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
Evel Knievel
Motorcycle stuntman and daredevil
Born
October 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old
Evel Knievel was an American motorcycle rider and stuntman recognized for performing thrilling stunts and jumps. Gaining fame in the 1960s and 1970s, achieved widespread popularity with the televised jump over 13 buses at Wembley Stadium in 1975. Known for his charismatic persona, Knievel's stunts included jumping over the Snake River Canyon in 1974, which garnered significant media attention. Injuries from various jumps shaped his career but did not deter his pursuit of adventure.
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 ReadingDoris Humphrey
Dancer and choreographer of modern dance
Born
October 17th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1958 67 years ago — 63 years old
A leading figure in modern dance, created significant works that shaped the genre. Developed the technique of fall and recovery, emphasizing the use of gravity in movement. Co-founded the Humphrey-Weidman Company and was a pivotal influence in the establishment of modern dance as an art form. Served as a teacher and mentor to many dancers, contributing to the development of future generations in the field.
Continue ReadingMartin Heinrich
American politician and senator
Born
October 17th, 1971 54 years ago
Born in 1971, this individual served as a U.S. senator from New Mexico, representing the Democratic Party. Before the Senate, held the role of U.S. representative for New Mexico's 1st congressional district. Focused on various issues including energy, conservation, and military affairs during the tenure. Contributed to efforts on renewable energy policies and environmental protections, and supported legislation impacting veterans and small businesses.
Continue ReadingWood Harris
American actor with notable roles
Born
October 17th, 1969 56 years ago
An actor recognized for performances in film and television. Gained prominence for the portrayal of Avon Barksdale in the television series The Wire. Featured in the film Paid in Full, earning acclaim for a compelling depiction of a drug dealer. Later starred in the series The Breaks, which highlighted the hip-hop industry. Also appeared in films such as Remember the Titans, playing a significant role in a high school football team based on real events.
Continue ReadingDerrick Plourde
American drummer for Lagwagon
Born
October 17th, 1971 54 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 34 years old
A drummer noted for association with the punk rock band Lagwagon. Contributed to several albums, showcasing a fast-paced drumming style that defined the band's sound. Part of the band during its rise in the 1990s punk scene, supporting albums that garnered significant attention and acclaim. Also involved in other musical projects, contributing to the punk genre's evolution during that era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 10th
Buddy Tate
American saxophonist and clarinet player
Born
1913 113 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2001 24 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent figure in jazz, Tate played the tenor saxophone and clarinet. He gained significant recognition during his career, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s. Tate was a member of the legendary Count Basie Orchestra during the late 1930s. He later led his own bands and recorded numerous albums. In addition to performing, Tate participated in various big bands and smaller ensembles, contributing to the development of jazz music.
Continue ReadingMike Ilitch
Businessman and Detroit sports owner
Born
July 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2017 8 years ago — 87 years old
Founded Little Caesars Pizza, which became a major national chain. Owned the Detroit Tigers, winning the 1984 World Series. Also owned the Detroit Red Wings, securing four Stanley Cup championships in 1997, 1998, 2002, and 2008. Active in various community initiatives and supported numerous charitable organizations.
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 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 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 ReadingKarl Josef Becker
German cardinal and theologian
Born
April 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church and contributed extensively to theological discussions and academia. Played a significant role in the Second Vatican Council, helping shape modern Catholic doctrine. Worked in various capacities within the church, including as a professor of theology, influencing generations of theologians and clerics. Authored numerous texts on theology and philosophy, fostering dialogue on faith and reason.
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