Arthur Miller
American playwright and essayist
An influential American playwright and essayist, contributed significantly to the theatrical landscape of the 20th century. Explored themes of identity, morality, and societal pressures in works. 'Death of a Salesman' received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1949 and remains a staple of American theatre. 'The Crucible', written during the McCarthy era, critiqued the hysteria surrounding communism and won critical acclaim. Authored several essays and non-fiction works highlighting social issues and the role of the playwright in society.
Wrote 'Death of a Salesman'
Wrote 'The Crucible'
Received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama
Other People Born on October 17th
Gregg Wallace
Television presenter and MasterChef host
Born
October 17th, 1964 61 years ago
A television presenter widely recognized for hosting the BBC's MasterChef and its various spin-offs. Began a career in the food industry, founding a successful fruit and vegetable company. Transitioned into television, where an engaging style and enthusiasm for cooking led to appearances on various culinary programs. Also hosted series such as Good Food Live and Inside the Factory. Made contributions to cookery books and has had a prominent media presence.
Continue ReadingMatthew Macfadyen
English actor, famous for 'Succession'
Born
October 17th, 1974 51 years ago
Born in 1974, an English actor gained prominence through various television and film roles. His performance as Tom Wambsgans in the HBO series 'Succession' garnered critical acclaim. Prior to this role, performed in 'Pride & Prejudice' as Mr. Darcy and in 'Spooks' as Tom Quinn, further establishing a successful career in both television and film. Also worked in theater, showcasing versatility in different genres and formats.
Continue ReadingDon Coryell
American football coach innovated offense
Born
October 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
Coryell served as a head coach in the NFL and is recognized for developing the 'Air Coryell' offensive system. This system emphasized passing plays and revolutionized offensive strategies in professional football. Coryell coached the San Diego Chargers from 1978 to 1986 and the St. Louis Cardinals from 1973 to 1977. His coaching style enabled quarterbacks to excel and stimulated explosive offensive play.
Continue ReadingRené Dif
Danish musician and Aqua vocalist
Born
October 17th, 1967 58 years ago
Born in Denmark, a musician rose to prominence as the lead vocalist of the Eurodance group Aqua. The group gained international success with their hit single 'Barbie Girl' in 1997, which topped charts in multiple countries. Their debut album, 'Aquarium', sold millions of copies worldwide. The catchy tunes and distinctive style of Aqua made a significant impact on pop music in the late 1990s. After the group disbanded, pursued solo music projects and participated in various reality television shows in Denmark.
Continue ReadingVina Morales
Filipino actress and singer with notable music career
Born
October 17th, 1975 50 years ago
An actress and singer, gained recognition through leading roles in various television dramas and films. Achieved significant success in the music industry, releasing multiple albums and singles that became popular in the Philippines. Received acclaim for performances, contributing to a successful career spanning decades in both acting and music. Engaged in modeling and endorsements, further establishing a presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingSharon Leal
American actress in 'Dreamgirls'
Born
October 17th, 1972 53 years ago
An American actress and singer gained recognition for performances in film and television. Achieved notable acclaim for the role of Michelle in the film 'Dreamgirls'. Had a significant role in the television series 'Guiding Light'. Appeared in various other television series, showcasing versatility in both drama and comedy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 10th
Paul Monette
American author and AIDS activist
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1995 30 years ago — 50 years old
An American author and poet, significant contributions include writings that explore the experience of being gay and living with AIDS. Monette's memoir, 'Borrowed Time: An AIDS Memoir,' offers a personal perspective on the AIDS crisis and its impact on life and love. Through literature and activism, highlighted the struggles faced by those affected by the disease, advocating for awareness and compassion.
Continue ReadingAlbert J. Ruffo
American lawyer and Mayor of San Jose
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the Mayor of San Jose from 1971 to 1975. Before the mayoral term, engaged in legal practice as a lawyer. Contributed to local community efforts and governance during his tenure. Played a role in various city initiatives aimed at urban development and public services in San Jose. After his mayoral term, continued involvement in political and civic activities in the region until his passing in 2003.
Continue ReadingAnacleto Díaz
Filipino lawyer and chief justice
Born
1878 148 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1945 80 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent figure in the Philippine legal system, served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Played a crucial role in shaping legal practices in the Philippines. Contributed to the development of laws and judiciary during a significant period in Filipino history, particularly in the pre-war and post-war eras. Oversaw various landmark cases that influenced Philippine jurisprudence.
Continue ReadingAloysius Stepinac
Croatian Cardinal and Archbishop
Born
May 8th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1960 65 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Zagreb and a prominent figure in the Catholic Church during World War II. Opposed the Axis powers' influence in Croatia and spoke out against the persecution of Jews and other marginalized groups. After the war, faced a show trial by the Yugoslav communist government, resulting in a conviction viewed as politically motivated. Later, canonized by the Catholic Church for his service and martyrdom.
Continue ReadingEdgar de Evia
Photographer of Mexican-American heritage
Born
July 30th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 92 years old
Significant contributions to photography included capturing the artistic and cultural essence of Mexico. Helped pioneer the field of fashion photography, merging it with fine art. Worked with prominent publications and magazines throughout a career that spanned several decades, showcasing both the natural beauty of landscapes and the intricacies of human expressions through portraiture. Achievements included numerous exhibitions and accolades that recognized the artistic merit of visual storytelling through photography.
Continue ReadingAlex Haley
Author of 'Roots'
Born
August 11th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1992 33 years ago — 70 years old
An American author and journalist gained prominence with the novel 'Roots: The Saga of an American Family', published in 1976, which traces his ancestry back to Africa and explores the impact of slavery on American history. The book was adapted into a successful miniseries in 1977, which became a cultural phenomenon and is credited with raising awareness about African American history. Haley also wrote 'The Autobiography of Malcolm X', which illustrated the life and thoughts of the civil rights leader, and served in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. His works have influenced literature and discussions surrounding race in America.
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