Edith New
Militant Suffragette Advocate
Active in the women's suffrage movement in England, dedicated efforts to securing voting rights for women. Engaged in direct action campaigns, including acts of civil disobedience and property damage. Worked alongside notable suffragettes and was involved with organizations advocating for women's rights. Advocated for the cause through public speaking and writing, contributing to the wider movement's visibility.
Participated in militant suffragette actions
Contributed to the Women's Social and Political Union
Other People Born on March 17th
Jim Bridger
Fur trader and Western explorer
Born
March 17th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1881 144 years ago — 77 years old
An American fur trader and explorer, known for significant contributions to the westward expansion of the United States during the 19th century. Bridger established various trading posts and was one of the first to explore and map the Great Salt Lake. He served as a guide for numerous expeditions, including those for the U.S. Army. His skills and knowledge of the Western territories made him a valuable resource, and he played a crucial role in helping settlers navigate the region. Bridger's extensive travels through the Rockies and the West contributed to the mapping and understanding of the American frontier.
Continue ReadingChuck Muncie
American football player and All-Pro running back
Born
March 17th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 60 years old
Played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for the New Orleans Saints and the San Diego Chargers. Achieved significant success during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Developed a reputation for powerful running style and scoring ability. Selected to the Pro Bowl in 1979 and 1980. Contributed to the Chargers' offense during their Super Bowl appearance in the 1980 season.
Continue ReadingVille Kiviniemi
Finnish politician and mayor
Born
March 17th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1951 74 years ago — 74 years old
Became a prominent political figure in Finland during the early 20th century. Served as the mayor of Oulu, influencing local governance and development. Actively participated in Finnish politics during a crucial time in the nation's history, contributing to the shaping of policies and political structures. Engaged in community building and public service, reflecting the challenges faced by Finnish society during the period.
Continue ReadingMichael Hayden
General and CIA Director
Born
March 17th, 1945 80 years ago
A retired four-star general in the United States Air Force, served as the 20th Director of the Central Intelligence Agency from 2006 to 2009. Played a crucial role in post-9/11 national security initiatives and intelligence reform. Oversaw the implementation of the National Counterterrorism Center and expanded the CIA's global drone program. Served as the Director of the National Security Agency prior to leading the CIA.
Continue ReadingPatrick Brontë
Irish-English priest and author of poetry
Born
March 17th, 1777 248 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1861 164 years ago — 84 years old
A priest with a strong interest in literature, contributed significantly to the literary world through poetry and works that reflected on society and family. Authored several volumes of poetry, including 'The Cottage in the Wood' and 'On the Death of a Young Lady', demonstrating a thoughtful approach toward themes of nature and mortality. Additionally, served as a vicar in Haworth, England, where a familial literary legacy was cultivated through the notable works of his children, including Charlotte and Emily Brontë.
Continue ReadingNat King Cole
American singer and pianist known for 'Unforgettable'
Born
March 17th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1965 60 years ago — 45 years old
A celebrated American singer and pianist made significant contributions to the music industry, particularly in jazz and pop genres. Achieved fame as the host of 'The Nat King Cole Show', one of the first television shows to feature an African American host. Also known for a smooth vocal style and a sophisticated approach to music, popularized several classics including 'Mona Lisa' and 'Unforgettable'. Throughout the career, collaborated with numerous artists and musicians, blending different styles into performances that reached a wide audience.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 2nd
Jean Vuarnet
Ski Racer and Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
January 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent ski racer from France, distinguished as the first competitor to win Olympic gold in downhill skiing during the 1960 Squaw Valley Games. Following a successful racing career, transitioned into coaching and ski resort management, contributing to the sport's development and promotion. Established a ski resort in France which bears his name, influencing skiing in the region.
Continue ReadingGordon Hirabayashi
Sociologist and academic on Japanese American internment
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old
Contributed to the field of sociology with a focus on civil rights and the experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II. Conducted significant research on the internment of Japanese Americans and the impact it had on their identity and culture. Actively engaged in academic discussions and wrote extensively on issues related to social justice and discrimination. Hirabayashi's legal case regarding his refusal to comply with internment orders reached the U.S. Supreme Court, challenging the constitutionality of the internment policy.
Continue ReadingAnne Francis
Actress in 'Forbidden Planet' and 'Honey West'
Born
September 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2011 14 years ago — 80 years old
An accomplished American actress, celebrated for roles in film and television. Gained significant acclaim for portraying Alta in the science fiction classic 'Forbidden Planet' and for the titular role in the television series 'Honey West'. Worked extensively in the industry from the 1940s through the 2000s, showcasing versatility across various genres.
Continue ReadingÁgnes Keleti
Hungarian Olympic gymnast and champion
Born
January 9th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2025 0 years ago — 103 years old
A prominent figure in gymnastics, this individual competed in several Olympic Games, achieving remarkable success. In the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, secured gold medals in the women's individual all-around and floor exercise. Continued to excel in subsequent competitions, notably capturing additional medals at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Later focused on coaching and promoting gymnastics, contributing to the sport's development. Historical significance includes being one of the oldest living Olympic champions.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Jane Howard
English author and screenwriter
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
An English author and screenwriter gained recognition for contributions to literature and television. Authored the acclaimed Cazalet Chronicles series, exploring family dynamics and social changes in post-war Britain. Received multiple awards for literary achievements, including the Whitbread Prize. Worked on various screenplays, enriching British television. The narrative style and character development found in novels influenced contemporary writers.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Canova da Milano
Italian composer of Renaissance music
Born
August 18th, 1497 528 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1543 482 years ago — 45 years old
A significant figure in the development of Renaissance music, contributed to the lute repertoire and composed numerous pieces for various instruments and voices. Created a style that blended both improvisation and written music, influencing future composers and musicians. His works are characterized by intricate melodies and harmonic exploration, contributing to the richness of the Renaissance musical landscape. Continued to have relevance in music history due to the complexity and artistry of the compositions.
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