Esther Rolle
American actress and 'Good Times' star
An American actress recognized for significant contributions to television and film. Played a leading role asFlorida Evans in the television series 'Good Times', which aired from 1974 to 1979. Also starred in films such as 'Driving Miss Daisy' in 1989 and 'A Raisin in the Sun' in 1961. Achieved acclaim for portrayals that often focused on African American family dynamics and issues.
Played Florida Evans in 'Good Times'
Starred in 'A Raisin in the Sun'
Appeared in 'Driving Miss Daisy'
Other People Born on November 8th
Dmitry Yazov
Last Marshal of the Soviet Union
Born
November 8th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2020 5 years ago — 95 years old
Served in the Soviet military, rising through the ranks to become Marshal. Held the position of Minister of Defence from 1987 to 1991 during a turbulent period for the Soviet Union. Participated in the events surrounding the August Coup in 1991, which aimed to reverse the reforms of Mikhail Gorbachev. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, transitioned to a political career, serving in various roles including as a member of the Federation Council.
Continue ReadingNikolaos Triantafyllakos
Greek politician, Prime Minister
Born
November 8th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1939 87 years ago — 84 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Greece during the early 20th century. Led the country during a challenging period marked by political instability and economic difficulties. Focused on reforming governmental structures and improving public administration. His tenure included navigating international relations and domestic challenges.
Continue ReadingTomoyuki Yamashita
Japanese general during World War II
Born
November 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1946 79 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Commanded Japanese forces in the Malayan Campaign and the Battle of Singapore, leading to the capture of the British stronghold in 1942. Led troops in various campaigns throughout the Pacific, demonstrating tactical skills in land warfare. Post-war, faced trial for war crimes and was executed in 1946.
Continue ReadingTech N9ne
Musician and record producer, 'Angel My'
Born
November 8th, 1971 54 years ago
This American musician, record producer, and actor gained recognition in the hip-hop industry through a distinct style characterized by rapid-fire lyrics and unique beats. After founding the independent label Strange Music in 1999, significant commercial success followed with multiple chart-topping albums. Noteworthy works include 'Angels,' 'Caribou Lou,' and the album 'Everready (The Religion).' Collaborations with prominent artists in the industry further bolstered visibility. Aside from music, ventures into acting included appearances in films and television series. A dedicated fan base and influential presence in the underground rap scene defined a multifaceted career.
Continue ReadingJohn Byron
Admiral and 24th Governor of Newfoundland
Born
November 8th, 1723 302 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1786 239 years ago — 62 years old
Served as a naval officer and politician during the 18th century. Commanded British naval forces and held the position of Commodore Governor of Newfoundland from 1765 to 1766. Participated in various military campaigns and was involved in shaping naval policies. His tenure focused on the British expansion in the North American colonies, particularly in Newfoundland.
Continue ReadingDale Gardner
American astronaut and mission commander
Born
November 8th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
An American captain and astronaut, played a crucial role in space exploration during the 1980s. Flew on two Space Shuttle missions, STS-7 in 1983 and STS-51G in 1985, participating in satellite deployment and scientific experiments. Served in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot before joining NASA. Contributed to the development and testing of new technologies for space missions. Upon retiring from NASA, worked in various engineering and management roles in the aerospace industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 17th
Gregory of Tours
French bishop and historian of Gaul
Born
November 30th, 539 1486 years ago
Died
November 17th, 594 1431 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent bishop in the early Christian church, this figure served as the Bishop of Tours and became a significant historian of Gaul during the 6th century. His work, 'Histories', chronicles the history of the Merovingian dynasty and the church, offering critical insights into the social and political dynamics of the time. Appointment as bishop occurred in 573, and he maintained this role until death in 594. The writings provided by this historian have been essential for understanding the early medieval period in France.
Continue ReadingJack Worrall
Australian cricketer and footballer
Born
June 20th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1937 88 years ago — 77 years old
A versatile athlete who excelled in both cricket and Australian rules football. Played first-class cricket for Victoria and participated in the early years of the VFL. Transitioned from player to coach, applying knowledge gained on the field to mentor future generations. Achieved success in both sports, contributing to their development in Australia.
Continue ReadingMervyn Peake
English author and illustrator of Gormenghast
Born
July 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1968 57 years ago — 57 years old
An English author and illustrator, gained recognition for the Gormenghast series, which includes the novels 'Titus Groan' and 'Gormenghast'. The intricate and gothic-style world created in these works displayed both literary and artistic talent. Peake also contributed to the field of children's literature through various illustrated stories. His illustrations reflected a distinctive style that complemented his writing, showcasing a unique blend of imagination and depth.
Continue ReadingEdmund FitzAlan
9th Earl of Arundel, English politician
Born
May 1st, 1285 740 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1326 699 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1285, served as the 9th Earl of Arundel. Active in English politics during the 14th century, held significant influence at the royal court. Contributed to the governance of England and managed aspects of his vast estates. Engaged in the conflicts of his time, including participation in the baronial struggles and alignment with various factions within the nobility.
Continue ReadingDavid Zeisberger
Czech-American missionary and clergyman
Born
April 11th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1808 217 years ago — 87 years old
Czech-American clergyman and missionary served primarily among Native American communities in North America. Arrived in Pennsylvania in 1745 and joined the Moravian Church, where he worked to spread Christianity among Indigenous peoples. Established mission communities, achieving notable success among the Delaware and Mohican tribes. Played a crucial role in the development of the Moravian settlements in Ohio, particularly in the founding of the town of Schoenbrunn. His writings on the culture and experiences of Native Americans contributed to historical understanding of the time.
Continue ReadingJohn T. Downey
CIA agent and federal judge
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a CIA agent during the Cold War, participating in covert operations in support of U.S. foreign policy. Following a career in intelligence, transitioned to a judicial role, serving as a federal judge. Contributed to the legal community and focused on upholding the law during tenure in the judiciary.
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