André Maginot

French politician and military leader

André Maginot - French politician and military leader
Born

February 17th, 1877
148 years ago

Died

January 7th, 1932
93 years ago — 54 years old

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

John Cooke

English Captain of the 19th century
Born
February 17th, 1762 263 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1805 220 years ago — 43 years old

Captain served as a naval officer in the British Royal Navy during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Actively participated in various naval engagements and contributed to maritime operations of the period. His leadership and tactical skills were notable in several conflicts, highlighting the naval strength of Britain at the time. Cooke's career spanned significant events in naval history, making him a recognized figure in English naval expeditions.

Continue Reading

Jim Brown

American football player and actor
Born
February 17th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2023 2 years ago — 87 years old

An American football player and actor, celebrated as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Played for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965, revolutionizing the position with his powerful running style and agility. Achieved three MVP awards and won the NFL Championship in 1964. Transitioned to acting after retirement, featuring in films such as 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Any Given Sunday'.

Continue Reading

Ísis Valverde

Brazilian actress in telenovelas
Born
February 17th, 1987 38 years ago

Born in Brazil, an actress gained prominence in Brazilian television. Starred in the telenovela 'Avenida Brasil', which became a major success and garnered high ratings. Appeared in several other popular telenovelas, including 'Amor à Vida' and 'O Outro Lado do Paraíso'. Valverde also worked in films, showcasing versatility in various roles. Received several awards for performances, highlighting contributions to Brazilian entertainment.

Continue Reading

Helena of Waldeck and Pyrmont

Duchess of Albany
Born
February 17th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 61 years old

Born into a noble family in 1861, this duchess became the wife of Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn. Marriage took place in 1879 and resulted in three children. This duchess took on various royal duties and participated in charitable activities, especially concerning education and health. Later years involved supporting her husband's military-related engagements and honorary roles, contributing to the royal family’s public service.

Continue Reading

Katie Hill

Australian wheelchair basketball player
Born
February 17th, 1984 41 years ago

Competed in wheelchair basketball, representing Australia at various international events. Participated in the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, contributing to the team's efforts in the competition. Played at the club level in the National Wheelchair Basketball League, showcasing skills and athleticism. Helped to promote the sport and inspire future generations of athletes in wheelchair basketball.

Continue Reading

Barry Humphries

Australian comedian and actor
Born
February 17th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 89 years old

An Australian comedian, actor, and author, significant contributions to the entertainment industry included the creation of iconic characters such as Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson. Started performing in the 1950s and went on to become a prominent figure in television, stage, and film. Achieved international acclaim through live performances and television specials. Authored several books reflecting on personal experiences and the world of entertainment. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts over a lengthy career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 7th

Trevor Howard

English actor in classic films
Born
September 29th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1988 37 years ago — 74 years old

An English actor, achieved prominence in the mid-20th century. Featured in a range of films across various genres, with a notable role in "Brief Encounter" and performances in "The Third Man" and "The Bounty." Became a respected figure in the acting community for stage and screen work. Worked in partnership with acclaimed directors and fellow actors throughout a notable career in film and theater.

Continue Reading

Nikola Tesla

Inventor of alternating current systems
Born
July 10th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1943 82 years ago — 86 years old

An inventor and electrical engineer, focused on the development of alternating current (AC) electrical systems. Created the Tesla coil and contributed to the design of the modern AC electricity supply system. Worked for Thomas Edison before establishing his own laboratory where numerous inventions were developed. Held over 300 patents in various international jurisdictions. Engaged in experiments related to wireless communication and energy transmission. His later years were marked by a focus on wireless technology and ambition to create a global communication system.

Continue Reading

Raffaello Fabretti

Italian scholar and author of antiquities
Born
1618 407 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1700 325 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of ancient Roman inscriptions and archaeology. Authored multiple works that detailed Roman antiquities, including the influential text 'De Aquis et Aqueductibus Veteris Urbis Romae'. Worked as a scholar in Rome, where extensive research on ancient Rome's water systems and infrastructure took place. Played a vital role in the field of epigraphy, and his studies offered insights into the civilization's engineering and public works.

Continue Reading

Joseph Dennie

Journalist and author of Port Folio
Born
August 30th, 1768 257 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1812 213 years ago — 43 years old

American journalist and author edited the influential magazine Port Folio, which helped shape literary culture in the early 19th century. Established a reputation as a prominent figure in American journalism through insightful critiques and essays. Influenced contemporary thought and artistic expression with a focus on the American experience. Contributed significantly to discussions around literature, politics, and society in the early republic.

Continue Reading

Caleb Blood Smith

U.S. Secretary of the Interior
Born
April 16th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1864 161 years ago — 55 years old

Served as the 6th U.S. Secretary of the Interior from 1861 to 1862. Participated in the early stages of the Civil War as part of President Abraham Lincoln's cabinet. Engaged in policy-making that impacted the management of public lands and resources. Prior to the cabinet position, held a significant role in journalism and contributed to the establishment of various public policies.

Continue Reading

John Berryman

Poet and scholar of modern literature
Born
October 25th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1972 53 years ago — 57 years old

Acclaimed as a significant American poet, contributions spanned from the mid-20th century until death in 1972. Works included the influential 'The Dream Songs,' a collection that showcased innovative use of form and voice. Engaged in academia, teaching at institutions such as the University of Minnesota, and explored themes of personal and cultural identity through intricate verse.

Continue Reading