Dana Reeve

Actress and activist for disability rights

Dana Reeve - Activists & Humanitarians born March 17th, 1961
Born
Died

2006
20 years ago — 45 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

An actress and singer, engaged in advocacy for disability rights after the illness of a spouse. Achieved recognition for work in theater and television, particularly in the role of "Superman" alongside Christopher Reeve. Contributed significantly to various charitable organizations focused on spinal cord injury research. Appointed as chair of the Christopher Reeve Foundation, promoting awareness and funding for research efforts.

Performed in Broadway productions such as 'The Pajama Game'

Advocated for disability rights and health issues

Other People Born on March 17th

Nat King Cole

American singer and pianist known for 'Unforgettable'
Born
March 17th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1965 61 years ago — 45 years old

A celebrated American singer and pianist made significant contributions to the music industry, particularly in jazz and pop genres. Achieved fame as the host of 'The Nat King Cole Show', one of the first television shows to feature an African American host. Also known for a smooth vocal style and a sophisticated approach to music, popularized several classics including 'Mona Lisa' and 'Unforgettable'. Throughout the career, collaborated with numerous artists and musicians, blending different styles into performances that reached a wide audience.

Continue Reading

Walter Rudolf Hess

Physiologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 17th, 1881 145 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1973 52 years ago — 92 years old

A Swiss physiologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of the brain and its functions. Conducted pioneering research on the hypothalamus, elucidating its role in regulating autonomic functions and behavior. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1949 for discoveries regarding the functional organization of the interbrain. Published numerous scientific papers and held prestigious academic positions throughout a distinguished career.

Continue Reading

Michael Hayden

General and CIA Director
Born
March 17th, 1945 81 years ago

A retired four-star general in the United States Air Force, served as the 20th Director of the Central Intelligence Agency from 2006 to 2009. Played a crucial role in post-9/11 national security initiatives and intelligence reform. Oversaw the implementation of the National Counterterrorism Center and expanded the CIA's global drone program. Served as the Director of the National Security Agency prior to leading the CIA.

Continue Reading

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

Bangladeshi politician, 1st President
Born
March 17th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1975 50 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent figure in Bengali politics, leadership began in the 1940s as a member of the All-India Muslim Students Federation. Increased influence through association with the Awami League, advocating for Bengali rights. In 1970, the Awami League won a majority in Pakistan's national elections. Played a crucial role in the independence movement, leading to Bangladesh's liberation from Pakistan in 1971. Served as the first President from 1971 to 1972 and later as the Prime Minister until 1975. Assassinated in a military coup in January 1975, his legacy remains pivotal in Bangladesh's history.

Continue Reading

Penelope Lively

English author of acclaimed novels
Born
March 17th, 1933 93 years ago

An English author, she achieved prominence with literary works that explore themes of memory, nostalgia, and the passage of time. Prominent novels include 'Moon Tiger,' which won the Booker Prize in 1987, and 'The Photograph.' Lively's works often blend the personal with historical narratives, creating layered stories that reflect on the intricacies of life. In addition to novels, she authored children's books and essays, further showcasing her versatility in writing. Her contributions to literature have earned her a place among notable contemporary authors.

Continue Reading

Paul Kantner

Singer-songwriter and guitarist for Jefferson Airplane
Born
March 17th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2016 10 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in the San Francisco music scene, contributed to the formation of the band Jefferson Airplane in 1965. Played a key role as a guitarist and singer-songwriter, helping to shape the countercultural sound of the 1960s. The band achieved significant commercial success with hits such as 'Somebody to Love' and 'White Rabbit.' Kantner also formed the band Jefferson Starship and continued to explore new musical directions throughout his career. His work often reflected themes of social change and political consciousness.

Continue Reading