Francis Turretin
Theologian and academic, author of 'Institutes'
Contributed significantly to Reformed theology through the publication of 'Institutes of Elenctic Theology'. Served as a professor of theology in Geneva for many years, influencing the development of Protestant thought. His systematic approach to theology helped shape theological education and discourse, emphasizing the importance of clarity in doctrine and defense of the Christian faith.
Authored 'Institutes of Elenctic Theology'
Served as a professor of theology in Geneva
Influenced Reformed theological education
Other People Born on October 17th
Richard Mentor Johnson
American politician and Vice President
Born
October 17th, 1780 245 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1850 175 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the ninth Vice President of the United States under Martin Van Buren from 1837 to 1841. Represented Kentucky in the United States House of Representatives and later in the Senate. Played a significant role in various legislative initiatives during the early 19th century, particularly in relation to military affairs and land policies. His tenure as Vice President included involvement in the economic issues of the time, particularly the financial panic of 1837.
Continue ReadingDon Coryell
American football coach innovated offense
Born
October 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
Coryell served as a head coach in the NFL and is recognized for developing the 'Air Coryell' offensive system. This system emphasized passing plays and revolutionized offensive strategies in professional football. Coryell coached the San Diego Chargers from 1978 to 1986 and the St. Louis Cardinals from 1973 to 1977. His coaching style enabled quarterbacks to excel and stimulated explosive offensive play.
Continue ReadingBarney Kessel
American guitarist and composer
Born
October 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2004 21 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent jazz guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre from the 1940s onward. Worked with numerous influential musicians and bands, shaping the sound of jazz guitar during a pivotal era. An innovative player, Kessel was among the first guitarists to employ chord melody style. His career included performances on many notable recordings and film scores. He was also an integral member of the celebrated group The Great Guitars alongside Herb Ellis and Charlie Byrd.
Continue ReadingAriel Levy
American journalist and author
Born
October 17th, 1974 51 years ago
A journalist and author contributed to various publications, including The New Yorker. Gained recognition for her writing on issues related to gender, culture, and identity. Authored notable works that delve into personal and societal narratives. Her book 'Til Death Do Us Part explores themes of love and loss through personal experiences. Regularly engaged in discussions and lectures addressing women's rights and social issues.
Continue ReadingAimo Koivunen
Finnish soldier and war hero
Born
October 17th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1989 36 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a corporal in the Finnish Army during World War II. Participated in the Continuation War against the Soviet Union. Gained recognition for surviving a heroic solo escape after a severe battle in 1944, which involved traversing through enemy lines while wounded. Documented experiences in the Arctic warfare drew attention to the harsh conditions faced by soldiers in winter combat.
Continue ReadingHoward Rollins
American actor in 'A Soldier's Play'
Born
October 17th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1996 29 years ago — 46 years old
An actor gained prominence through performances in stage and film. Originated the role of Sergeant Vernon C. McFerson in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play 'A Soldier's Play'. Also appeared in the television miniseries ‘Roots’ and earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for the role of Sam in ‘The Watsons Go to Birmingham’. Rollins' work spanned both theater and screen, showcasing a range of characters and themes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 28th
Coolio
American rapper, producer, actor, Grammy winner
Born
August 1st, 1963 62 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2022 3 years ago — 59 years old
Originated in the early 1990s, a rapper gained recognition with the hit single 'Gangsta's Paradise' from the soundtrack of the film 'Dangerous Minds'. Released several albums during the career, including 'It Takes a Thief' and 'My Soul'. Achieved a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance in 1996. Expanded into acting, appearing in television shows such as 'Futurama' and 'The T.O. Show'. Also produced and contributed to various projects throughout the years.
Continue ReadingJohn Dos Passos
Novelist and playwright of U.S.A.
Born
January 14th, 1896 130 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1970 55 years ago — 74 years old
An American novelist, poet, and playwright, contributed significantly to modern American literature. Wrote the U.S.A. trilogy, which includes the notable works The 42nd Parallel, 1919, and The Big Money. His writings often explored social and political themes and incorporated innovative narrative techniques. In addition to fiction, created works for the stage and engaged in social activism throughout his career.
Continue ReadingGuillermo Endara
Panamanian lawyer and politician, President
Born
May 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2009 16 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 32nd President of Panama from 1989 to 1994. Held the presidency during a critical period marked by the aftermath of the U.S. invasion of Panama. Prior to presidency, served as a member of the National Assembly and held various government posts. Advocated for democratic reforms and worked to rebuild the country in the wake of military dictatorship. His administration focused on economic recovery and strengthening democratic institutions.
Continue ReadingRené Desmaison
French mountaineer and climber
Born
April 14th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1930, a significant figure in French mountaineering, especially recognized for daring ascents in the Himalayas. Achieved the first ascent of the north face of the Dent du Geant in 1958. Carried out numerous ascents in the Mont Blanc massif and led several expeditions to peaks in the Himalayas, including Makalu. Contributed to the exploration of lesser-known routes and peaks, advancing the understanding of high-altitude climbing.
Continue ReadingGeorg Simmel
German Sociologist and Philosopher
Born
1858 168 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1918 107 years ago — 60 years old
Contributed significantly to sociology and philosophy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Focused on societal interactions and the individual within society. Published influential works, including 'The Philosophy of Money' and 'Conflict'. Explored concepts such as social forms and cultural dynamics, offering insights into metropolitan life and modernity.
Continue ReadingWinfield Dunn
American politician, 43rd Governor
Born
July 1st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2024 1 years ago — 97 years old
Served as the 43rd Governor of Tennessee from 1971 to 1975. Prior to the governorship, held the position of mayor of Memphis. Played a significant role in Tennessee's educational reforms and fiscal policies during tenure. After leaving office, continued to be active in business and civic affairs.
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