Bill Downs
American journalist and WWII correspondent
Contributed significant coverage of World War II as a war correspondent for the CBS network. Reported from various battlefronts, providing firsthand accounts of major events such as the liberation of Paris and the Normandy invasion. Played a pivotal role in the development of radio journalism during wartime, showcasing the power of live reporting. Continued to work in broadcasting post-war, influencing the field of journalism for decades.
Covered the liberation of Paris for CBS
Reported live from the Normandy invasion
Other People Born on August 17th
Charles I of Austria
Emperor and last monarch of Austria-Hungary
Born
August 17th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1922 104 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1887, served as Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary from 1916 until 1918. His reign occurred during World War I, a tumultuous period that contributed to the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Following defeat in the war, faced political unrest and was forced to abdicate in 1918. Spent subsequent years in exile and made attempts to regain the throne in Hungary. Later, accepted into the Catholic Church and was canonized by the Catholic Church. Died in 1922 on the island of Madeira.
Continue ReadingPrincess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld
German Princess, mother of Queen Victoria
Born
August 17th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
1861 165 years ago — 75 years old
Born into the Saxe-Coburg family, this princess married Edward, Duke of Kent, the fourth son of King George III. The union produced one daughter, who later became Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. The princess served a pivotal role in the family circle, fostering connections between the German and British royal families. Her lineage had a lasting influence on European monarchies. She passed away in 1861.
Continue ReadingJulia Marlowe
English-American Actress of Shakespearean roles
Born
August 17th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1950 75 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1865, an English-American actress specialized in Shakespearean roles and became a leading figure in American theater. Marlowe gained fame for performances in productions such as 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Hamlet'. She had a noteworthy partnership with actor E.H. Sothern, and together they often starred in classic plays. Throughout her career, she was celebrated for her powerful interpretations of female roles and made significant contributions to the theatrical community, participating in numerous tours and productions across the United States. Her legacy continues to influence actors who portray Shakespearean characters.
Continue ReadingSerhiy Zakarlyuka
Ukrainian footballer and manager
Born
August 17th, 1976 49 years ago
Died
October 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 38 years old
Born in Ukraine in 1976, this individual had a career in professional football as both a player and a manager. As a midfielder, played predominantly for FC Dynamo Kyiv, contributing to the team's successes in domestic and European competitions. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, taking up managerial roles within Ukrainian football. His involvement in the sport extended beyond playing, also impacting team strategies and player development.
Continue ReadingJiang Zemin
Chinese politician and former president
Born
August 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2022 3 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1926, served as an engineer before entering politics. Held the position of General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party from 1989 to 2002 and was the President of the People's Republic of China from 1993 to 2003. Played a significant role in modernizing China's economy and integrating it into the global market during a period of considerable growth. His leadership was characterized by a focus on technological advancement and maintaining the Communist Party's grip on power amidst reforms. Oversaw the handover of Hong Kong from British to Chinese rule in 1997, which marked a significant moment in Chinese history.
Continue ReadingColin James
Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 17th, 1964 61 years ago
A prominent figure in Canadian music, this artist gained recognition for a blend of blues, rock, and folk influences. Debut album released in 1988, achieving significant chart success and earning multiple awards. Over three decades, released numerous albums, securing a strong fan base and critical acclaim. Collaborated with various artists and producers, contributing to the evolution of the Canadian music scene. The artist continues to perform and produce new music, maintaining a presence in the industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 3rd
Jessie Willcox Smith
Illustrator of children's books
Born
September 6th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1935 90 years ago — 71 years old
An American illustrator, recognized for work in children's literature and magazines during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Contributions included illustrations for well-known books such as 'Little Women' and 'A Child's Garden of Verses'. Collaborated with prominent authors and published illustrations in magazines like 'Ladies' Home Journal' and 'Scribner's'. Smith's distinctive style featured soft colors and emotional depth, appealing to both children and adults.
Continue ReadingRevaz Chkheidze
Georgian director and screenwriter
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
This individual served as a director and screenwriter in Georgia. Significant contributions include works in film and theater, with notable projects in the 20th century. Directed films that explored themes of Georgian life, culture, and identity. Helped shape the Georgian cinema landscape during a pivotal time in the country's history.
Continue ReadingAntipope Alexander V
Antipope during the Western Schism
Died
May 3rd, 1410 615 years ago — None years old
Served as antipope from 1409 until death in 1410. Elected during the Council of Pisa, which aimed to resolve the Western Schism and address issues of church leadership. His election was contested and led to a complex period of multiple claimants to the papacy. Although his tenure was brief, he was acknowledged by some Christian factions which sought to reunify the Church under one leader. His papacy contributed to the ongoing debates and conflicts over ecclesiastical authority in the era.
Continue ReadingAlex Kellner
American baseball player and pitcher
Born
August 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 71 years old
A professional baseball player, primarily served as a pitcher during the 1940s and 1950s. Played for the Philadelphia Athletics and the Kansas City Athletics in Major League Baseball. Participated in the league for parts of ten seasons, establishing a reputation as a reliable left-handed pitcher. Contributed to the team's efforts in the American League.
Continue ReadingAdolphe Adam
French composer of ballet music
Born
July 24th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1856 169 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent French composer, contributed significantly to the world of ballet and opera in the 19th century. Composed the well-known ballet Giselle, which premiered in 1841, showcasing the Romantic style of the era. Also wrote the score for the opera Le Postillon de Lonjumeau, which enjoyed considerable success. Worked as a music critic and published articles on various musical topics, enhancing the understanding of music during his time. Held a position at the Paris Conservatoire where he influenced upcoming musicians.
Continue ReadingHenry Garnet
English priest and author of 'A Treatise'
Born
1555 471 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1606 419 years ago — 51 years old
An English priest and theologian, contributed significantly to the Catholic Church during the late 16th century. Garnet served as a Jesuit and became the superior of the English Jesuits. He authored several religious treatises, with his most notable work being 'A Treatise of the Sacrament of Penance', which laid out principles of Catholic faith and confession. He was implicated in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, leading to his arrest. After a trial, he was executed in 1606, celebrated by Catholics as a martyr.
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