Kahn served as a partner at the investment bank Kuhn, Loeb & Co., where he played a pivotal role in financing the construction of the Panama Canal and the development of various railroads. A prominent philanthropist, he contributed substantially to cultural institutions, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, where he served as a trustee. Kahn's contributions to the arts extended to supporting music and education in numerous ways throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Alan Merrill

Musician and songwriter, co-wrote 'I Love Rock 'n' Roll'
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2020 6 years ago — 69 years old

An American musician and songwriter, played guitar and provided vocals for the band The Restless Hearts. Co-wrote the iconic song 'I Love Rock 'n' Roll', which gained immense popularity after being covered by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. Contributed to the music industry as a prominent figure in the glam rock movement during the 1970s. Throughout his career, collaborated with various artists and bands, leaving a lasting mark on rock music.

Continue Reading

Vivan Sundaram

Indian contemporary artist and sculptor
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2023 3 years ago — 80 years old

An influential contemporary artist, contributed to the Indian art scene through various mediums including painting and sculpture. Engaged with social and political themes, explored history and memory in works. Established the gallery, Gallery Espace, in New Delhi, promoting emerging artists while providing a significant platform for contemporary art. Participated in numerous exhibitions nationally and internationally, including the Kochi-Muziris Biennale and the Venice Biennale.

Continue Reading