Ezra Otis Kendall
Astronomer and mathematician
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Contributions included significant work in astronomy and mathematics during the 19th century. Served as a professor at various institutions and engaged in extensive research in celestial mechanics. Involved in the study of the orbits of comets and planets, helping to advance understanding in these fields. Published numerous articles and papers that contributed to the academic discourse of his time. Participated in various scientific societies and contributed to the educational landscape of the era.
Published works on celestial mechanics
Served as a professor in mathematics
Other People Born on May 17th
Jean Rédélé
Race car driver and founder of Alpine
Born
May 17th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2007 18 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent race car driver and pilot, established the Alpine automobile brand in 1955. Rédélé gained recognition for both his contributions to automotive engineering and competitive racing. His career included various successes in national and international competitions, showcasing innovative design and performance in sports cars. The company became known for its rally cars, particularly the Alpine A110, which won the Monte Carlo Rally in 1971. Rédélé's experience as a pilot complemented his automotive pursuits, influencing his approach to performance and speed.
Continue ReadingJohnny Warren
Footballer, coach, and sportscaster
Born
May 17th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2004 21 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in Australian football, contributed significantly to the sport as both a player and coach. Played for the national team and was instrumental in promoting football in Australia. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting, providing insights and analysis that shaped public understanding of the game. His commitment to the sport led to the establishment of football as a respected discipline in Australia, fostering a new generation of players and fans.
Continue ReadingHorace Elgin Dodge
Automobile manufacturer, co-founded Dodge
Born
May 17th, 1868 158 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1920 105 years ago — 52 years old
Co-founded the Dodge Brothers Company, a significant automobile manufacturer in the early 20th century. The company became famous for creating high-quality cars, especially known for their innovation and engineering. Played a crucial role in the automotive industry by producing vehicles that were popular among consumers. Contributed to the growth of the American automotive sector, particularly during the World War era, when the company also produced military vehicles and arms.
Continue ReadingMarshall Applewhite
Cult leader and founder of Heaven's Gate
Born
May 17th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 66 years old
A cult leader founded the religious group Heaven's Gate in the 1970s. The group combined elements of Christian theology with beliefs in extraterrestrial life. Applewhite led followers in embracing a belief system that proposed spiritual ascension and the possibility of physical transformation into non-human beings. In 1997, the group gained notoriety when 39 members died in a mass suicide in California, believing they would transition to an extraterrestrial spacecraft following the Hale-Bopp comet.
Continue ReadingVirginie Loveling
Belgian author and poet
Born
May 17th, 1836 190 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1923 102 years ago — 87 years old
Virginie Loveling was a Belgian author and poet who contributed significantly to the literary landscape of the 19th century. She wrote novels, essays, and poetry, exploring themes of social change and women's roles in society. Often associated with the literary movement emphasizing realism, her works reflect the cultural context of her time. Loveling's writing was distinguished by its clarity and emotional depth, which resonated with readers. Her best-known work, the novel 'Marie', focused on the life and struggles of women in contemporary society, and remains an important part of Belgian literature.
Continue ReadingArchibald Cox
American lawyer and 31st Solicitor General
Born
May 17th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2004 22 years ago — 92 years old
Practiced law after graduating from Harvard Law School. Served as the 31st United States Solicitor General from 1961 to 1965, representing the federal government before the Supreme Court. Appointed as special prosecutor during the Watergate scandal, overseeing the investigation of the Nixon administration's role in the affair. His tenure included the critical moment known as the Saturday Night Massacre, when he was dismissed by President Nixon, which intensified public outcry and led to further investigations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 5th
Harold Urey
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 29th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1981 45 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent American chemist and astronomer, contributions focused on isotopic chemistry and nuclear physics. Developed methods for separating isotopes and played a significant role in the Manhattan Project. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934 for the discovery of deuterium, an isotope of hydrogen. Served as a professor at several universities, including Columbia University and the University of California, Berkeley.
Continue ReadingKim Mi-soo
South Korean actress and model
Born
1992 34 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2022 4 years ago — 30 years old
An actress and model, renowned for roles in television and film. Gained prominence for performance in the series 'Snowdrop' and 'My Roommate is a Gumiho.' Also appeared in the movie 'Killing Romance.' Recognized for talent in portraying complex characters and elevating narratives within South Korean media.
Continue ReadingJoseph Lelyveld
Journalist and executive editor, The New York Times
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2024 2 years ago — 87 years old
An American journalist served as executive editor of The New York Times. Lelyveld began his career in journalism at The New York Times, contributing as a reporter and editor for several decades. He focused on foreign affairs and held positions as the chief of the newspaper's bureau in several international locations. Under his leadership, the newspaper won numerous awards, including Pulitzer Prizes. After retiring from daily journalism, he authored books that examined important historical and social issues, further contributing to public discourse through his writing.
Continue ReadingRoy Jenkins
Chancellor of the Exchequer, politician
Born
November 11th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2003 23 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent Welsh politician served as the Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1967 to 1970. Played a key role in the establishment of the Open University. Actively participated in the formation of the Social Democratic Party in the early 1980s. Contributed to various cultural and historical works, including writing biographies of notable figures. Engaged in significant public service throughout a substantial political career.
Continue ReadingHerman Smith-Johannsen
Skier and Olympic competitor in 1924
Born
June 15th, 1875 151 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1987 39 years ago — 111 years old
A Norwegian-Canadian skier participated in the 1924 Winter Olympics in Chamonix, France. Settling in Canada, significant contributions were made to the development of skiing, promoting the sport across North America. Regarded as a pioneer in cross-country skiing, played a crucial role in establishing ski organizations and events, which fostered the growth of skiing as a competitive sport.
Continue ReadingTafazzul Haque Habiganji
Islamic scholar and politician in Bangladesh
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2020 6 years ago — 82 years old
Engaged in Islamic scholarship and political activism. Contributed to the development of Islamic teachings and their implementation in socio-political spheres. Served as a member of parliament and was involved in various legislative initiatives. Played a significant role in promoting religious education and social welfare across communities. Focused on addressing educational reforms within the Islamic framework, impacting the lives of many individuals in Bangladesh. His work in politics included participation in national discussions regarding religious affairs and economic development.
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