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
Emilio de Villota
Spanish race car driver, Formula One participant
Born
July 26th, 1946 79 years ago
Competed in Formula One during the early 1970s. Participated in the 1971 and 1972 seasons driving for the March and the Scuderia Ferrari teams. Transitioned to sports car racing after leaving Formula One, achieving notable success in endurance events. Elected to the Spanish parliament as a representative for the Socialist Workers' Party in the early 1990s. Involved in motorsport development and promotion in Spain during later years.
Continue ReadingBob Lilly
Professional football player and photographer
Born
July 26th, 1939 86 years ago
Played defensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL) for the Dallas Cowboys from 1961 to 1974. Contributed significant defensive strength that led the Cowboys to five NFC Championships and a victory in Super Bowl VI. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980. Post-football career included a passion for photography, capturing landscapes and wildlife, reflecting a commitment to the arts.
Continue ReadingJean Baubérot
Historian and sociologist focused on secularism
Born
July 26th, 1941 84 years ago
Born in 1941, this individual made significant contributions to sociology and history, particularly in the context of secularism and religion in France. Engaged in academic discourse and research, served as a professor at the University of Paris 12. Developed the concept of living secularism, emphasizing coexistence between various beliefs. An advocate for the understanding of secularism as a dynamic and evolving phenomenon. Participated in public debates and authored numerous works exploring the interaction of religion and modernity. Influenced educational approaches to secularism in French schools.
Continue ReadingDarlene Love
Singer and actress; Grammy-winning artist
Born
July 26th, 1941 84 years ago
Originated in gospel music, transitioning to popular music in the early 1960s. Became the lead singer of The Crystals, contributing significantly to the song 'He's a Rebel.' Pursued a successful solo career, with notable hit 'Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).' Acted in film and television, including roles in 'Lethal Weapon' and '20 Feet from Stardom.' Earned a Grammy Award for Best American Roots Performance in 2014. Recognized for her powerful vocals and lasting influence on the music industry.
Continue ReadingVladimír Mečiar
Slovak politician, 1st Prime Minister of Slovakia
Born
July 26th, 1942 83 years ago
Served as the first Prime Minister of Slovakia after the dissolution of Czechoslovakia. Played a significant role in shaping Slovak politics during the early years of independence. Held multiple terms in office, implementing economic reforms and navigating the political landscape of post-communist Slovakia. Established the HZDS party, which influenced Slovak governance in the 1990s.
Continue ReadingBrenton Wood
R&B singer-songwriter and musician
Born
July 26th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2025 1 years ago — 83 years old
An American R&B singer-songwriter and keyboard player emerged in the 1960s. Gained prominence with hit singles such as 'The Oogum Boogum Song' and 'Gimme Little Sign.' Released several albums, with a distinctive style that blended soul and pop. Established a successful career spanning multiple decades, influencing the genre with memorable melodies and engaging performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Regnier de Graaf
Dutch physician and anatomist
Born
July 30th, 1641 384 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1673 352 years ago — 32 years old
A prominent physician and anatomist, made significant contributions to the understanding of human anatomy and reproduction. Conducted important research on the female reproductive system, particularly the Graafian follicle, which plays a crucial role in ovulation. Published work emphasized the importance of careful anatomical observation and laid foundational insights for future studies in reproductive biology.
Continue ReadingAase Bjerkholt
Norwegian politician and minister
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 97 years old
Served as Minister of Children, Equality and Social Inclusion in Norway. Focused on policies related to children's rights, gender equality, and social welfare. Worked within the Norwegian Parliament, influencing legislation that impacted various social issues. Contributed to the development of initiatives aimed at improving conditions for vulnerable groups in society.
Continue ReadingVictor Poor
Engineer, developer of Datapoint 2200
Born
July 12th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 79 years old
An engineer born in 1933, contributed significantly to the development of computing technology. Focused on advancements in hardware and software, played a critical role in creating the Datapoint 2200, which is recognized as one of the first programmable desktop computers. This innovation helped pave the way for the personal computer revolution, influencing future designs and architectures in computing. Served as a key figure in the evolution of early computer systems and supported the growth of the computing industry during the 1970s.
Continue ReadingOdilia Dank
American educator and politician
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old
An educator and politician served in the New Mexico House of Representatives. Contributed to various educational initiatives and reforms. Advocated for improved educational policies and support for teachers and students. Participated in community outreach and local governance.
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 ReadingSophie Masloff
Civil servant and Mayor of Pittsburgh
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 97 years old
Served as the 56th Mayor of Pittsburgh from 1988 to 1994. Held various positions in municipal government, including City Council President. Focused on community development and local governance during time in office. Involved in numerous civic and community organizations and worked to enhance the city's infrastructure and quality of life for residents.
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