Dizzy Dean
Baseball player and sportscaster
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved significant success in the 1930s, earning the National League Most Valuable Player Award in 1934. Known for his distinctive personality and entertaining style, transitioned to a career in broadcasting after retiring from professional baseball.
Won the 1934 National League MVP Award
Pitched for the St. Louis Cardinals
Selected to the All-Star team multiple times
Other People Born on January 16th
François de Vendôme
Duke of Beaufort and military leader
Born
January 16th, 1616 409 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1669 356 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1616, served as a notable French nobleman and military commander during the Thirty Years' War. Engaged in notable battles, including the Siege of Épernay, which marked significant military actions in France's history. Participated in the Fronde, a series of civil wars in France, opposing the central authority of the crown. Duke of Beaufort commanded troops and displayed leadership in various military endeavors. His lineage included connections to the royal family, amplifying his influence within the French aristocracy.
Continue ReadingRoger Lapébie
French professional cyclist, Tour de France winner
Born
January 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1996 29 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1911, this professional cyclist gained prominence in the early 20th century. A significant achievement includes winning the Tour de France in 1937, becoming the first cyclist to win while riding for the French team. He also competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, contributing to the sport's history during a transformative era in cycling. Throughout the career, notable performances included victories in various one-day races and the French national championships. The cyclist's contributions helped shape the competitive landscape of professional cycling in France and beyond.
Continue ReadingJohannes Schöner
German astronomer and cartographer
Born
January 16th, 1477 548 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1547 478 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of astronomy and cartography during the Renaissance. Designed celestial globes that illustrated the movements of celestial bodies. Produced maps that reflected the geographical knowledge of the time, including the first map of the Americas. Collaborated with other scholars and continued the work of earlier astronomers in refining astrological techniques. Schöner's work laid groundwork for future advancements in navigation and geography.
Continue ReadingSusan Sontag
American essayist and critic
Born
January 16th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2004 20 years ago — 71 years old
An influential novelist, essayist, and critic, this individual explored themes of culture, art, and politics through a unique lens. Major works include 'On Photography' and 'Illness as Metaphor', which dissect the complexities of visual culture and the relationship between illness and metaphor. Contributions to literary criticism and cultural theory established a significant presence in contemporary thought. This individual engaged in public debates during the 1960s and beyond, addressing various social issues through essays and lectures.
Continue ReadingMargaret Booth
Film editor and producer of classic films
Born
January 16th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2002 23 years ago — 104 years old
Born in 1898, a pioneering film editor and producer in the American film industry. Worked extensively with MGM and had a significant role in shaping the editing style of numerous classic films. Contributed to editing iconic movies such as 'The Wizard of Oz', 'Gone with the Wind', and 'The Good Earth'. Served as head of the editing department at MGM for many years, influencing the careers of many other editors and filmmakers. Actively worked in the industry for several decades, celebrated for craftsmanship and dedication to the art of film editing.
Continue ReadingEduardo Frei Montalva
Chilean lawyer and politician, President
Born
January 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1982 43 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent Chilean lawyer and politician, served as the 28th President of Chile from 1964 to 1970. Implemented the 'Chilean Way to Socialism', promoting land reform and nationalization of copper industries. During presidency, initiated significant social programs aimed at reducing poverty and improving education. Played a critical role in establishing a broader social safety net through various policies. His tenure focused on balancing economic development with social equity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 17th
Karl Tausig
Pianist and composer, concert performances
Born
1841 184 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1871 154 years ago — 30 years old
A Polish virtuoso pianist, arranger, and composer made significant contributions to the piano repertoire in the 19th century. Tausig studied under Franz Liszt and became noted for his technical proficiency and interpretative skills. He expanded upon the works of composers like Chopin and Beethoven, providing arrangements that showcased the piano's capabilities. His performances garnered critical acclaim, and he was recognized as one of the leading pianists of his time. Tausig also founded the 'Tausig School of Music' in Berlin, influencing a generation of musicians. His untimely death at a young age curtailed a promising career.
Continue ReadingGeorge William Russell
Irish author, poet, painter, and editor
Born
April 10th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1935 90 years ago — 68 years old
An influential figure in the Irish literary revival, contributed significantly to literature through poetry, essays, and artistic endeavors. Edited the Irish nationalist newspaper 'The Irish Homestead' and published numerous works including 'The Story of Ireland' and 'The House of the Titans'. Associated with the Dublin and Belfast literary circles, engaged in the promotion of Irish culture and folklore. Established a distinct style that merged mysticism with realism, becoming an emblematic figure of the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingLarry Keith
American actor known for soap operas
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 79 years old
This actor had a significant career in television, particularly recognized for roles in soap operas. One of the most notable performances occurred in the soap opera 'All My Children', where a memorable role was portrayed. Another prominent series was 'The Edge of Night', further solidifying a reputation in the genre. The actor also made guest appearances in various prime-time television shows and plays, showcasing a versatility in performance across different platforms.
Continue ReadingHenri Alleg
Journalist and author of "La Question"
Born
July 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1921, a journalist focused on colonial Algeria. In 1957, captured by French paratroopers during the Algerian War, subjected to torture while writing articles that condemned the use of violence against Algerians. Authored "La Question," detailing his experiences and the broader context of torture in the war. The book became influential in raising awareness about human rights abuses. After the war, continued to write about Algeria's struggle for independence and the consequences of colonialism. Later lived in France and contributed to various publications.
Continue ReadingRobina Nicol
New Zealand photographer and suffragist
Born
June 7th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1942 83 years ago — 81 years old
Pioneered women's rights in New Zealand through activism and photography. Contributed to the suffrage movement, advocating for women's voting rights. Worked as a photographer, capturing significant moments and portraits of the era. Participated in various organizations promoting equality and social reforms.
Continue ReadingMaud Menten
Canadian physician and biochemist
Born
March 20th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1960 65 years ago — 81 years old
Contributions to biochemistry included work on enzyme kinetics and histochemistry. Collaborated with Leonor Michaelis to describe the Michaelis-Menten equation, a foundational principle in enzyme kinetics. Menten's research also advanced understanding of enzyme reactions and tissue staining techniques. Held a faculty position at the University of Toronto and published many scientific papers throughout a career spanning several decades.
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