C. P. Krishnan Nair
Businessman, founder of The Leela Hotels
Built a luxury hotel chain in India, transforming the hospitality industry. Founded The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts in 1987, establishing a reputation for excellence in service and design. Expanded the brand into several key cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Developed renowned properties that became landmarks in their respective locations. Contributed to the increase of tourism and hospitality standards in India.
Founded The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts
Expanded luxury hotel offerings in India
Other People Born on February 9th
Futabayama Sadaji
Japanese sumo wrestler, 35th Yokozuna
Born
February 9th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1968 57 years ago — 56 years old
A prominent sumo wrestler, achieved the highest rank of Yokozuna during a notable career. Active from the 1930s to the 1950s, won a total of 12 top division championships. Competed for the Futagoyama stable and became a significant figure in the sport.
Continue ReadingHeather Angel
Actress in classic films and television
Born
February 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1986 39 years ago — 77 years old
Born in England and later becoming a naturalized American, this actress had a career spanning several decades. Initially gaining prominence in the 1930s, she appeared in films such as 'The Cat and the Canary' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Transitioning to television, she played roles in series including 'The Lone Ranger' and 'The Man Behind the Badge'. Her performances showcased a range of characters, contributing to both film and television during her career.
Continue ReadingHoward Taylor Ricketts
Pathologist known for Rickettsial diseases
Born
February 9th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1910 115 years ago — 39 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of Rickettsial diseases. Conducted research that identified the causative agents of typhus and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Developed key methods for diagnosing these diseases, which improved treatment protocols. His research led to advancements in public health and epidemiology at a time when these diseases posed major threats to populations.
Continue ReadingHara Takashi
Japanese Prime Minister and politician
Born
February 9th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1921 104 years ago — 65 years old
Held the position of the 10th Prime Minister of Japan from 1918 until assassination in 1921. Advocated for political reform and modernization of Japan's governance. Played a significant role in the expansion of Japan's political party system, promoting the greater involvement of the populace in politics. His policies aimed to address social issues and responded to the growing pressure for democratic reforms within the country.
Continue ReadingJoseph Stiglitz
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 9th, 1943 82 years ago
An American economist and academic, significant contributions were made to the analysis of markets with asymmetric information. Stiglitz served as a professor at Columbia University and co-founded the Initiative for Policy Dialogue. As chief economist at the World Bank, roles included advising on economic policies for developing countries. Stiglitz received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2001 for work on economic theory in the presence of information asymmetries.
Continue ReadingNatsume Sōseki
Japanese author and poet
Born
February 9th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1916 109 years ago — 49 years old
Born in 1867, an influential Japanese author and poet. Literature primarily focused on the complexities of the human experience within the context of Japanese society. Notable works include the novels 'I Am a Cat' and 'Kokoro', both reflecting deep philosophical insights and character studies. Contributed significantly to the modernization of Japanese literature during the Meiji era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
René Caillié
Explorer of Africa, author of travelogue
Born
1799 226 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1838 187 years ago — 39 years old
Traveled across Africa, reaching Timbuktu in 1827. First European to return from Timbuktu alive, laying the groundwork for future explorers. Published a travelogue detailing the journey, increasing interest in African exploration.
Continue ReadingAl-Qa'im bi-Amr Allah
Fatimid Caliph during the 10th century
Died
May 17th, 946 1079 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the Fatimid Caliphate in 934 and ruled until death in 946. Oversaw the period of consolidation in the empire and maintained control over regions including North Africa and parts of the Middle East. His rule marked efforts to establish Ismaili Shi'ism within the territories governed by the Fatimids, promoting religious activities and political stability.
Continue ReadingCatherine I of Russia
Empress of Russia and wife of Peter I
Born
April 15th, 1684 341 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1727 298 years ago — 43 years old
Ascended to the throne as Empress of Russia following the death of Peter the Great in 1725. Catherine I was originally a peasant from Livonia, later marrying Peter in 1707. During her reign, she focused on continuing Peter's policies and strengthening the Russian state. Her rule lasted for just over a year, ending with her death in 1727. Catherine was the first woman to hold the title of Empress of Russia and laid the foundation for future female leadership in Russia.
Continue ReadingSamuel Clarke
English minister and philosopher
Born
October 11th, 1675 350 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1729 296 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent English minister and philosopher, contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy during the early 18th century. Engaged in debates on metaphysics and ethics, favoring rationalism and the use of logic in religious discourse. Published influential works such as 'A Discourse Concerning the Being and Attributes of God' which discussed the nature of divinity. Clarke also played a role in the development of early modern philosophy, particularly in the areas of free will and moral responsibility.
Continue ReadingLi Maozhen
Chinese warlord and king
Died
May 17th, 924 1101 years ago — None years old
Li Maozhen served as a powerful warlord and king during the late Tang dynasty. He established control over the region of Shuzhou in what is now Sichuan province. His reign was marked by significant military and political maneuvers aimed at maintaining autonomy amid the fragmented power structure of the dynasty. Li claimed the title of king and held sway over the local populace through both military force and political alliances. His authority extended until his death in 924, a period characterized by the disintegration of centralized power in China.
Continue ReadingEmpress Dowager Hu of Northern Wei
Empress Dowager of Northern Wei dynasty
Died
May 17th, 528 1497 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the Empress Dowager during the Northern Wei dynasty in China. Became regent after the death of her husband, Emperor Xiaowen. Played a significant role in promoting Buddhism within the court and influencing political decisions. Her reign was marked by the consolidation of power and the establishment of the Northern Wei as a major dynasty in northern China.
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