Fernando Lopes-Graça
Portuguese composer and conductor
A prominent figure in Portuguese music, contributed significantly to the national music scene. Composed numerous orchestral works, choral pieces, and songs drawing from Portuguese folk traditions. Served as a conductor and championed the works of other composers. Engaged in music education and the dissemination of cultural heritage through music. Established institutions that supported Portuguese music education and performance.
Composed orchestral and choral works
Promoted Portuguese folk music
Contributed to music education
Other People Born on December 17th
Simo Häyhä
Finland's legendary World War II sniper
Born
December 17th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2002 23 years ago — 96 years old
A Finnish soldier achieved significant notoriety during the Winter War (1939-1940) between Finland and the Soviet Union. Renowned for exceptional marksmanship skills, recorded over 500 confirmed kills as a sniper. Utilized a Finnish M28/30 rifle and took advantage of the winter landscape to conceal movements. Adopted a strategy that involved minimizing exposure and maximizing stealth, earning the nickname 'White Death.' Survived serious injuries and continued to lead a private life after the war until passing away in 2002.
Continue ReadingJasmine Armfield
English actress in 'EastEnders'
Born
December 17th, 1998 26 years ago
Debuted in acting with the role of Bex Fowler in the BBC One soap opera 'EastEnders'. Joined the cast in 2014 and portrayed the character until 2020. The character's storylines included significant issues such as mental health and teenage struggles, which gained attention during her tenure on the show. Additionally, Armfield participated in various stage productions and has been involved in charity work supporting mental health awareness. With her performance, contributed to the ongoing conversations around youth issues within the realm of television.
Continue ReadingCraig Kielburger
Canadian activist and author of books
Born
December 17th, 1982 42 years ago
An activist focused on children's rights, founded the organization Free the Children at age 12. Authored several books emphasizing social issues and youth advocacy. Established WE Charity, which aimed to alleviate poverty and improve education globally. Engaged in numerous speaking events and initiatives promoting volunteerism and ethical living.
Continue ReadingIrving Petlin
American painter and academic
Born
December 17th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 84 years old
An American painter and academic focused on figurative art, explored themes of struggle and resilience. Worked extensively in various media, including painting and printmaking. Contributed to art education through teaching positions at multiple institutions. Exhibited work in numerous galleries and museums, showcasing a unique artistic vision.
Continue ReadingMary Cartwright
Mathematician and academic in England
Born
December 17th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1998 27 years ago — 97 years old
Contributions included work in mathematical biology and chaos theory. Demonstrated how certain mathematical problems could explain the behavior of non-linear systems. Worked on the theory of differential equations and was influential in the analysis of oscillating systems. Served as a professor at the University of Birmingham, where significant research and teaching occurred throughout a lengthy academic career.
Continue ReadingPatrick Müller
Swiss footballer and international player
Born
December 17th, 1976 48 years ago
A professional footballer played as a defender. Started his career at Lyon, contributing to the team's successes in Ligue 1. Moved to Switzerland, where played for clubs including FC Basel and FC Lausanne-Sport. Represented the Swiss national team at various levels, earning over 50 caps. Retired from professional football in the late 2000s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 27th
Simon Kahquados
Potawatomi political activist
Born
May 18th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1930 95 years ago — 79 years old
Engaged in advocacy for Native American rights, focusing on issues affecting the Potawatomi tribe. Worked towards the preservation of Potawatomi culture and was involved in various legislative efforts. Helped to organize and participate in community events aimed at raising awareness about indigenous issues.
Continue ReadingJan Hein Donner
Dutch chess player and journalist
Born
July 6th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1988 37 years ago — 61 years old
Championship-winning chess player and journalist. Contributed to chess literature and analysis through numerous writings and columns. Competed in multiple international tournaments, achieving prominence in the chess community. Notable for participating in the 1954 Dutch Chess Championship and winning the title. Influenced chess strategy discussions and public perceptions through media involvement.
Continue ReadingFrank Christian
Trumpet player and bandleader
Born
September 3rd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1973 52 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1887, a prominent American trumpet player and bandleader, gained recognition in the jazz and dance band scenes during the early 20th century. Worked with various ensembles, highlighting skills in performance and composition. Contributed to the development of jazz music through innovative techniques and arrangements. His influence extended through collaborations with other musicians and by leading his own bands. The height of his career coincided with the rise of big bands in America, making significant contributions to the genre.
Continue ReadingBill Willis
American football player, coach, and innovator
Born
October 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2007 18 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American football player and coach, paved the way for future generations in the sport. Played college football at Ohio State University and became an integral part of the team. Transitioned to professional football, playing as a defensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL. Contributed to the team's success during the 1940s and 1950s, earning recognition for skill and leadership. Later served as a coach, influencing players and the game at various levels.
Continue ReadingHarvey Milk
LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate and Politician
Born
May 22nd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1978 47 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent political figure and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, served as a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Elected in 1977, Milk became one of the first openly gay individuals to hold public office in California. His tenure focused on advocating for civil rights, housing, and anti-discrimination policies, significantly influencing the LGBTQ+ community. Milk's life and career were tragically cut short when he was assassinated in 1978.
Continue ReadingAlexius Meinong
Philosopher and academic, founded object theory
Born
July 17th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1920 105 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1853, significant contributions were made to philosophy, particularly in the areas of ontology and epistemology. Developed the theory of objects, which explored non-existent objects and their implications for metaphysics. Worked at the University of Graz, where various philosophical works were published. Contributed to discussions on intentionality and the nature of fictional entities.
Continue Reading