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
Ville Kiviniemi
Finnish politician and mayor
Born
March 17th, 1877 149 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1951 75 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 ReadingPatrick Hastings
English lawyer and Attorney General
Born
March 17th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
1952 74 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1880, a prominent English lawyer and politician served as Attorney General for England and Wales. Renowned for significant legal contributions during a transformative period in British law, played a crucial role in various high-profile cases. Elected as a Member of Parliament, actively participated in legislative processes and governmental affairs, contributing to the development of the justice system in the UK.
Continue ReadingNat King Cole
American singer and pianist known for 'Unforgettable'
Born
March 17th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1965 61 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 ReadingSheikh Mujibur Rahman
Bangladeshi politician, 1st President
Born
March 17th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1975 50 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent figure in Bengali politics, leadership began in the 1940s as a member of the All-India Muslim Students Federation. Increased influence through association with the Awami League, advocating for Bengali rights. In 1970, the Awami League won a majority in Pakistan's national elections. Played a crucial role in the independence movement, leading to Bangladesh's liberation from Pakistan in 1971. Served as the first President from 1971 to 1972 and later as the Prime Minister until 1975. Assassinated in a military coup in January 1975, his legacy remains pivotal in Bangladesh's history.
Continue ReadingPaul Kantner
Singer-songwriter and guitarist for Jefferson Airplane
Born
March 17th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2016 10 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in the San Francisco music scene, contributed to the formation of the band Jefferson Airplane in 1965. Played a key role as a guitarist and singer-songwriter, helping to shape the countercultural sound of the 1960s. The band achieved significant commercial success with hits such as 'Somebody to Love' and 'White Rabbit.' Kantner also formed the band Jefferson Starship and continued to explore new musical directions throughout his career. His work often reflected themes of social change and political consciousness.
Continue ReadingAlexander McQueen
Fashion designer founded eponymous brand
Born
March 17th, 1969 57 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 41 years old
An English fashion designer established a reputation for innovative and provocative collections. Initially trained as a tailor at Savile Row, later attended Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. In 1992, launched the eponymous fashion label that became synonymous with avant-garde and theatrical designs. The designer served as chief designer at Givenchy from 1996 to 2001. Recognized for pushing boundaries in fashion through extraordinary runway shows and intricate garment construction.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 2nd
Jean Vuarnet
Ski Racer and Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
January 18th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2017 9 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 ReadingFrederick William IV of Prussia
King of Prussia, Crowned in 1840
Born
1795 231 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1861 165 years ago — 66 years old
Ruled Prussia from 1840 until 1861. Attempted to implement a constitutional monarchy after the revolutions of 1848. Promoted art and architecture, commissioning the reconstruction of the Berlin City Palace. Faced criticism for reactionary policies and later refused the German imperial crown offered in 1849. A patron of the arts, contributed to the cultural development of Prussia.
Continue ReadingJames Longstreet
American general and diplomat
Born
January 8th, 1821 205 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1904 122 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War. Played a significant role in major battles including the Battle of Gettysburg and the Siege of Petersburg. Post-war, engaged in diplomatic efforts and promoted reconciliation between the North and South. Served as the U.S. Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, contributing to American foreign relations in the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingGordon Hirabayashi
Sociologist and academic on Japanese American internment
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2012 14 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 ReadingTeresa Torańska
Journalist and author of 'On the Trail'
Born
January 1st, 1944 82 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2013 13 years ago — 69 years old
Born in Poland, this journalist and author contributed significantly to investigative journalism and literature. Torańska gained prominence with the publication of 'On the Trail of the Solidarity', which provided insight into the Solidarity movement in Poland during the 1980s. Her work highlighted key figures and events during a pivotal time in the country's history. Torańska's journalistic style combined thorough research with personal narratives, offering a unique perspective on the political and social transformations in Poland. Besides writing, Torańska was also involved in various media projects that sought to engage audiences in discussions about democracy, freedom, and human rights.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Canova da Milano
Italian composer of Renaissance music
Born
August 18th, 1497 528 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1543 483 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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