Bob Mathias
Decathlete, actor, and politician
Achieved fame as a decathlete, winning two Olympic gold medals at the 1948 and 1952 Games. Transitioned to acting with a prominent role in the film "The Glenn Miller Story" and made several television appearances. Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing California's 18th district. In addition to sports and politics, contributed to youth education and recreational programs after retirement.
Won Olympic gold medals in decathlon in 1948 and 1952
Appeared in the film 'The Glenn Miller Story'
Served in the U.S. House of Representatives
Other People Born on November 17th
Eugene Wigner
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 17th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1995 30 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Hungary, contributed extensively to nuclear physics and quantum mechanics. Wigner developed the theory of symmetry operations in quantum mechanics and worked on the Manhattan Project during World War II. Later, he played a significant role in the development of nuclear reactors and conducted extensive research on the behavior of materials under radiation. Wigner received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1963 for contributions to the understanding of the atomic nucleus, particularly concerning nuclear symmetry and the role of mathematical structures in quantum mechanics.
Continue ReadingMatthew Spring
Footballer with successful club career
Born
November 17th, 1979 46 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Career included spells at clubs like Watford, Luton Town, and Brighton & Hove Albion. Contributed to Luton Town's promotion to the Championship during the 2004-2005 season. Also had notable performances in league and cup competitions.
Continue ReadingJaanus Tamkivi
Estonian politician and leader.
Born
November 17th, 1959 66 years ago
Born in 1959, this individual became an influential figure in Estonian politics. In the early 1990s, played a significant role in the restoration of Estonia's independence from the Soviet Union. Served as a member of the Estonian Parliament and held various governmental positions, contributing to the establishment of key policies. This individual was also involved in promoting European integration and worked on developing Estonia's digital society. Engaged in multiple international initiatives representing Estonia.
Continue ReadingMike Garcia
American baseball player and All-Star pitcher
Born
November 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 63 years old
A Major League Baseball pitcher played primarily for the Cleveland Indians. Career spanned from 1948 to 1961. Achieved an impressive win-loss record and distinguished himself as a top performer on the mound. Played in multiple All-Star Games and contributed significantly to the team's success during his tenure. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and mentoring roles within the sport.
Continue ReadingSeth Lugo
Baseball player, New York Mets pitcher
Born
November 17th, 1989 36 years ago
An American baseball player primarily served as a pitcher for the New York Mets in Major League Baseball. Lugo began his professional career after being drafted in 2011 and made his MLB debut in 2016. Throughout his time with the Mets, he showcased versatility by functioning as both a starter and a reliever. Lugo achieved significant success with a notable season in 2019 when he posted a career-best earned run average, contributing to the team's pitching depth. In 2020, he played a key role in the team’s bullpen during a challenging season impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Continue ReadingCharles Mackerras
Conductor and oboe player
Born
November 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
An esteemed oboe player and conductor, contributed significantly to classical music through conducting orchestras and leading opera companies. Had a longstanding association with the Australian Opera and was prominent in international conducting. Received numerous accolades including a Grammy Award and was highly regarded for interpretations of works by composers such as Mozart and Strauss.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 2nd
Henri Rousseau
French painter; The Dream
Born
May 21st, 1844 181 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1910 115 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1844, this painter was a self-taught artist who developed a distinctive style characterized by bold colors and imaginative subjects. Originally working as a customs officer, painting became a significant pursuit during his free time. The artist's works often depicted lush jungles and fantastical scenes, despite having never traveled to the tropics. His paintings received minimal recognition during his lifetime, but posthumously gained significant acclaim and a prominent place in the art world. Notable works include 'The Dream' and 'The Sleeping Gypsy'.
Continue ReadingClaire Wineland
Activist and author inspired by cystic fibrosis
Born
April 10th, 1997 28 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2018 7 years ago — 21 years old
An activist and author advocated for individuals with cystic fibrosis. Founded a non-profit organization named Claire's Place Foundation, which provides support for families affected by the disease. Authored a book detailing personal experiences with chronic illness titled 'Every Breath I Take: My Story.' Gained recognition through motivational speaking and social media presence, sharing insights about living with a terminal illness. Served as an inspiration to many through candid discussions on health, hope, and the value of life.
Continue ReadingNorman Gordon
South African cricketer, Test player
Born
August 6th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 103 years old
A cricketer played for the South African national team from 1938 to 1955. His career included participation in the inaugural Test series against England post-World War II. Notable for his role as a fast bowler, achieved remarkable success in domestic cricket prior to international appearances. Contributed significantly to the game during a challenging era in South African sports history.
Continue ReadingThomas Telford
Scottish engineer, designed Menai Bridge
Born
August 9th, 1757 268 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1834 191 years ago — 77 years old
An engineer and architect, specialized in civil engineering. Worked on numerous infrastructure projects in the early 19th century. Designed the Menai Suspension Bridge, which connected Anglesey to mainland Wales and remains an engineering marvel. Contributed to the development of roads, canals, and railways across Britain. Served as the surveyor of public works for the county of Herefordshire, impacting transportation in the region.
Continue ReadingDick Reynolds
Australian footballer and coach
Born
June 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2002 23 years ago — 87 years old
Played Australian rules football primarily for Essendon Football Club from 1934 to 1951. Served as the club's captain and later became a coach, leading the team to significant success. Accumulated a total of 317 games, earning recognition as a two-time Brownlow Medal winner. Coached Essendon from 1966 to 1970, contributing to the strategies and development of players in the league.
Continue ReadingAllen Drury
Journalist and author of 'Advise and Consent'
Born
September 2nd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1998 27 years ago — 80 years old
A significant figure in American literature, this individual gained prominence as a journalist and novelist. The work 'Advise and Consent', published in 1959, achieved critical acclaim and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1960. This novel focused on political intrigue and the machinations of Washington, D.C., portraying the struggles within the U.S. Senate. Beyond fiction, contributions included reporting for various newspapers and influential commentary on significant political issues of the time. The narrative style reflected a deep understanding of political dynamics and human behavior within government.
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