Francesco Cossiga
President of Italy, 8th officeholder
Served as the 8th President of Italy from 1985 to 1992. Cossiga held various political roles, including the role of Prime Minister from 1974 to 1976. His career in politics began in the Christian Democracy party, which he joined in the post-World War II era. Cossiga was instrumental in handling significant political crises during his tenure, particularly the 1980 Irpinia earthquake response. After his presidency, he contributed to public discourse through a career in academia, sharing insights on politics and governance.
Served as Italy's President from 1985-1992
Served as Prime Minister of Italy from 1974-1976
Other People Born on July 26th
Chinami Yoshida
Japanese curler and Olympic athlete
Born
July 26th, 1991 34 years ago
Competed in curling, representing Japan in international events. Achieved significant success at the World Curling Championships and the Winter Olympics. Participated in the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, contributing to the team's overall performance and visibility in the sport.
Continue ReadingPanagiotis Kone
Greek professional footballer
Born
July 26th, 1987 38 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Began career at PAOK FC and later played for clubs including AEK Athens and Bologna FC in Serie A. Represented the Greek national team in international competitions. Contributed to the squad during UEFA Euro 2012.
Continue ReadingFredy Montero
Colombian footballer and striker
Born
July 26th, 1987 38 years ago
Born in Colombia, a professional footballer gained recognition playing as a striker. Started career at Independiente Santa Fe before moving to the MLS, where played for the Seattle Sounders FC. Achieved significant success in the MLS, including winning the MLS Cup. Demonstrated talent and skill in both domestic and international competitions, contributing to various teams with goals and assists. Known for adaptability and performance in high-stakes matches.
Continue ReadingJordie Benn
Ice Hockey Player, Vancouver Canucks
Born
July 26th, 1987 38 years ago
Professional ice hockey player competed in the NHL. Played primarily as a defenseman. Drafted in the 5th round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft by the Dallas Stars. Played parts of eight seasons with the Stars, contributing to the team's defensive line. Later joined the Montreal Canadiens and the Vancouver Canucks. Noted for solid defensive skills and leadership on the ice. Represented Canada at the international level, participating in various competitions.
Continue ReadingRaymond Faitala-Mariner
Rugby league player with the Warriors
Born
July 26th, 1993 32 years ago
A rugby league player from New Zealand, known for playing in the National Rugby League (NRL). Faitala-Mariner emerged as a prominent forward for the New Zealand Warriors, participating in significant matches and showcasing a strong athletic performance. Represented New Zealand in international competitions, contributing to the team's efforts on the world stage.
Continue ReadingDobie Gray
Singer-songwriter known for 'Drift Away'
Born
July 26th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2011 14 years ago — 71 years old
An American singer-songwriter and producer, known for contributions to the music industry, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. Achieved recognition with the hit single 'Drift Away,' which became a classic and has been covered by numerous artists. His music blended elements of soul, pop, and country, appealing to a broad audience. Gray also produced tracks for other performers, expanding influence in the music scene.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Thea Astley
Australian journalist and author
Born
August 25th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2004 21 years ago — 78 years old
Astley contributed significantly to Australian literature with a focus on the social and cultural landscapes of the country. As a novelist, essays and short stories were published across various notable platforms. The body of work includes themes exploring identity, loss, and the human condition, often reflecting aspects of Australian life. Astley won several prestigious awards for her literary contributions, including the Miles Franklin Literary Award multiple times.
Continue ReadingSilvio Santos
Brazilian television host and entrepreneur
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 94 years old
A media mogul, engaged in the Brazilian television industry for several decades. Founded the influential SBT network, significantly shaping Brazilian entertainment. Hosted the long-running television show 'Programa Silvio Santos', which became a staple in Brazilian homes. Built a business empire encompassing various sectors, including retail, cosmetics, and banking. His charismatic presenting style and business acumen established him as a prominent figure in Brazilian culture.
Continue ReadingArthur Hiller
Film director of Love Story fame
Born
November 22nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 92 years old
A Canadian-American director, notable for contributions to film and television, worked extensively in both media. Directed the classic romantic drama 'Love Story', which became a cultural phenomenon in the early 1970s. Hiller also directed 'The In-Laws' and 'Silver Streak', both of which received critical acclaim. Throughout a prolific career, he became involved in several television projects, showcasing his versatility in adapting stories across genres.
Continue ReadingGus Winckel
Dutch lieutenant and pilot
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 101 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Netherlands Air Force and demonstrated notable aerial skills during his military career. Played a key role in the Dutch air operations post-World War II, contributing to the establishment of air defense strategies. Engaged in various missions that highlighted the importance of aerial reconnaissance and tactical aerial support for military operations. His career spanned several decades, transitioning from military service to civil aviation roles.
Continue ReadingJohn Hollander
Poet and literary critic with notable works
Born
October 28th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
An American poet, critic, and educator contributed significantly to contemporary poetry and literary criticism. Published numerous collections of poetry including 'Fable' and 'The Picture Window'. Served as a professor at several esteemed institutions, including Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania. Contributed articles and essays to major literary journals and was influential in shaping modern poetry's landscape through both creative work and critical analysis.
Continue ReadingFranco Sensi
Italian businessman and politician
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 82 years old
A businessman and politician involved in the sports sector, influential in the management of a major football club. Served as president of AS Roma, overseeing significant successes during tenure. Engaged in various social initiatives, contributing to community development. Worked to promote the football club and enhance its reputation both locally and internationally.
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