George F. Kennan

Diplomat and historian; Long Telegram

George F. Kennan - Diplomat and historian; Long Telegram
Born

February 16th, 1904
121 years ago

Died

March 17th, 2005
20 years ago — 101 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1904, a prominent American diplomat and historian contributed significantly to U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War era. As the United States Ambassador to the Soviet Union, articulated the strategy of containment, aiming to prevent the spread of communism. This approach was foundational in shaping U.S. relations with the Soviet Union throughout the Cold War. His influential Long Telegram in 1946 outlined the U.S. approach towards the Soviet Union and argued against appeasement, advocating for a firm stance against communism. Further work included academic writings and influential policy recommendations during his tenure.

Authored the Long Telegram

Served as U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union

Other People Born on February 16th

Warren Ellis

Author and Screenwriter of Transmetropolitan
Born
February 16th, 1968 57 years ago

A prominent English author and screenwriter, recognized for contributions to graphic novels and screenwriting. Career began with work in comic book series and expanded into writing original screenplays. Most notable work includes the graphic novel series Transmetropolitan, which gained a large following. Ellis has also worked on various other comic series, such as Planetary and The Authority, influencing the genre significantly. In addition, he has developed screenplays for film and television, further showcasing versatility in storytelling.

Continue Reading

Tuomo Ruutu

Finnish ice hockey player and coach
Born
February 16th, 1983 42 years ago

A former professional ice hockey player, played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for teams including the Chicago Blackhawks and the Carolina Hurricanes. Also contributed as a coach after retirement from playing. Represented Finland in international competitions, earning accolades at the IIHF World Championships and the 2006 Winter Olympics.

Continue Reading

Giambattista Bodoni

Italian publisher and engraver
Born
February 16th, 1740 285 years ago
Died
1813 212 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1740, a prominent Italian publisher and engraver revolutionized the field of typography through the design of typefaces and layout. Established a printing house in Parma, where meticulous attention to detail in typography and design resulted in notable publications. Published the influential 'Manuale Tipografico' in 1818, showcasing a collection of typefaces and demonstrating the aesthetic possibilities of printed works. The legacy remains significant in the realm of graphic design and typography, influencing modern practices in printing and publishing.

Continue Reading

Susanna Kallur

Sprint Hurdler; European Champion
Born
February 16th, 1981 44 years ago

Competed in sprint hurdles, achieving significant success in track and field events. Won a gold medal at the 2006 European Athletics Championships and represented Sweden in multiple international competitions. Recorded a personal best of 12.42 seconds in the 100 meters hurdles, ranking among the elite sprinters in this discipline. Overcame injuries throughout the career while maintaining a presence on the athletics circuit.

Continue Reading

John Sharp

English archbishop and author
Born
February 16th, 1643 382 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1714 311 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the Archbishop of York from 1691 until death in 1714. Engaged in the political and religious disputes of the time, particularly regarding the Church of England and nonconformity. Worked to promote the interests of the Anglican Church while opposing the increasingly rigid structure imposed by the government. Published several works on theology, including important sermons and pamphlets that addressed issues of faith and church governance.

Continue Reading

Kathleen Clifford

American actress in silent films
Born
February 16th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1887, an American actress became prominent during the silent film era. Clifford appeared in numerous films, primarily in the 1910s and 1920s. She starred in productions such as "The House of Shame" and "The Beloved Cheater," showcasing talent in both dramatic and comedic roles. Her contributions to early cinema are recognized as part of the foundation of the film industry.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 17th

James Edward Smith

Botanist and entomologist, author of Flora Britannica
Born
December 2nd, 1759 265 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1828 197 years ago — 68 years old

An English botanist and entomologist contributed significantly to the study of plants and insects. Founded the Linnæan Society of London in 1788, which promoted the study of natural history. Bestowed the honorary title of Fellow of the Royal Society in recognition of significant contributions to botany. Authored 'Flora Britannica', providing extensive information about British plants. Edited and published the works of Carl Linnaeus and ensured the dissemination of botanical knowledge.

Continue Reading

Sylvester "Pat" Weaver

Television broadcaster and producer
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 94 years old

Significant contributions to television broadcasting included pioneering a new format for the medium. Developed influential programs such as 'The Tonight Show' and 'Today', helping to shape the landscape of American television. Oversaw the establishment of the television operations for NBC, leading innovative programming strategies during the early years of television. Played a key role in launching several popular shows that defined early television.

Continue Reading

Sophia Albertina

Princess-Abbess of Quedlinburg
Born
1753 272 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1829 196 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the Princess-Abbess of Quedlinburg from 1779 until death in 1829. Oversaw the administration and religious life of the Quedlinburg Abbey, which was a significant institution in the Holy Roman Empire. Played a vital role in maintaining the autonomy and cultural significance of the abbey during her tenure. Engaged in charitable works and patronage of the arts, supporting various projects within the community.

Continue Reading

François de La Rochefoucauld

French author of maxims and reflections
Born
December 8th, 1558 466 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1680 345 years ago — 121 years old

A prominent 17th-century French author, recognized for contributions to literature through a collection of maxims and reflective writings. Originally part of the aristocracy, experiences during the Fronde, a series of civil wars in France, influenced the philosophical outlook. The major work, 'Réflexions ou sentences et maximes morales,' published in 1665, compiled observations on human nature and behavior, providing a window into the moral complexities of the time. The concise and epigrammatic style marked a significant development in French literature.

Continue Reading

Mai Zetterling

Actress and director of 'The Girls' (1968)
Born
May 24th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1994 31 years ago — 68 years old

This actress and director was prominent in Swedish and English cinema. She gained recognition for her performances in a range of films and television series from the 1940s through the 1980s. Significant works include the film 'The Girls' released in 1968, which she directed, showcasing her dual talent as both an actress and a filmmaker. Throughout her career, she collaborated with notable directors and contributed to the artistic landscape of cinema in both Sweden and the UK. Zetterling appeared in several films, establishing a legacy within the film industry before her passing in 1994.

Continue Reading

Nada Dimić

People's Hero of Yugoslavia
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1942 83 years ago — 19 years old

Recognized as a People's Hero of Yugoslavia, contributed to resistance movements during World War II. Dimić became a symbol of bravery and resistance against the Axis powers. Captured and killed by occupational forces, Dimić's legacy continued as a martyr for the Serbs during the conflict. Her actions during tumultuous times exemplified commitment to her ideals.

Continue Reading