André Maginot

French politician and military leader

André Maginot - Leaders & Politicians born February 17th, 1877
Born
Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

France

Links & References

Served as a French sergeant and later entered politics. Worked on defense matters, which led to the establishment of the Maginot Line, a series of fortifications along the French-German border. Focused on strengthening national security in response to the threats posed by Germany in the interwar period. The defense system was constructed in the 1920s and 1930s and aimed to protect France from potential invasions.

Established the Maginot Line fortifications

Served as a member of the French Parliament

Other People Born on February 17th

Zina Bethune

Actress and choreographer of 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
February 17th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 66 years old

An actress and choreographer, Bethune built a career in the entertainment industry, especially in television and stage productions. Gained recognition for performances in the classic series 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked as a choreographer for various dance performances and collaborated with multiple artists throughout her career. Also contributed to educational programs focusing on the performing arts. Competed in various dance competitions and earned accolades for her choreography.

Continue Reading

Taylor Hawkins

Rock musician and Foo Fighters drummer
Born
February 17th, 1972 53 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2022 3 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1972, this American musician gained prominence as the drummer for the rock band Foo Fighters. Initially played with the band Alanis Morissette before joining Foo Fighters in 1997, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. Released solo music under the name Taylor Hawkins and the Coattail Riders. Influenced by various rock legends and known for high-energy performances. Hawkins passed away in 2022, leaving a significant mark on the rock music scene.

Continue Reading

Duane Gish

Biochemist and creationist debater
Born
February 17th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent biochemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry and became a notable figure in the creationist movement. Published extensively on scientific topics, particularly those contrasting evolutionary theory with creationism. Actively participated in public debates and discussions regarding the validity of evolutionary biology versus creationist perspectives. Authored several books aimed at a popular audience, arguing for the creationist viewpoint and critiquing evolutionary science.

Continue Reading

Gene Pitney

Singer-Songwriter known for 'Twenty Four Hours From Tulsa'
Born
February 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1940, significant contributions to pop music occurred during the 1960s. Established a career as both a singer and songwriter, blending rock and roll with traditional pop. Achieved chart success with hit singles such as 'Town Without Pity' and 'The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance'. Notable for a distinctive voice and emotive delivery. Worked with numerous artists, writing and producing songs that further expanded his influence in the music industry. Continued to perform for several decades, gaining a dedicated fan base.

Continue Reading

Rózsa Péter

Hungarian mathematician and computer pioneer
Born
February 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1977 48 years ago — 71 years old

Contributions included foundational work in recursion theory and the theory of computation. Pioneered the use of mathematical logic and contributed to the development of the concept of recursive functions. Authored several influential texts in mathematics and computer science, emphasizing the educational aspects of these fields.

Continue Reading

Don Tallon

Australian cricketer and wicketkeeper
Born
February 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1984 41 years ago — 68 years old

Played first-class cricket for Queensland and represented Australia in Test matches between 1938 and 1946. Tallon was part of the Australian team that claimed the 1948 Ashes series against England. Known for exceptional skills as a wicketkeeper, Tallon contributed to the team's success with both glove work and batting support. After retiring, he also served as a selector for Queensland.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 7th

Jean-Marie Le Pen

French politician and far-right leader
Born
June 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2025 0 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a French politician and founded the National Front, a far-right political party. Held a position in the French National Assembly for several terms and was a prominent figure in French politics for decades. Advocated for strict immigration policies and was known for controversial statements regarding race and nationality. Ran for presidency multiple times, securing a significant portion of the vote in the 2002 election, reaching the second round against Jacques Chirac.

Continue Reading

Michael Apted

Film director of 'Up' documentary series
Born
February 10th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2021 4 years ago — 79 years old

Apted was an English filmmaker recognized for directing the 'Up' documentary series, which followed the lives of a group of individuals from different backgrounds since childhood. This series began with 'Seven Up!' in 1964 and continued with updates every seven years, showcasing the participants' evolving lives and perspectives. Beyond this landmark project, Apted directed notable films including 'Coal Miner's Daughter', earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay, and the James Bond film 'The World Is Not Enough'. He also served as president of the Directors Guild of America and was involved in various television projects throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Pope Innocent X

Catholic Pope during the 17th century
Born
1574 451 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1655 370 years ago — 81 years old

Served as Pope from 1644 until death in 1655. Oversaw significant events including the trial of Galileo Galilei regarding heliocentrism. Addressed political matters of the Thirty Years' War with efforts to mediate peace. Strengthened the power of the papacy and its influence in European politics. Commissioned art and architecture projects in Rome, further elevating the city's status as a center of Catholicism.

Continue Reading

Charles I of Naples

King of Naples, founded the Angevins
Born
1226 799 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1285 740 years ago — 59 years old

Held the title of King of Naples after receiving the crown in 1266. Established the Angevin dynasty in southern Italy and expanded the kingdom's influence through strategic marriages and alliances. Played a central role in the conflicts between the Guelphs and the Ghibellines, aligning with the papacy during his reign. Successfully captured the Kingdom of Sicily from the Hohenstaufen dynasty, solidifying power in the region. Implemented various administrative reforms that laid the groundwork for the governance of the kingdom.

Continue Reading

Henri Schwery

Swiss cardinal, served in the Vatican
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2021 4 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church. Held the position of Bishop of Sion from 1990 until retirement in 2006. Participated in the papal conclave of 2005 that elected Pope Benedict XVI. Contributed to various aspects of church governance and engaged in ecumenical dialogues throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed

Indian politician and Home Minister
Born
January 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent Indian lawyer and politician served as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir twice. Initially, played a significant role in the formation of the Jammu and Kashmir People's Democratic Party in 1999. Held office as the Minister of Home Affairs in the Indian government. Championed various policies during his tenure and was instrumental in advocating for regional autonomy and development in Jammu and Kashmir.

Continue Reading