Elijah Cummings

American politician and civil rights advocate

Elijah Cummings - Leaders & Politicians born 1951
Born

1951
75 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as a U.S. Congressman representing Maryland's 7th congressional district from 1996 until death in 2019. Played a significant role in numerous civil rights initiatives and government oversight efforts. Chaired the House Oversight and Reform Committee, focusing on accountability and transparency in government. Advocated for healthcare reform, voting rights, and social justice.

Chaired the House Oversight and Reform Committee

Advocated for the Affordable Care Act

Fought against voter suppression

Other People Who Died on October 17th

Jay Livingston

Singer-songwriter, 'Que Sera, Sera'
Born
March 28th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old

An American singer-songwriter contributed significantly to the music industry during the mid-20th century. Collaborated extensively with Ray Evans, with whom he co-wrote numerous successful songs. Secured an Oscar Award for Best Original Song for 'Que Sera, Sera' in 1956, a song that became popular through its association with the Doris Day film 'The Man Who Knew Too Much.' The partnership yielded many hit songs that remain standards in American music.

Continue Reading

Joan Hickson

English actress most known for Miss Marple
Born
August 5th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 92 years old

An English actress with a career spanning several decades. Gained prominence for portraying Miss Marple in the television adaptations of Agatha Christie's detective novels during the 1980s and 1990s. Appeared in various stage productions and films, showcasing a wide range of character roles. Received acclaim for performances in both the West End and on screen, establishing a strong presence in British theatre and television. Continued to work into her later years, earning respect and admiration from peers and audiences alike.

Continue Reading

Alfons Maria Jakob

German neurologist and author of research
Born
July 2nd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1931 94 years ago — 47 years old

A neurologist and researcher who significantly contributed to the understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Early work focused on the pathology of diseases affecting the nervous system. Jakob is particularly associated with the identification of a rare prion disease, named Jakob disease after him. Published various studies that advanced the field of neurology and influenced subsequent research on neurodegeneration. His findings laid the foundation for later understanding of similar conditions, including Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

Continue Reading

Urmas Ott

Estonian journalist and author
Born
April 23rd, 1955 70 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 53 years old

An influential journalist and author, served as an editor for various Estonian publications. Played a significant role in the establishment of independent media in Estonia following the Soviet era. Actively contributed to the discourse on journalism and literature in Estonia, providing critical insights into the sociopolitical landscape of the country, especially during the transitional period in the early 1990s. Authored several works that explored themes of identity, freedom, and the complexities of modern Estonian society.

Continue Reading

Tennessee Ernie Ford

Singer and television host, 'Sixteen Tons'
Born
February 13th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1991 34 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent American singer and television host, he gained fame during the 1950s and 1960s. His deep baritone voice contributed to a successful music career, highlighted by the hit single 'Sixteen Tons'. In addition to music, he hosted 'The Tennessee Ernie Ford Show' on television, which blended entertainment with music. His contributions to the country and pop music genres helped solidify his place in Americana.

Continue Reading

Puyi

Chinese Emperor and Last Ruler
Born
February 7th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1967 58 years ago — 61 years old

Born on February 7, 1906, this individual ascended to the throne at a young age, becoming the last Emperor of China. Ruled from 1908 until abdication in 1912 following the Xinhai Revolution, which resulted in the establishment of the Republic of China. Spent time as a puppet emperor in Manchukuo during the Japanese occupation. Captured by Soviet forces after World War II, later returned to China and lived as a common citizen. Authored an autobiography detailing experiences of imperial life and subsequent hardships.

Continue Reading