Donald Coggan
English archbishop and leader in the Church
Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1974 to 1980. Played a significant role in the Church of England during a time of social change. Contributed to discussions on interfaith dialogue and the role of the church in society. Involved in various initiatives addressing moral and ethical issues faced by the community. Authored several theological works and served on international church committees.
Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1974 to 1980
Authored theological works including 'The Church and the World'
Promoted interfaith dialogue during the 1970s
Other People Born on October 9th
Charles X of France
French monarch and last Bourbon king
Born
October 9th, 1757 268 years ago
Died
1836 190 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1757, ascended to the throne in 1824 as the last king from the House of Bourbon. His reign was characterized by conservative policies and resistance to liberal changes in French society. Faced with increasing unrest and opposition, he was forced to abdicate in 1830 during the July Revolution, leading to the establishment of the July Monarchy under Louis-Philippe. Exiled to Germany, some royalists continued to regard him as the legitimate king until his death in 1836.
Continue ReadingHermann Emil Fischer
Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry 1902
Born
October 9th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Germany, a chemist contributed significantly to the understanding of carbohydrates and purines. Fischer's work on the synthesis of nucleic acids and the study of enzyme activity laid the foundation for modern biochemistry. The synthesis of carbohydrates, particularly glucose, marked a milestone in the field. The research advanced knowledge of molecular structure and bonding, influencing future scientific studies. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1902, recognized for contributions to sugar chemistry and work in synthesis reactions. Also held a professorship in chemistry at the University of Berlin where research promoted further advancements in organic chemistry.
Continue ReadingClifford M. Hardin
American Secretary of Agriculture
Born
October 9th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 17th United States Secretary of Agriculture from 1969 to 1971. Contributed to various agricultural policies and programs during the Nixon administration. Involved in academia, holding significant positions at various universities, including the University of Nebraska.
Continue ReadingLéopold Sédar Senghor
Senegalese poet and first president
Born
October 9th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2001 24 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent poet and politician, served as the first president of Senegal from 1960 to 1980. Contributed to the development of Senegal's cultural identity and promoted the concept of African socialism. Senghor's poetry reflected his belief in the unique spirit of Africa and the importance of cultural heritage, with notable works such as 'Chants d'ombre' and 'Hosties noires'. He was a member of the Académie Française, highlighting his influence in literature and politics.
Continue ReadingPeter I of Cyprus
King of Cyprus and military leader
Born
October 9th, 1328 697 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1369 657 years ago — 40 years old
Ruled as King of Cyprus from 1358 until death in 1369. Initiated military campaigns against the Mamluks and sought to expand the influence of the Kingdom of Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean. Participated in the Knights Templar and was involved in the Crusade efforts. Championed trade relations with Genoa and Venice, strengthening the economy of Cyprus. Commissioned construction of monuments like the Gothic Cathedral of St. Nicholas and promoted the arts during the reign.
Continue ReadingEugene Bullard
Pilot and World War I veteran
Born
October 9th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1961 65 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1895, this individual became the first African American military pilot. After moving to France, served in the French Foreign Legion during World War I. Flew combat missions with the Lafayette Flying Corps, achieving recognition for bravery. Following the war, involved in various professions including boxing and as a nightclub owner in Paris. Returned to the United States after World War II, where contributions to aviation and military history were acknowledged.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
John Deere
Blacksmith and founder of Deere & Company
Born
February 7th, 1804 222 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1886 140 years ago — 82 years old
A blacksmith and businessman established a brand recognized for agricultural machinery. Pioneered the creation of a plow that efficiently tilled the tough Midwestern soil, leading to significant advancements in farming techniques. Founded Deere & Company in 1837, which became one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. The business model emphasized high-quality products and customer service, contributing to the growth of modern agriculture.
Continue ReadingPeter Schulz
German lawyer and Mayor of Hamburg
Born
April 25th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 83 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the Mayor of Hamburg during the early 1980s. Engaged in local governance, focused on urban issues and public administration. Advocated for policies aimed at improving the quality of life in Hamburg. Contributed to the development of the city's infrastructure and community programs.
Continue ReadingPanagis Tsaldaris
Greek politician, Prime Minister of Greece
Born
May 17th, 1868 158 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1936 90 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 ReadingAbe Burrows
Playwright and director: 'Guys and Dolls'
Born
December 18th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1985 41 years ago — 74 years old
An author and playwright who contributed significantly to American theater. Early works included 'Coney Island' and 'The Guy Who Came Back'. Achieved acclaim with the musical 'Guys and Dolls', which won the Tony Award for Best Musical. Also wrote the book for the musical 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying', which garnered the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Established a reputation for witty dialogue and engaging narratives.
Continue ReadingJorge Rafael Videla
Argentinian general and President
Born
August 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 43rd President of Argentina from 1976 to 1981 following a military coup. Led the country during the Dirty War, a period characterized by widespread human rights abuses. Implemented policies aimed at suppressing dissent and promoting economic reforms. Oversaw actions that resulted in the disappearance and torture of thousands.
Continue ReadingToe Blake
Ice hockey player and coach, Montreal Canadiens
Born
August 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1995 31 years ago — 82 years old
Played professional ice hockey and later became a successful coach in the National Hockey League (NHL). As a player, won three Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens. Transitioned to coaching, leading the Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships from the bench. Recognized for contributions to the sport and significant wins during a prolific coaching career.
Continue Reading