Bill Frenzel
American politician and lieutenant
Served as a United States Congressman from Minnesota from 1971 to 1991. Played a significant role in economic policy, particularly during the Reagan administration. Was a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, contributing to tax reform and budgetary issues. After leaving Congress, engaged in public policy consulting and served as a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution.
Served as a U.S. Congressman for Minnesota
Contributed to tax reform legislation
Member of the House Ways and Means Committee
Other People Born on July 31st
Primo Levi
Italian chemist and Holocaust author
Born
July 31st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1987 38 years ago — 67 years old
A chemist and writer, recognized for literary works exploring personal experiences during the Holocaust. Published the memoir 'Survival in Auschwitz,' detailing experiences in the concentration camp, and the book 'The Periodic Table,' which combines chemistry and memoir, reflecting on life through elements. Contributed to literature with essays and fiction, deeply influenced by the events of World War II.
Continue ReadingJosé Fernández
Cuban-American baseball pitcher
Born
July 31st, 1992 33 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2016 9 years ago — 24 years old
Played Major League Baseball for the Miami Marlins. Achieved significant success as a starting pitcher, winning the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2013. Earned selections to the MLB All-Star Game during his career. Born in Cuba, defected to the United States, and quickly made a name in baseball with strong performances on the mound. Tragically passed away in a boating accident in 2016 at a young age, leaving behind a promising career cut short.
Continue ReadingHilary Putnam
Philosopher and computer science innovator
Born
July 31st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
Contributions spanned philosophy, mathematics, and computer science. Challenged traditional views of mind and language. Developed influential ideas in functionalism and semantics. Engaged in discussions on the philosophy of mind and artificial intelligence. Published extensively, including works such as 'Reason, Truth and History' and 'Mind, Language and Reality'. Made significant contributions to the philosophy of mathematics and the philosophy of science. Led professional organizations and served in prominent academic roles.
Continue ReadingHans Freyer
German sociologist and philosopher
Born
July 31st, 1887 138 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1969 56 years ago — 81 years old
Engaged in the study of sociology and philosophy, contributing to the intellectual discourse in Germany. Focused on social theory and the relationship between society and the individual. Published works on the nature of culture and modernity, which were well-received in academic circles. Contributed to the development of a sociological framework that addressed contemporary issues. Had a significant influence on post-war German thought and education.
Continue ReadingGeorge Henry Thomas
Union General in the American Civil War
Born
July 31st, 1816 209 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1870 155 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent Union general during the American Civil War, played a crucial role in several significant battles. Graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1840 and initially served in the Mexican-American War. Commanded Union forces at the Battle of Chickamauga and the Battle of Nashville, where decisive victories were achieved against Confederate troops. Earned the nickname 'Rock of Chickamauga' for steadfastness during the Battle of Chickamauga. After the war, served in various military roles, including overseeing the Department of the Cumberland.
Continue ReadingLouis de Funès
French actor and screenwriter
Born
July 31st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1983 42 years ago — 68 years old
One of the leading figures in French cinema, recognized for a distinctive style of comedy and energetic performances. Starred in a variety of films, including the popular 'Gendarme' series and 'La Grande Vadrouille'. Contributed to the development of the comedy genre in France during the 20th century, becoming a cultural icon. Collected a substantial following for comedic portrayals that often featured exaggerated expressions and physical humor.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 17th
George Stephen Morrison
American admiral and naval officer
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 89 years old
Served in the United States Navy and attained the rank of admiral. Participated in World War II and the Vietnam War, commanding naval forces during significant operations. Oversaw naval operations during the Gulf of Tonkin incident in 1964, which escalated U.S. involvement in Vietnam. Later served as commander of the U.S. Naval Forces in the Pacific. Retired from the Navy in 1975 and continued to contribute to military and naval discussions until passing in 2008.
Continue ReadingFreddy Schmidt
American baseball player
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. His career spanned the 1930s and 1940s, during which he played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs. Schmidt contributed to multiple seasons in the major leagues, and his performance on the mound was noted for its effectiveness. He eventually transitioned to coaching roles after his playing career, further contributing to the sport.
Continue ReadingGladys Cooper
English actress and singer
Born
December 18th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1971 54 years ago — 82 years old
An English actress and singer achieved acclaim in both film and theater. Career began in the early 1900s on stage, transitioning to film in the 1910s. Notable stage works included performances in 'The Royal Family' and 'What Every Woman Knows'. In cinema, key roles were in 'The Letter', 'Mary of Scotland', and 'My Fair Lady'. Recognized for her remarkable versatility and strong presence, also performed extensively on radio and television later in her career.
Continue ReadingJack Worrall
Australian cricketer and footballer
Born
June 20th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1937 88 years ago — 77 years old
A versatile athlete who excelled in both cricket and Australian rules football. Played first-class cricket for Victoria and participated in the early years of the VFL. Transitioned from player to coach, applying knowledge gained on the field to mentor future generations. Achieved success in both sports, contributing to their development in Australia.
Continue ReadingArmand Desmet
Belgian Cyclist and World Champion
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old
This individual competed in professional cycling. Achieved notable success in the 1948 World Championships, securing the title in the road race. Participated in multiple professional races throughout a career primarily during the mid-20th century. Contributed to the sport's popularity in Belgium and was recognized for competitive spirit and achievements on international stages.
Continue ReadingRay Sadecki
Baseball player with St. Louis Cardinals
Born
December 26th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 73 years old
Sadecki was a professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1960 and played until 1975. Represented teams such as the St. Louis Cardinals, the San Francisco Giants, and the New York Mets during his career. Achieved success as a starting pitcher and contributed to his teams' efforts in various seasons.
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