Edmonde Charles-Roux
French journalist and author, wrote 'Oublier Piaf'
A journalist and author with significant contributions to literature and cultural commentary. Worked for various publications including 'Le Figaro' and 'L'Express'. Authored several novels, with 'Oublier Piaf' gaining notable recognition. Served as a member of the Académie Goncourt, which awards prestigious literary prizes in France. Engaged in uncovering social issues and highlighting cultural stories through journalism and fiction.
Authored 'Oublier Piaf'
Served on Académie Goncourt
Other People Born on April 17th
Boomer Esiason
American football quarterback & sportscaster
Born
April 17th, 1961 64 years ago
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals. Won the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1988. Led the Bengals to Super Bowl XXIII in 1989. Transitioned to a successful career as a sports commentator and analyst after retiring from professional football.
Continue ReadingMarguerite Bourgeoys
French-Canadian nun and founder of schools
Born
April 17th, 1620 405 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1700 326 years ago — 79 years old
A French-Canadian nun established the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal in the 17th century. This religious community focused on the education of young girls and played a critical role in the development of educational institutions in New France. Additionally, she was involved in missionary work and the spiritual life of the early settlers. Canonized as a saint in 1982, her contributions to education and religious life are commemorated in various institutions in Canada.
Continue ReadingBen Barnes
American businessman and politician
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Served as the 36th Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1969 to 1973. Played a significant role in Texas politics during the late 20th century. Focused on education reform and public transportation issues while in office. Was also involved in various business endeavors after leaving public service.
Continue ReadingBilly Fury
English singer-songwriter and musician
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1983 43 years ago — 42 years old
An influential singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1950s. Achieved significant success in the UK music scene with rock and roll hits. First single, 'Maybe Tomorrow,' released in 1959, reached the UK charts. Released numerous albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with a distinctive style that combined elements of pop and rock. Continued to perform until health issues impacted career. Estimated to have sold over 1 million records throughout his career, cementing a lasting legacy in British music.
Continue ReadingBuster Williams
Jazz bassist and composer
Born
April 17th, 1942 83 years ago
A prominent jazz bassist and composer, contributions span several decades in the music industry. Early collaborations included work with renowned artists such as McCoy Tyner and Art Davis. Williams became a significant figure in the jazz scene, recognized for his innovative approach to bass playing. He participated in numerous recordings, showcasing his skill and creativity. Notable projects include work on the album 'Crystal Silence' alongside Chick Corea and Gary Burton, which set a standard for jazz fusion.
Continue ReadingNick Hornby
English novelist and screenwriter
Born
April 17th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in 1957, this English novelist, essayist, lyricist, and screenwriter gained recognition for works exploring themes of music, relationships, and adolescent experiences. The debut novel, "Fever Pitch," detailed a passionate obsession with football, blending autobiography and sports commentary. Subsequent novels, including "High Fidelity" and "About a Boy," garnered critical acclaim and were adapted into successful films, further establishing a career in screenwriting. Contributions to music journalism and various essays displayed an ongoing engagement with popular culture. The collaboration with musician Ben Folds resulted in a musical adaptation of "High Fidelity."
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 20th
Sibusiso Moyo
Zimbabwean politician and army general
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2021 5 years ago — 61 years old
Served as a major general in the Zimbabwe National Army. Led the army's operations during the 2017 coup that resulted in the ousting of long-time President Robert Mugabe. After the coup, appointed as Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in the government of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Played a significant role in shaping Zimbabwe's foreign relations during tenure. Passed away on January 20, 2021.
Continue ReadingRobert P. T. Coffin
American author and poet
Born
1892 134 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1955 71 years ago — 63 years old
An author and poet from the United States, produced a significant body of work throughout the early to mid-20th century. Contributed extensively to American letters and was actively involved in literary circles. Published several poetry collections and novels, gaining recognition for both his narrative style and themes. Served as a professor at the University of New Hampshire, fostering a new generation of writers and poets. His poems often reflected on nature and human experiences, earning a place within the American literary canon.
Continue ReadingRobinson Jeffers
American poet and philosopher
Born
January 10th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1962 64 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in American poetry, this individual contributed significantly to the literary landscape through evocative and powerful verse. Influenced by nature and human existence, his style often reflected a deep connection to the natural world. His works frequently explored themes of solitude, the vastness of the universe, and the interplay between humanity and nature. Major collections include 'Tamar' and 'The Tower Beyond Tragedy', showcasing his unique blend of philosophical reflections and poetic imagination. Additionally, the poet's essays delved into subjects such as ethics, modern civilization, and the relationship between man and nature, further establishing his reputation in both poetry and philosophy.
Continue ReadingT. Nadaraja
Sri Lankan lawyer and academic
Born
December 27th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2004 22 years ago — 86 years old
Practiced law and contributed to academia in Sri Lanka. Served in various capacities within the legal community and committed to advancing legal education. Engaged in scholarly work that addressed legal issues pertinent to Sri Lanka, influencing both practitioners and students. Involved in initiatives aimed at improving the legal system and fostering a better understanding of law among the populace.
Continue ReadingJosh Gibson
Baseball player with Negro League standout
Born
December 21st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1947 79 years ago — 35 years old
Played as a catcher for the Homestead Grays and the Pittsburgh Crawfords. Regarded as one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history during the Negro Leagues. Recorded an estimated 800 home runs over his career, though official statistics remain incomplete due to the era in which he played. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972, recognizing his contributions to the sport and excellence on the field. Played in several All-Star games, showcasing talent that transcended barriers in the sport.
Continue ReadingAlamgir Kabir
Bangladeshi film director and screenwriter
Born
December 26th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1989 37 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent Bangladeshi director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual significantly contributed to the country's film industry. Working in the 1970s and 1980s, created notable films that explored social themes and cultural issues. Contributions included involvement with the film 'A River Named Titas' and other cinematic works that reflected the struggles of the Bangladeshi people. This person's work is celebrated for its artistic integrity and thought-provoking narratives, influencing a generation of filmmakers in Bangladesh.
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