Clare Francis
Sailor and author of 'Sailor' series
An English sailor and author, played a significant role in competitive sailing during the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in the prestigious Whitbread Round the World Race multiple times, becoming the first woman to complete the race in 1977-78. Authored several books, including both fiction and non-fiction, focusing on sailing and adventure. Worked as a motivational speaker and contributed to various sailing publications. Resided predominantly in the United Kingdom.
First woman to complete the Whitbread Race
Authored the book 'Sailor'
Contributed to sailing publications
Other People Born on April 17th
Richard Allen Epstein
American lawyer and academic author
Born
April 17th, 1943 82 years ago
Born in 1943, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and analysis. Focused on property rights, torts, and commercial law. Served as a law professor at the University of Chicago and New York University. Published extensively on law and economics, advocating for libertarian principles. Held various academic and professional roles throughout career, offering clout in debates on law reforms and policy.
Continue ReadingEdouard Wyss-Dunant
Swiss physician and mountaineer
Born
April 17th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1983 42 years ago — 86 years old
A Swiss physician and mountaineer, contributed significantly to mountaineering and alpine rescue. Achieved notable first ascents and participated in extensive research on high-altitude medicine. Established protocols for medical care in demanding environments, enhancing the safety of mountain expeditions. Actively involved in various organizations promoting mountain safety and environmental preservation, combining professional expertise with a passion for the outdoors.
Continue ReadingBilly Fury
English singer-songwriter and musician
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1983 43 years ago — 42 years old
An influential singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1950s. Achieved significant success in the UK music scene with rock and roll hits. First single, 'Maybe Tomorrow,' released in 1959, reached the UK charts. Released numerous albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with a distinctive style that combined elements of pop and rock. Continued to perform until health issues impacted career. Estimated to have sold over 1 million records throughout his career, cementing a lasting legacy in British music.
Continue ReadingGeorge Adamski
Ufologist and author of 'Flying Saucers'
Born
April 17th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1965 60 years ago — 74 years old
An influential figure in the UFO movement, wrote extensively about extraterrestrial encounters. Authored several books, including 'Flying Saucers Have Landed' in 1953, which detailed alleged contacts with aliens. Founded the California-based 'The Flying Saucers Research Institute' to explore claims of UFO sightings. Became a prominent speaker at UFO conferences and lectures across the United States.
Continue ReadingCarl Friedrich Philipp von Martius
Botanist and explorer of Brazil
Born
April 17th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1868 157 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent botanist and explorer, contributions focused on the flora of Brazil. Studied botany extensively, leading expeditions to collect plant specimens. Worked on the classification and documentation of various plant species. Developed significant works, including 'Flora Brasiliae.' Additionally, served as a naturalist and produced detailed accounts of Brazilian ecology and culture during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingSirimavo Bandaranaike
Prime Minister, world's first female PM
Born
April 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2000 25 years ago — 84 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Sri Lanka and became the world's first female head of government. Her tenure focused on social reform, economic development, and establishing non-alignment in foreign policy. Bandaranaike first took office in 1960 and served three terms, contributing significantly to the political landscape of Sri Lanka. Her government implemented policies aimed at promoting education and health care. During her leadership, she was involved in various international conferences, advocating for the rights of developing nations.
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