Dewey Redman
Saxophonist known for jazz improvisation
An influential American saxophonist, associated with the free jazz movement, contributed to the evolution of jazz through improvisational techniques and collaborations. Worked extensively with notable musicians, including his tenure with the great Ornette Coleman. Participated in various ensembles, showcasing multifaceted musicianship across bebop, free jazz, and various innovative styles throughout the decades. Released several albums, and his work remains significant in the exploration of jazz aesthetics.
Collaborated with Ornette Coleman
Released albums such as 'The Ear of the Behearer'
Performed with the World Saxophone Quartet
Other People Born on May 17th
Ante Trumbić
Croatian lawyer and politician
Born
May 17th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1938 87 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician who served as the 27th Mayor of Split. Advocated for Croatian rights during the early 20th century and played an essential role in regional politics. Contributed to the establishment of various civic initiatives and was involved in the Croatian National Council. His legal expertise and political acumen shaped local governance in Split during a period of significant change.
Continue ReadingSeth Warner
American colonel and military leader
Born
May 17th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1784 241 years ago — 41 years old
Served as a colonel during the American Revolutionary War, contributing significantly to military operations in the Northern campaigns. Commanded the 2nd Vermont Regiment, engaging in several key battles including the Battle of Bennington. Warner's leadership and strategic skills were pivotal in securing a victory for American forces.
Continue ReadingDorothy Gibson
American actress and singer in 'Saved from the Titanic'
Born
May 17th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1946 79 years ago — 56 years old
An actress and singer whose career gained prominence in the early 20th century. In 1912, gained significant attention for starring in the film 'Saved from the Titanic,' which was one of the first films to depict the Titanic disaster. Initially a stage performer, transitioned to silent films with notable roles that showcased talents in both acting and music. Continued to perform until the onset of World War I, after which she relocated to Europe. Eventually retired from performing and focused on her personal life until her death in 1946.
Continue ReadingAlfonso XIII of Spain
Spanish monarch during turbulent times
Born
May 17th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 55 years old
Became king of Spain at birth in 1886. His reign saw significant political turmoil, including the dictatorship of Miguel Primo de Rivera and the eventual establishment of the Second Spanish Republic in 1931. Faced challenges from various political factions and the growing influence of republicanism. Abdicated in 1931, following the establishment of the republic, and lived in exile in France. Returned to Spain post-World War II but remained a figure of the past rather than an active political player.
Continue ReadingPanagis Tsaldaris
Greek politician, Prime Minister of Greece
Born
May 17th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1936 89 years ago — 68 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Greece during significant political periods. Held office at different times from 1921 to 1924 and again from 1933 to 1935. Participated extensively in the political landscape of Greece during the interwar years, shaping policies and governance. Elected multiple times to the Hellenic Parliament, contributed to legislative developments and national discussions. Engaged in various political movements and alignments reflecting the challenges faced by Greece during this era.
Continue ReadingCool Papa Bell
Baseball player and Negro Leagues star
Born
May 17th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1991 34 years ago — 87 years old
A baseball player excelled in the Negro Leagues during the 1920s and 1930s. Played primarily for the Homestead Grays and the Pittsburgh Crawfords. Renowned for exceptional speed and base running abilities, earned a reputation as one of the fastest players in baseball history. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974, recognizing contributions to the sport and achievements during a segregated era. Continued to influence the game even after retirement by sharing experiences and insights about baseball.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 2nd
Henry Austin Dobson
English poet and author known for poetry
Born
January 18th, 1840 186 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1921 104 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1840, a prominent poet and author contributed significantly to English literature. An advocate of metrical poetry, engaged in literary circles of the 19th century. Authored works that reflected themes of nostalgia and romanticism. Contributed to various periodicals, gained recognition for refined verse and wit. Later works included biographical and critical studies of fellow writers.
Continue ReadingAbe Lenstra
Footballer, pivotal in Dutch football history
Born
November 27th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1985 40 years ago — 64 years old
Played as a forward primarily for Heerenveen in the Netherlands. Contributed significantly to Dutch football from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. Competed in the 1954 FIFA World Cup. Also represented the Dutch national team, earning recognition for exceptional skill and sportsmanship. Post-retirement, became involved in football administration and coaching, influencing the next generation of players.
Continue ReadingBill Melendez
Voice actor and animator for Peanuts
Born
November 15th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2008 17 years ago — 91 years old
A Mexican-American voice actor, animator, director, and producer, contributed greatly to the Peanuts franchise. Worked as a director for numerous animated specials and features based on Charles M. Schulz's comic strip. Voiced the character of Snoopy in many productions and played key roles in bringing the beloved characters to life through animation. Established an animation studio that focused on producing high-quality animated projects. Collaborated with various networks and produced seasonal specials, achieving significant acclaim within the animation community.
Continue ReadingNathaniel Bliss
Astronomer and mathematician, Royal Society
Born
November 28th, 1700 325 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1764 261 years ago — 63 years old
English astronomer and mathematician contributed to early astronomical measurements and calculations. Served as the Astronomer Royal from 1762 until death in 1778. Facilitated observations at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, enhancing the accuracy of astronomical data. Pioneered the methods used for calculating solar and lunar eclipses, and published papers in various scientific journals, influencing subsequent research in celestial navigation.
Continue ReadingRodolfo Hernández Suárez
Colombian politician and presidential candidate
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 79 years old
Started a career in business and construction before entering politics. Served as mayor of Bucaramanga from 2016 to 2019, implementing various urban projects. Ran for the presidency of Colombia in the 2022 elections, gaining national attention and securing a significant portion of the vote. His campaign focused on anti-corruption and economic issues, appealing to a broad base of voters discontented with traditional political structures. Engaged in debates surrounding public policy and economic reforms. Passed away on September 2, 2024.
Continue ReadingMikis Theodorakis
Greek composer of iconic film scores
Born
July 29th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2021 4 years ago — 96 years old
A Greek composer and politician, contributed significantly to music and culture in Greece. Gained international recognition for the score of the film Zorba the Greek. Created numerous works across various genres including symphonies, operas, and chamber music. Played an important role in Greek politics, advocating for democracy during the military junta in the 1960s and 1970s. His compositions often referenced Greek folk music and history, embedding national identity within his works.
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