Curtis Harrington
American director and screenwriter
This individual directed and wrote several influential films, often associated with the horror genre. Contributions to the film industry included directing 'Night Tide' and 'What's the Matter with Helen?' A unique style combined elements of fantasy and surrealism, establishing a distinctive voice in cinema. The individual also worked in television, directing episodes of shows such as 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Girl from U.N.C.L.E.'. Lifelong interests in filmmaking began in childhood, leading to a career that spanned several decades.
Directed 'Night Tide'
Wrote and directed 'What's the Matter with Helen?'
Directed episodes of 'The Twilight Zone'
Other People Born on September 17th
William Murray McPherson
Australian politician, 31st Premier of Victoria
Born
September 17th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1932 94 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 31st Premier of Victoria from 1924 to 1927. Represented the Labor Party and contributed to various legislative reforms during his tenure. Held the position of Minister for Education prior to becoming Premier, implementing significant changes in education policies. Worked towards improving worker rights and social welfare initiatives.
Continue ReadingRube Foster
Baseball manager and player; founder of Negro Leagues
Born
September 17th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1930 95 years ago — 51 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as a pitcher and later transitioned into management. Founded the Negro National League in 1920, which offered opportunities to African American players during the segregation era in baseball. Managed the Chicago American Giants, securing multiple pennants and fostering talent within the league. Foster's organizational skills helped establish a structure that uplifted black baseball in America.
Continue ReadingPeriyar E. V. Ramasamy
Indian social activist and politician
Born
September 17th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 94 years old
A businessman and social reformer, significantly contributed to societal reforms and championed the rights of marginalized communities in India. Advocated for rationalism, self-respect, and the dismantling of the caste system. Founded the Self-Respect Movement to empower the oppressed and promote equality. Involved in politics, established the Dravidar Kazhagam party, which focused on promoting Dravidian identity and welfare. Focused on women's rights and education, working to improve the status of women in society.
Continue ReadingLena Frances Edwards
Physician and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient
Born
September 17th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 86 years old
A pioneering physician, contributed significantly to the field of medicine. Advocated for health care access and public health improvement within the African American community. Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for outstanding service in improving the health of underserved populations. Focused on addressing health disparities and promoting preventive care. In addition to clinical work, engaged in teaching and mentoring medical professionals to enhance health care delivery.
Continue ReadingFrancis Chichester
English pilot and pioneering solo sailor
Born
September 17th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1972 53 years ago — 70 years old
Aviation and sailing achievements include solo flights across the Atlantic and a historic solo circumnavigation of the globe. Completed the first solo flight from England to Australia, demonstrating remarkable skill and determination. His journey around the world was accomplished in a single-engine aircraft, showcasing both navigational prowess and endurance. The journey inspired many in the fields of aviation and maritime exploration.
Continue ReadingVera Yevstafievna Popova
Russian chemist and researcher
Born
September 17th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
1896 130 years ago — 29 years old
Born in 1867, a prominent Russian chemist contributed extensively to the field of chemistry, focusing particularly on organic synthesis and chemical compounds. Popova conducted research that advanced the understanding of various chemical reactions. The work produced significant findings that laid foundations for later developments in organic chemistry. Throughout her career, she published several papers in scientific journals and participated in academic conferences to share her research with peers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 6th
Farley Mowat
Canadian environmentalist and author
Born
May 12th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 12 years ago — 92 years old
This Canadian author and environmentalist wrote extensively about nature and conservation. Many works highlighted the relationship between humans and the environment, with early publications reflecting a deep concern for wildlife preservation. The book 'Never Cry Wolf' presented an influential narrative on the life of wolves and their ecosystem. Mowat's writing style combined humor and heartfelt observations, which resonated with a wide audience. He traveled extensively, often immersing in the habitats he documented. His advocacy for the environment and critiquing of government policy drew national and international attention.
Continue ReadingMaria Lassnig
Austrian painter and academic
Born
September 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 12 years ago — 94 years old
Austrian painter specialized in body awareness and self-portraiture. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna and later became a professor at the University of applied Arts in Vienna. Developed a unique style, focusing on the representation of the body through emotional and psychological lenses. Spent years in Paris and New York, where engagement with contemporary art developed significantly. Won the distinguished Grand Austrian State Prize for Fine Arts in 2011, cementing a significant academic career and establishing a legacy in the field of modern painting.
Continue ReadingWil Albeda
Dutch economist and Minister of Social Affairs
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 12 years ago — 89 years old
An economist and politician, served as the Dutch Minister of Social Affairs from 1973 to 1977. During the tenure, implemented several social policy reforms and was involved in labor market policies. Contributed to the transition of social welfare approaches, enhancing social security systems. Also engaged in academic pursuits, focusing on economic policy and its social implications.
Continue ReadingReg Grundy
Australian television producer and executive
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2016 10 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent Australian television producer, Grundy established a successful career in the media industry. Grundy founded Grundy Television in 1957, which produced numerous television shows and formats. The company created popular series such as 'Wheel of Fortune', 'The Price is Right', and 'Survivor Australia'. Grundy's work included producing adaptations of overseas television formats for the Australian market. He was pivotal in the development of reality television in Australia. In 2006, Disney acquired his production company, marking a significant milestone in his career. Grundy's contributions to television were recognized through multiple industry awards.
Continue ReadingJim Wright
American politician and Speaker of the House
Born
December 22nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2015 11 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a soldier during World War II. Held the position of 56th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1987 to 1989. Practiced law after returning from military service and became involved in politics, representing Texas's 12th congressional district. Advocated for various legislative efforts during tenure as Speaker and played a significant role in the Democratic Party throughout career.
Continue ReadingNovera Ahmed
Bangladeshi sculptor recognized for art.
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2015 11 years ago — 85 years old
An influential sculptor from Bangladesh, contributions spanned over several decades. Specialized in the use of traditional materials shaped into contemporary forms. Exhibited works in national and international galleries, gaining recognition for the fusion of modern and classical techniques. Focused on themes relevant to Bangladesh's culture and heritage, often utilizing local motifs in sculpture. Contributed to the establishment and promotion of the art scene in Bangladesh through mentorship and public engagement.
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