Claude Louis Hector de Villars

French General, Minister of Defence

Claude Louis Hector de Villars - French General, Minister of Defence
Born

May 8th, 1653
372 years ago

Died

June 17th, 1734
291 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

France

Links & References

Born in 1653, a prominent French general and politician served as the Minister of Defence. Achieved significant military success during the War of the Spanish Succession, particularly at the Battle of Denain in 1712, where his leadership played a critical role in securing victory for France. Held esteemed positions, including governor of several territories and managing military strategies that impacted national security. Recognized for contributions to military reforms and strengthening the French army.

Led French forces to victory at the Battle of Denain

Served as the Minister of Defence for France

Implemented military reforms in the French army

Other People Born on May 8th

Edward Tompkins

American lawyer and politician
Born
May 8th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
1872 153 years ago — 57 years old

Practiced law in New York and served in the state assembly. Played a significant role in advancing state legislation. Contributed to local government as a prominent figure within the community. Engaged in various legal matters throughout his career, showcasing expertise in law and governance.

Continue Reading

Peter Benchley

American author of Jaws
Born
May 8th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2006 19 years ago — 65 years old

An American author and screenwriter, notable for writing the thriller novel 'Jaws' published in 1974. The book depicts the story of a monstrous great white shark that terrorizes a beach town. The novel's immense popularity catapulted it to the top of bestseller lists and led to a major film adaptation directed by Steven Spielberg in 1975, which became a cultural sensation and established the summer blockbuster phenomenon. Benchley also wrote several other novels, including 'The Deep' and 'Beast', and served as a screenwriter for various movies. Beyond literature, Benchley became an advocate for ocean conservation.

Continue Reading

Norman Lamont

Chancellor of the Exchequer, banker
Born
May 8th, 1942 83 years ago

Born in 1942, this individual served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1990 to 1993 during a period marked by economic challenges in the United Kingdom. After studying at Cambridge University, held various positions within the banking sector before entering politics. Elected as a Member of Parliament in 1972, this person held several ministerial roles, including Chief Secretary to the Treasury. As Chancellor, enacted significant economic policies and faced the challenges of a recession, ultimately resigning following the UK's exit from the European Exchange Rate Mechanism.

Continue Reading

George Bruce Malleson

Colonel and author of Indian history
Born
May 8th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1825, one served as a colonel in the British Indian Army and became an influential military historian and author. One's writings contributed to the understanding of the British colonial experience in India. Major works include 'The History of the French in India' and 'The Decisive Battles of India'. Malleson's accounts often focused on the military strategies and campaigns during the British Raj, aiming to document the intricacies of colonial military conflicts.

Continue Reading

James H. Kindelberger

Businessman and aviation pioneer
Born
May 8th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1962 63 years ago — 67 years old

An American businessman played a significant role in the aviation industry. He served as president of the North American Aviation company, contributing to military and civilian aviation projects. Under leadership, the company developed the T-28 Trojan and the F-86 Sabre jet. The F-86 became a crucial aircraft during the Korean War, proving effective against enemy fighters. His efforts helped North American Aviation become a major player in the aerospace sector.

Continue Reading

David Keith

Actor in 'An Officer and a Gentleman'
Born
May 8th, 1954 71 years ago

Born in 1954, this American actor and director began his career in the entertainment industry in the late 1970s. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'An Officer and a Gentleman' and 'The Great Santini'. Also appeared in notable television series including '24' and 'Sons of Anarchy'. In addition to acting, directed multiple film and television projects, showcasing versatility in the industry.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 17th

Gloria Vanderbilt

Fashion designer and actress
Born
February 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2019 6 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent fashion designer, socialite, and actress, contributions spanned multiple fields. In 1976, launched a successful line of jeans that became a cultural phenomenon. Created an iconic slip-on jeans style that represented luxury and comfort. Additionally, starred in the film 'The Last of Mrs. Lincoln' and appeared on television series such as 'The Love Boat'. Authored several books, including novels and memoirs, providing insight into personal experiences and life as a socialite.

Continue Reading

Jack Parsons

Chemist and Rocket Propulsion Pioneer
Born
October 2nd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1952 73 years ago — 37 years old

An American chemist and engineer, this individual contributed significantly to the early development of rocket propulsion technology. Involved with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the California Institute of Technology, he played a crucial role in the advancement of solid-fuel rockets. Additionally, he was associated with the Thelema spiritual philosophy, influenced by Aleister Crowley, and engaged in various occult practices. His work with the Aerojet Engineering Corporation furthered the use of chemical propellants in rocketry. Tragedy struck in 1952 when an explosion occurred at his home laboratory, resulting in his death. Despite a life marked by controversy and challenges, his legacy endures in the field of aerospace engineering.

Continue Reading

Dirk V

Count of Holland
Born
1052 973 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1091 934 years ago — 39 years old

Ruled as Count of Holland from approximately 1039 until death in 1091. Strengthened the county's position in the region through strategic marriages and alliances. Played a significant role in the local politics of the region, maintaining authority over the territory. His tenure was marked by efforts to enhance the influence of Holland among neighboring counties.

Continue Reading

Đorđe Bogić

Protopresbyter of Serbian Orthodox Church
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1941 84 years ago — 30 years old

Served as a protopresbyter in the Serbian Orthodox Church during a tumultuous period in the region's history. Actively engaged in pastoral work and community leadership. Became a victim of the Genocide of Serbs during World War II, reflecting the persecution faced by many in the clergy and community at that time.

Continue Reading

Refik Koraltan

Turkish politician and Speaker of Parliament
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1974 51 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 8th Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. Played a significant role in Turkish politics during the mid-20th century. Engaged in legal practice prior to entering politics, contributing to legislative processes and parliamentary decisions. Took part in various political movements and discussions surrounding Turkey's legislative framework. His tenure as Speaker encompassed critical societal changes and developments in Turkey's political landscape.

Continue Reading

Jeff Chandler

American actor in film and television
Born
December 15th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1961 64 years ago — 42 years old

Active primarily in the 1940s and 1950s, this individual gained recognition as a prominent actor in Hollywood. Featured in several films that showcased his range, appeared in Westerns and dramatic roles. Significant works include 'Broken Arrow' and 'The Great Sioux Massacre.'

Continue Reading