George Forbes
New Zealand Prime Minister
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
New Zealand
Links & References
Served as the 22nd Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1930 to 1935. As a member of the Reform Party, held various ministerial positions prior to becoming Prime Minister, including Minister of Finance. Implemented key policies during the Great Depression to stabilize the economy. After leaving office, remained active in politics and served in various capacities, including the role of a prominent public figure in New Zealand.
Served as Prime Minister during the Great Depression
Held the position of Minister of Finance
Other People Born on March 12th
William Buckland
Geologist; Dean of Westminster
Born
March 12th, 1784 242 years ago
Died
1856 170 years ago — 72 years old
An English geologist and paleontologist, this individual made significant contributions to the understanding of geology and fossil records. He served as the first people to describe a dinosaur's fossil, coining the term 'Dinosauria'. His work included the study of the geology of the English Lake District and the role of fossils in understanding Earth's history. As Dean of Westminster, engagement in educational initiatives also took place, along with contributions to religious and civic life.
Continue ReadingDavid Mellor
British politician and government minister
Born
March 12th, 1949 77 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2009 17 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a member of the Conservative Party in the UK. Held various ministerial roles in the 1990s, including Minister of State for Trade and Minister of State for the Home Office. Represented the constituency of Putney in Parliament from 1983 to 1997. Resigned from the government in 1992 after a personal scandal but continued to serve in Parliament until 1997. After leaving politics, transitioned to a career in media and business.
Continue ReadingDannyLux
American singer-songwriter with viral hits
Born
March 12th, 2004 22 years ago
This individual emerged as a prominent singer-songwriter in the early 2020s, gaining attention through a unique style that blends various musical influences. Debut work quickly resonated with a large audience, leading to significant streaming success across platforms. Collaborations with other artists in the genre further enhanced visibility. The ability to engage fans with relatable lyrics and melodies played a key role in growing a dedicated following. Participation in music festivals and tours contributed to a rising profile within the music industry.
Continue ReadingW. H. R. Rivers
English anthropologist and psychiatrist
Born
March 12th, 1864 162 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1922 104 years ago — 58 years old
Significant contributions to anthropology and psychiatry characterized the career of a prominent English figure. Rivers studied various cultures, focusing on Pacific Islanders and their customs. As a psychiatrist, he explored mental health treatment, incorporating insights from his anthropological research. His work as a soldier during World War I significantly influenced his views on psychology and trauma, leading to advancements in the treatment of shell shock. Rivers’ research in ethnology shed light on the interactions between different cultures and the role of war in influencing social structures.
Continue ReadingUmirzak Shukeyev
Kazakh chairman of Samruk-Kazyna
Born
March 12th, 1964 62 years ago
Born in 1964, held the position of chairman of Samruk-Kazyna, a sovereign wealth fund of Kazakhstan. Played a significant role in managing state assets and implemented various reforms aimed at economic growth. Oversaw initiatives in various sectors, including energy and transportation. Engagement in national and international investment projects marked the tenure.
Continue ReadingAnne Hyde
Queen of England, consort of James II
Born
March 12th, 1637 389 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1671 355 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1637, the spouse of James II, consort served in the position from 1685 until death in 1671. Anne was the daughter of Edward Hyde, who served as the first Earl of Clarendon. Her marriage to James II was initially clandestine, occurring in 1660, before his ascension to the throne. Anne gave birth to several children, including two daughters who later became queens. Throughout her life, she maintained a significant role in court politics and affairs of state.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Frank G. Slaughter
Physician and author of medical fiction
Born
February 25th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2001 25 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1908, this American authored numerous novels that blended medical themes with engaging storytelling. A medical doctor by training, focused on writing from the 1950s onward, producing works that highlighted the intricacies of the medical profession and personal stories of survival. Several of these novels became bestsellers, appealing to a wide audience and bringing attention to various medical conditions and ethical dilemmas. Additionally, served as a medical consultant for television programs, which helped bridge the gap between real medical practice and entertainment.
Continue ReadingAl-Qa'im bi-Amr Allah
Fatimid Caliph during the 10th century
Died
May 17th, 946 1080 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the Fatimid Caliphate in 934 and ruled until death in 946. Oversaw the period of consolidation in the empire and maintained control over regions including North Africa and parts of the Middle East. His rule marked efforts to establish Ismaili Shi'ism within the territories governed by the Fatimids, promoting religious activities and political stability.
Continue ReadingEmpress Dowager Hu of Northern Wei
Empress Dowager of Northern Wei dynasty
Died
May 17th, 528 1498 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the Empress Dowager during the Northern Wei dynasty in China. Became regent after the death of her husband, Emperor Xiaowen. Played a significant role in promoting Buddhism within the court and influencing political decisions. Her reign was marked by the consolidation of power and the establishment of the Northern Wei as a major dynasty in northern China.
Continue ReadingJohn C. Breckinridge
American general and Vice President
Born
January 16th, 1821 205 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1875 151 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the 14th Vice President of the United States from 1857 to 1861. Preceded in office by William R. King, assumed office under President James Buchanan. Breckinridge was a member of the Democratic Party and had previously represented Kentucky in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate. During the American Civil War, served as a general in the Confederate Army, leading troops in several battles. After the war, resided in Cuba and later returned to practice law.
Continue ReadingC. P. Krishnan Nair
Businessman, founder of The Leela Hotels
Born
February 9th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2014 12 years ago — 92 years old
Built a luxury hotel chain in India, transforming the hospitality industry. Founded The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts in 1987, establishing a reputation for excellence in service and design. Expanded the brand into several key cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Developed renowned properties that became landmarks in their respective locations. Contributed to the increase of tourism and hospitality standards in India.
Continue ReadingGunnar Myrdal
Sociologist and economist, Nobel laureate
Born
December 6th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1987 39 years ago — 88 years old
Contributions in the fields of sociology and economics included significant works that examined social issues, economic development, and political structures. Authored 'An American Dilemma: The Negro Problem and Modern Democracy,' which analyzed race relations in the United States. Also wrote 'Towards a Theory of the Circular Causal Relationships' that explored interdependencies in social science. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1974 for the analytical work that linked economic and social issues.
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