Dheeran Chinnamalai

Indian commander of the 18th century

Dheeran Chinnamalai - Indian commander of the 18th century
Born

April 17th, 1756
269 years ago

Died

July 31st, 1805
220 years ago — 49 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

India

Links & References

Born in 1756, a notable military commander in India. Played a significant role in the resistance against British colonial expansion. Led forces in the Kongu region and engaged in battles to protect local sovereignty. Formed alliances with various local chieftains and organized effective counter-attacks against British troops. His strategies contributed to the regional resistance efforts during a turbulent period in Indian history.

Led forces against British colonial expansion

Organized military strategies in the Kongu region

Other People Born on April 17th

Maurice Wignall

Jamaican hurdler and long jumper
Born
April 17th, 1976 49 years ago

Competed in athletics, specializing in the 110 meters hurdles and long jump. Represented Jamaica at various international competitions, including the Olympics and World Championships. Achieved personal bests in both events, establishing a reputation within track and field circles.

Continue Reading

Kerry Wendell Thornley

American author and theorist
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1998 26 years ago — 60 years old

An American author and theorist, contributed to various writings on conspiracy theories and the events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Authored the book 'The Prankster and the Sphinx', which explored topics related to the counterculture and alternative thought. Engaged in the creation of fictional narratives closely tied to significant cultural movements. His work often combined elements of satire and philosophy.

Continue Reading

Hervé Bazin

French author known for 'Vipère au poing'
Born
April 17th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 85 years old

An influential French author and poet, published numerous novels and essays throughout the 20th century. Most recognized work, 'Vipère au poing', presented a semiautobiographical narrative of a troubled childhood. Explored themes of family dynamics, personal struggle, and social issues in a variety of literary forms. Contributed to literary criticism and discussions in the French literary circles. Active in literary movements and received accolades for his contributions to French literature, notably the Grand Prix du roman de l'Academie francaise.

Continue Reading

Pekka Vasala

Finnish middle-distance runner; Olympic medalist
Born
April 17th, 1948 77 years ago

Competed in middle-distance running events, achieving notable success in the 1500 meters. Secured a gold medal at the 1971 European Championships in Athletics and a bronze medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics. Represented Finland in various international competitions, showcasing exceptional speed and endurance throughout the career. Recorded several national titles and held Finnish records during the athletic career.

Continue Reading

René Moawad

Lebanese politician and former president
Born
April 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1989 35 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent political figure, served as the 13th President of Lebanon from November to December 1989. Moawad's presidency was marked by efforts to restore stability and peace during the Lebanese Civil War. Before assuming the presidency, significant roles included being a member of the Lebanese Parliament and serving as the Minister of Youth and Sports. His tenure was cut short when he was assassinated shortly after taking office, leading to a period of national mourning and reflection on the ongoing conflicts in the country. Moawad is remembered for his commitment to national sovereignty and rebuilding Lebanon during tumultuous times.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand Piëch

Automotive engineer and Volkswagen CEO
Born
April 17th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old

An accomplished automotive engineer and businessman, contributions to the automotive industry include leadership roles at Audi and Volkswagen. Oversaw development of the Audi Quattro, a groundbreaking all-wheel-drive vehicle that revolutionized performance standards. Served as Chairman of the Volkswagen Group, guiding the company through significant expansion and innovation. Advocated for engineering excellence, emphasizing performance and quality in vehicle design.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 31st

Bill Russell

Basketball player and coach; NBA Champion
Born
February 12th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 88 years old

Basketball player and coach achieved significant success in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Played college basketball at the University of San Francisco, leading the team to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956. Drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1956, played a pivotal role in the team's dynasty during the late 1950s and 1960s. Won a total of 11 NBA championships, the most by any player in league history. Served as player-coach for the Celtics, becoming the first African American to hold such a position in the NBA. Upon retirement, became a prominent advocate for civil rights and social justice.

Continue Reading

Alan Parker

Film director and screenwriter
Born
February 14th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2020 5 years ago — 76 years old

A director, producer, and screenwriter from England, contributed significantly to the film industry. Directed acclaimed films such as 'Midnight Express', 'Fame', and 'The Commitments'. Also won several prestigious awards, including a BAFTA and Golden Globe. Parker's body of work spanned various genres, showcasing versatility and storytelling prowess.

Continue Reading

Mohammed Rafi

Indian playback singer with timeless songs
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1980 45 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent playback singer in Indian cinema, contributed to over 5,000 songs in multiple languages including Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu. Gained recognition for exceptional vocal range and ability to convey emotion through music. Collaborated with renowned composers and artists, becoming a staple voice in films from the 1940s to the 1970s. Received the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer in 1968 and was honored with the Padma Shri in 1967 for contributions to the arts. His songs remain popular in Indian film music.

Continue Reading

Thomas Dudley

Soldier and politician, 3rd Governor of Massachusetts
Born
October 12th, 1576 449 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1653 372 years ago — 76 years old

Born in England, this individual migrated to the American colonies and became a prominent figure in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Serving as the third governor from 1634 to 1635, leadership demonstrated an influential role in the establishment and governance of the colony. Initially engaged in military service, the individual participated in defending against Native American conflicts and played a significant role in the development of colonial policy and society.

Continue Reading

Luis Vicente de Velasco e Isla

Spanish sailor and naval commander
Born
February 9th, 1711 314 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1762 263 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1711, served in the Spanish Navy, and played a crucial role in multiple naval operations. Commanded the Spanish naval forces during campaigns in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Oversaw important expeditions and engagements, contributing to Spain's naval presence during the 18th century.

Continue Reading

Ion Dragoumis

Greek philosopher and diplomat
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1920 105 years ago — 42 years old

A philosopher and diplomat from Greece contributed significantly to discussions on national identity and cultural issues. Involved in diplomatic service, served as Greek consul in various locations. Engaged in the intellectual life of Greece, writing essays and articles reflecting on national matters and philosophical concepts. His legacy includes contributions to Greek literature and thought, influencing subsequent generations of thinkers and writers.

Continue Reading