Dorothy Levitt
Racing driver and automotive journalist
Born
1882
144 years ago
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Resided in England and gained prominence as one of the first female racing drivers in the early 20th century. Competed in various car races, including the 1908 Royal Automobile Club (RAC) Tourist Trophy, showcasing skill in an era predominantly occupied by male drivers. Authored a groundbreaking book on motoring, which included practical advice for women drivers. Contributed to the automotive world through journalism, writing columns that discussed driving and road safety, promoting women's participation in the sport.
One of the first female racing drivers
Competed in the 1908 RAC Tourist Trophy
Authored 'The Woman and the Car'
Other People Who Died on May 17th
Mario Benedetti
Uruguayan author and poet
Born
September 14th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2009 17 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in Latin American literature, this individual authored numerous novels, plays, and poems. Works include 'La Tregua', which explores themes of love and loss, and 'El Hombre que Plantaba Árboles', a celebrated short story. Contributions to journalism included commentaries on social and political issues, reflecting a deep engagement with Uruguayan society. The literature often examined the human condition and the struggles of everyday life, resonating widely with readers. Active in the political landscape, this individual faced exile during periods of political unrest in Uruguay.
Continue ReadingErnest Nash
Photographer and scholar of photography
Born
September 14th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1974 52 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Germany and later residing in Italy, a prominent photographer and scholar dedicated to the study and documentation of photography. Contributed significantly to the understanding of photographic techniques and the history of photography. Held academic positions to teach and share knowledge of visual arts. Produced numerous works that explored the interplay between photography and society. Nash's research included a focus on the evolution of photographic practices across different cultures.
Continue ReadingDaumantas of Pskov
Lithuanian prince and military leader
Died
May 17th, 1299 727 years ago — None years old
Born around 1240, this prince served as the ruler of Pskov in the late 13th century. His reign is characterized by military campaigns against the Teutonic Knights and efforts to consolidate power in the region. Under his leadership, Pskov successfully resisted external threats while maintaining autonomy. The prince's actions contributed to shaping the political landscape of the area during a tumultuous period marked by conflicts over territorial control and influence. Daumantas's legacy persisted beyond his death in 1299, impacting the future governance of Pskov and its relationships with neighboring states.
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 ReadingCatherine I of Russia
Empress of Russia and wife of Peter I
Born
April 15th, 1684 342 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1727 299 years ago — 43 years old
Ascended to the throne as Empress of Russia following the death of Peter the Great in 1725. Catherine I was originally a peasant from Livonia, later marrying Peter in 1707. During her reign, she focused on continuing Peter's policies and strengthening the Russian state. Her rule lasted for just over a year, ending with her death in 1727. Catherine was the first woman to hold the title of Empress of Russia and laid the foundation for future female leadership in Russia.
Continue ReadingLeopold Auenbrugger
Austrian physician and inventor of percussion
Born
November 19th, 1722 303 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1809 217 years ago — 86 years old
A physician developed the technique of percussion for diagnosing diseases. This innovation transformed clinical practices. Initial experiments involved using his own chest as a model to demonstrate the value of tapping and feeling the chest wall to gather diagnostic information. The technique was outlined in a treatise published in 1761, which laid the groundwork for modern physical examination methods. The work emphasized the importance of systematic observation in medicine and was influential in the fields of internal medicine and diagnostics.
Continue Reading