Cyd Charisse
Actress and dancer in classic musicals
An accomplished actress and dancer, gained recognition through performances in classic musicals during the 1950s. Collaborated with notable artists such as Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire in iconic films. Showcased exceptional dance talent in productions like "Singin' in the Rain" and "The Band Wagon," which highlighted her ability to blend ballet and jazz styles. Charisse's impressive career spanned several decades, earning acclaim for both film and stage contributions.
Starred in 'Singin' in the Rain'
Performed in 'The Band Wagon'
Other People Born on March 8th
Ignacy Łukasiewicz
Inventor of the Kerosene lamp
Born
March 8th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
1882 144 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1822, an inventor and businessman developed the kerosene lamp, which revolutionized lighting and energy use during the 19th century. Łukasiewicz's innovations laid the groundwork for the modern petroleum industry. He opened the first modern oil well in Bóbrka, Poland, and initiated the large-scale distillation of kerosene from crude oil, significantly impacting energy production at the time. His work contributed to the growth of the oil industry, leading to advancements in various applications of petroleum.
Continue ReadingDick Allen
Baseball player; 1972 American League MVP
Born
March 8th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 78 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as a first baseman and designated hitter. Had a significant career in Major League Baseball, playing for teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, and Atlanta Braves. Acclaimed for powerful hitting and unique style on and off the field. Achieved the American League MVP award in 1972 while playing for the White Sox, leading the league in multiple offensive categories. Inducted into various halls of fame and recognized for contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingMatt Nable
Rugby league player and actor
Born
March 8th, 1972 53 years ago
Played professional rugby league primarily for the Newcastle Knights and the Canberra Raiders, establishing a reputation in the sport during the 1990s. Transitioned to acting, gaining recognition for roles in the series 'Underbelly' and 'Blood and Water'. Nable also starred in films such as 'The Hunter' and 'The Dry'. His contributions in both rugby and film have led to a notable career in both fields.
Continue ReadingTijana Bošković
Serbian volleyball player, Olympic medalist
Born
March 8th, 1997 28 years ago
This athlete excelled in volleyball, representing Serbia in international competitions. Played a pivotal role in the national team's success at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, where the team secured a silver medal. Achieved multiple accolades at the European Championships, contributing to Serbia's dominance in women's volleyball. Recognized in club competitions, including successful stints in the Italian league.
Continue ReadingYakov Borisovich Zel'dovich
Physicist and astronomer, created cosmology
Born
March 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1987 38 years ago — 73 years old
Contributions to cosmology and astrophysics included theoretical models explaining black holes and the Big Bang. Played a significant role in the development of the theory of gravitational collapse. Worked on the design of nuclear weapons during the Soviet era. Authored over 300 scientific papers and contributed to the Soviet space program, including the development of rocket propulsion systems.
Continue ReadingPetra Kvitová
Czech tennis player, Wimbledon champion
Born
March 8th, 1990 35 years ago
A prominent figure in professional tennis, this individual surged to fame in the early 2010s. Two-time Wimbledon champion, achieved titles in 2011 and 2014. Competed for the Czech Republic in Fed Cup victories, contributing to team success in 2011, 2012, and 2014. Demonstrated exceptional skill on the court with a powerful left-handed playing style. Overcame significant injuries to return to top-level competition, showcasing resilience and determination throughout the career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 17th
Arnold S. Relman
Physician and medical journal editor
Born
June 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent physician and academic, focused on internal medicine and medical ethics. Served as the editor of The New England Journal of Medicine from 1977 to 1991, influencing medical publishing and practice. Contributed significantly to discussions about health care policy, medical ethics, and the commercialization of medicine. Authored numerous articles and books, emphasizing the importance of professional integrity in medicine and advocating for reform in the health care system.
Continue ReadingJulius Seljamaa
Estonian politician and journalist
Born
April 8th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1936 89 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1883, held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia. Played a significant role in Estonia's diplomatic efforts during the early 20th century. Contributed to the establishment of foreign relations for the newly independent state following World War I. Worked as a journalist, advocating for Estonia's interests on various platforms.
Continue ReadingRefik Koraltan
Turkish politician and Speaker of Parliament
Born
1889 137 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 ReadingKate Smith
American singer and actress known for 'God Bless America'
Born
May 1st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1986 39 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1907, this individual gained fame as a singer and actress, primarily during the mid-20th century. The rendition of 'God Bless America' became a defining hallmark of her career, especially during World War II. She hosted 'The Kate Smith Hour' on television, which further established her popularity. Additionally, this individual was one of the first women to host a national radio program, pioneering the way for future female entertainers in that medium. The unique vocal talents and charismatic presence attracted a large audience and contributed to the entertainment landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingJack Parsons
Chemist and Rocket Propulsion Pioneer
Born
October 2nd, 1914 111 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 ReadingJulien Félix
French military officer and aviator
Born
March 2nd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1914 111 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1869, a notable French military officer and aviator played significant roles in early aviation and military operations. Involved in aviation from its early days, contributed to the development of military aviation strategies. Participated in various missions, showcasing skills in piloting and aerial tactics, thus advancing military aviation.
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