Craig L. Thomas
American politician and captain
Served as a U.S. Senator from Wyoming from 1995 until 2007. Prior to the Senate, held the position of U.S. Representative from 1989 to 1995. Acquired a commission as a captain in the U.S. Navy. Worked on various committees during tenure, including the Armed Services and Energy and Natural Resources committees.
Served as U.S. Senator from Wyoming
Served as U.S. Representative for Wyoming
Other People Born on February 17th
Alan Bates
English actor in film and theater
Born
February 17th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2003 21 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1934, an English actor gained recognition for performances on stage and in film. Became associated with the Royal Shakespeare Company and starred in various notable productions. Achieved acclaim for the role in 'The Birthday Party' and performed in films such as 'Women in Love' and 'The Go-Between'. Received the Laurence Olivier Award for his work in theater, highlighting a significant contribution to the performing arts. In 1990, appeared in the television adaptation of 'The Old Man and the Sea', further demonstrating versatility across mediums.
Continue ReadingRuth Rendell
English crime writer and novelist
Born
February 17th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
An English author produced a substantial body of work in the crime and mystery genres. Noteworthy for the Inspector Wexford series, numerous standalone novels explored psychological and social themes. Achieved critical acclaim and commercial success for writing, winning several awards, including the Crime Writers' Association's Cartier Diamond Dagger and multiple Edgar Awards. Also recognized for contributions to literature and adapted works for television and film, enhancing the reach of the narratives beyond the page.
Continue ReadingJim Brown
American football player and actor
Born
February 17th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2023 2 years ago — 87 years old
An American football player and actor, celebrated as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Played for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965, revolutionizing the position with his powerful running style and agility. Achieved three MVP awards and won the NFL Championship in 1964. Transitioned to acting after retirement, featuring in films such as 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Any Given Sunday'.
Continue ReadingPontus Segerström
Swedish footballer, played for Djurgårdens IF
Born
February 17th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 33 years old
A professional footballer, born in Sweden, played primarily as a defender. Started the career at Djurgårdens IF and later moved to several clubs, including a stint in the United States with the Colorado Rapids. Contributed to the domestic league and made appearances in international tournaments during the career.
Continue ReadingLeevi Madetoja
Finnish composer known for symphonies
Born
February 17th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1947 78 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1887, a significant composer and music critic emerged from Finland. Studied at the Helsinki Music Institute and later in Germany. Contributed to the Finnish music scene during the early 20th century. Composed symphonic poems, operas, and choral works, blending Nordic folk music with classical forms. Notable compositions include the opera 'The Ostrobothnians' and several symphonies. Worked as a music critic and held various positions in Finnish music organizations. Died in 1947.
Continue ReadingChaim Potok
Rabbi and author, 'The Chosen'
Born
February 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2002 23 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1929, a prominent American rabbi and author contributed significantly to Jewish literature. The works often explored themes of conflict between tradition and modernity. The novel 'The Chosen' focused on the friendship between two Jewish boys from different backgrounds, addressing broader issues of identity and faith. His writings frequently featured characters grappling with their religious beliefs and the cultural expectations of their communities. In addition to fiction, Potok also wrote essays and books on Jewish philosophy and identity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 4th
George Griffith
British writer of science fiction
Born
August 20th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1906 119 years ago — 48 years old
A British writer, prominent in science fiction, contributed to the genre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Griffith's stories often explored themes of technology and society, influencing later works in the realm of speculative fiction. He penned several novels, short stories, and essays, blending adventure with futuristic ideas. One of the most notable works is 'A Honeymoon in Space', which featured interplanetary travel and was praised for its imaginative narrative.
Continue ReadingReinhard Heydrich
German SS officer and key Nazi official
Born
March 7th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1942 83 years ago — 38 years old
Served as a high-ranking official in Nazi Germany, instrumental in the establishment of the Gestapo. Played a significant role in orchestrating the Holocaust by overseeing the implementation of the Final Solution. Coordinated the Wannsee Conference in 1942, which formalized plans for the genocide of the Jewish population. Addressed key logistical and administrative aspects of Nazi occupation policies in Europe.
Continue ReadingCarl Stotz
Founder of Little League Baseball
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1992 33 years ago — 82 years old
An American businessman established a youth baseball organization in 1939 to provide children with an opportunity to play organized baseball. The organization grew rapidly, expanding into many countries and becoming a prominent global institution in youth sports. The first Little League World Series was held in 1947, solidifying the league's significance in American culture. Continued involvement in Little League for several decades resulted in the growth of the program and increased participation of young athletes around the world.
Continue ReadingMathilde Verne
Pianist and educator of classical music
Born
May 25th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1936 89 years ago — 71 years old
Born in England in 1865, pursued a career as a pianist and educator. Studied at the Royal Academy of Music and became a prominent figure in the classical music community. Contributed to music education through various teaching positions and published works. Achieved recognition for performances and compositions, particularly for solo piano repertoire. Engaged in promoting classical music and training future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingFrancis Caracciolo
Catholic priest and founder of a religious order
Born
October 13th, 1563 462 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1608 417 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1563, a Catholic priest became recognized for founding the Congregation of the Clerics Regular of the Divine Providence. The order focused on the pastoral care of the faithful and the spiritual education of the clergy. A commitment to serving the poor and vulnerable characterized his ministry. The priest's dedication to spiritual renewal and community service contributed to the growth of his order across Italy and beyond.
Continue ReadingTommy Ladnier
Trumpet player and jazz musician
Born
May 28th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1939 86 years ago — 39 years old
An influential trumpet player and jazz musician, celebrated for contributions to the New Orleans jazz scene during the 1920s. Played with notable ensembles including the Crescent City Jazz Band and led several of his own bands. His distinctive style and improvisational skills left a lasting mark on jazz music. Recorded numerous tracks that exemplified the New Orleans jazz sound, collaborating with other prominent musicians of the era.
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