Anne Brontë
English author and poet, 'The Tenant of Wildfell Hall'
Born in 1820, contributed to English literature alongside siblings Charlotte and Emily. Published novels and poetry that explored social issues and women's rights. 'Agnes Grey' and 'The Tenant of Wildfell Hall' reflect themes of morality and women's independence. Worked as a governess, which influenced literary works, focusing on the struggles of women in society.
'Agnes Grey' explored the challenges of governesses.
'The Tenant of Wildfell Hall' addressed women's rights.
Other People Born on January 17th
Andy Kaufman
Comedian and actor of 'Taxi' fame
Born
January 17th, 1949 77 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1984 42 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1949, a performer gained notoriety in the 1970s and 1980s. Initially became popular as a comedian with unique, unconventional performances. Gained wider fame for portraying Latka Gravas on the television series 'Taxi.' Achieved success in wrestling, engaging in notable matches and feuds, particularly with Jerry Lawler. Blended performance art and comedy, often blurring the lines between reality and illusion. His approach influenced future generations of comedians and performers.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Ali
Boxer and civil rights activist
Born
January 17th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2016 10 years ago — 74 years old
Renowned as one of the greatest boxers of all time, this individual earned the world heavyweight title three times. In the 1960s, he became a prominent figure for his stance against the Vietnam War, refusing military service on religious grounds and facing legal challenges. His boxing career included legendary bouts, such as the 'Fight of the Century' against Joe Frazier in 1971, and the iconic 'Rumble in the Jungle' against George Foreman in 1974. Beyond the ring, this individual advocated for civil rights and humanitarian causes throughout his life.
Continue ReadingDalida
Singer and actress, 'Bambino'
Born
January 17th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1987 39 years ago — 54 years old
Born in Egypt and later moving to France, a significant career spanned several decades in music and film. Rose to prominence in the late 1950s with the hit single 'Bambino', which became a major milestone. Recorded songs in multiple languages including French, Italian, Arabic, and Spanish. Acted in films such as 'The Tontons Flingueurs' and 'Sirocco'. Achieved substantial success across the globe, earning numerous awards throughout a storied career.
Continue ReadingFrederick III
Elector of Saxony and humanist patron
Born
January 17th, 1463 563 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1525 501 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1463, Frederick III served as the Elector of Saxony. He was a significant figure in the early stages of the Protestant Reformation. Hosting Martin Luther at his court, he provided crucial support for Luther's writings and ideas. Frederick's role as the protector of Luther allowed for the establishment of Protestantism in Saxony. Additionally, he was an advocate for education and the arts, contributing to the development of the University of Wittenberg, which became a center for Reformation thought. His death in 1525 marked the end of an influential leadership during a transformative period in European history.
Continue ReadingTan Boon Teik
Attorney-General of Singapore
Born
January 17th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 83 years old
Served as Attorney-General of Singapore from 1963 to 1989. Played a significant role in establishing the legal framework for the newly independent nation. Contributed to the development of policies that shaped the Malaysian and Singaporean legal systems. Engaged in key cases that influenced public and private law in Singapore.
Continue ReadingSophie Molineux
Australian cricketer with international caps
Born
January 17th, 1998 28 years ago
An Australian cricketer who plays as an all-rounder. Participated in the national team in various international formats, making significant contributions with both bat and ball. Represented Australia in multiple Women's One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). Made an impact in domestic cricket, playing for Victoria and the Melbourne Renegades in the Women's Big Bash League. Achieved recognition for skills in spin bowling and powerful batting performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Beryl Cook
English painter and illustrator of humor
Born
September 10th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2008 18 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1926, an English painter and illustrator specialized in depicting humorous and lively scenes of everyday life. Best known for vibrant and whimsical portrayals of people, often celebrating their joy and eccentricities. Gained recognition in the 1970s, utilizing bold colors and exaggerated forms. Works displayed in many galleries, showcasing the charm and humor of contemporary life. Authored several books featuring illustrations that further demonstrate artistic style. Continued to create art until her later years, influencing a distinctive approach to observational painting.
Continue ReadingBob Houbregs
Canadian basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
March 12th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2014 12 years ago — 82 years old
Played college basketball at the University of Washington. Had a successful professional career in the NBA, primarily with the Milwaukee Hawks. Was selected as an NBA All-Star in 1953, showcasing skills as a forward-center. Contributed significantly to various teams throughout his career, known for scoring and rebounding. Additionally, played with the Toronto Huskies in the early years of professional basketball in Canada.
Continue ReadingSaitō Dōsan
Japanese samurai and warlord
Born
1494 532 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1556 470 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent samurai and warlord in the 16th century, played a significant role in the Sengoku period of Japan. Established a powerful base in Mino Province. Aligned with influential clans and engaged in multiple military campaigns to expand territorial control. His leadership cultivated notable alliances and fortified defenses against rival factions, contributing to shifting power dynamics during the era. Eventually faced defeat, leading to the decline of his stronghold.
Continue ReadingIlya Prigogine
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 25th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2003 23 years ago — 86 years old
Contributions to thermodynamics and physical chemistry included the formulation of the theory of dissipative structures. This work highlighted the behavior of complex systems far from equilibrium. Served as director of the International Solvay Institutes and held a professorship at the Université Libre de Bruxelles. In 1977, received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for contributions that advanced the understanding of thermodynamic processes.
Continue ReadingMaya Angelou
Memoirist and poet, wrote 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings'
Born
April 4th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2014 12 years ago — 86 years old
A significant figure in American literature, she authored several autobiographies, with 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings' being the most acclaimed, detailing her early life and experiences of racism and trauma. Angelou held various roles throughout her career, including a dancer, singer, and civil rights activist. She recited her poem 'On the Pulse of Morning' at the inauguration of President Bill Clinton in 1993, marking a historic moment in American poetry. Angelou's work focused on themes of identity, family, and resilience, making notable contributions to literature and civil rights.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Varela
Chilean biologist and philosopher
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2001 25 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent figure in biology and philosophy, contributions included the development of enaction as a framework for understanding cognition, which emphasized the role of embodied experience. Collaborated with cognitive science, neuroscience, and philosophy, establishing interdisciplinary links. Worked on biological theories of cognition and explored the phenomenology of life. Co-authored 'The Embodied Mind', integrating Buddhist concepts with cognitive science.
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