George M. Leader
American politician, 36th Governor of Pennsylvania
Served as the 36th Governor of Pennsylvania from 1955 to 1959. Played a significant role in enhancing education within the state. Worked to improve infrastructure and addressed public health issues during tenure. After leaving office, remained active in public life, contributing to various philanthropic efforts and maintaining a presence in state politics.
Served as Governor of Pennsylvania from 1955 to 1959
Advocated for educational reform
Focused on public health and infrastructure improvement
Other People Born on January 17th
Tabaré Vázquez
Uruguayan physician and politician
Born
January 17th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 80 years old
Served as President of Uruguay from 2005 to 2010 and again from 2015 to 2020. Vázquez was the first leftist president in Uruguay's history. Before his presidency, he held the position of mayor of Montevideo. Vázquez also had a medical career as an oncologist and was involved in health policy reforms during his political tenure. His administration focused on social policies, including healthcare and education reform. Vázquez passed away in 2020.
Continue ReadingAl Capone
American mob boss and gangster
Born
January 17th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1947 79 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1899, a prominent figure in organized crime during the Prohibition era in the United States. Operated out of Chicago, leading the South Side Italian gang. Involved in various illegal activities, including bootlegging and gambling. Led the Chicago Outfit, which became infamous for its violence and corruption. His criminal empire reached its peak in the 1920s, establishing significant control over illegal alcohol distribution and engaging in gang warfare. The law ultimately caught up, resulting in imprisonment for tax evasion in 1931. Died in 1947 from complications of syphilis, leaving a legacy intertwined with crime and American history.
Continue ReadingDwyane Wade
Professional basketball player and champion
Born
January 17th, 1982 44 years ago
Played for the Miami Heat in the NBA from 2003 to 2016, with a brief return in 2018. Achieved three NBA championships in 2006, 2012, and 2013. Selected to the All-Star team 13 times and earned the NBA Finals MVP award in 2006. After retiring, became an analyst on the television show 'Inside the NBA.' Established a philanthropic foundation and engaged in various business ventures.
Continue ReadingBrian Helgeland
Director and screenwriter of films.
Born
January 17th, 1961 65 years ago
A director, producer, and screenwriter, significant contributions include the adaptation of literary works into successful films. Wrote and directed the film 'Mystic River,' which won two Academy Awards. Authored the screenplay for 'L.A. Confidential,' recognized with an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. Directed films like '42,' depicting the life of Jackie Robinson, and 'The Noble Son.'
Continue ReadingGeorge Stigler
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 17th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1991 34 years ago — 80 years old
An American economist and academic, contributions focused on the fields of economics and industrial organization. Stigler's work explored market structures and the role of information in economics. He served as a professor at the University of Chicago and played a significant role in the development of the Chicago School of Economics. The achievements in his career culminated in receiving the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1982 for his research on the effects of market structure on economic performance.
Continue ReadingNicolae Iorga
Historian and Prime Minister of Romania
Born
January 17th, 1871 155 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1940 85 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent Romanian historian and politician served as the 34th Prime Minister of Romania. Contributed significantly to historical scholarship, particularly in Romanian history, literature, and culture. Held various academic positions and authored numerous works on history, literature, and political thought. His political career included leadership roles in different governments, reflecting shifts in political context throughout Romania's history. Engaged in international diplomacy and participated in various cultural and academic undertakings, fostering historical awareness and education.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 9th
Ottavio Missoni
Fashion designer and Olympic hurdler
Born
February 11th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
An Italian hurdler and fashion designer, founded a famous fashion brand that became synonymous with colorful knitwear and distinctive patterns. Competed in the 1948 London Olympics, finishing fifth in the 400-meter hurdles. Established the Missoni label with a focus on textile innovation and craftsmanship, leading to worldwide recognition. The brand's unique aesthetic resonated in both the fashion and home decor industries, influencing trends in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingObafemi Awolowo
Nigerian lawyer and politician
Born
March 6th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1987 38 years ago — 78 years old
A lawyer and politician played a significant role in Nigeria's independence movement and the country's early political landscape. Served as the Premier of the Western Region from 1954 to 1960, implementing numerous reforms in education and healthcare. Established the Action Group party and was a central figure in post-colonial Nigerian politics. Founded the University of Ife, promoting higher education in Nigeria. Became a key advocate for federalism and regional autonomy.
Continue ReadingFreddie Starr
Comedian, impressionist, and actor
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2019 6 years ago — 76 years old
Worked as a comedian, impressionist, singer, and actor in a career spanning several decades. Achieved fame in the 1970s and 1980s with appearances on television programs such as 'The Freddie Starr Show' and 'Celebrity Squares'. Gained recognition for his impersonations of famous personalities and had a distinctive comedic style that appealed to audiences. Released music singles, including 'It's All in the Game' and 'Let's Have a Party', which contributed to a varied career in entertainment.
Continue ReadingUlrike Meinhof
Militant and Red Army Faction co-founder
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1976 49 years ago — 42 years old
A journalist and militant, co-founded the Red Army Faction in West Germany. Initially gained attention through articles and critiques of German society. Advocated for revolutionary violence as a means to address perceived social injustices. Actively participated in various operations and was a prominent figure in leftist extremist circles during the 1970s. Arrested in 1972, while in custody, wrote extensively on her ideas before dying in prison in 1976.
Continue ReadingRobert Miles
Swiss-Italian DJ and trance music producer
Born
November 3rd, 1969 56 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2017 8 years ago — 47 years old
This Swiss-Italian DJ and producer gained prominence in the 1990s, particularly within the trance music genre. The single 'Children' released in 1996 became a global hit, characterized by its emotive melodies and innovative use of piano and synthesizers. The song topped charts in multiple countries and received several awards, establishing a lasting legacy in electronic music. Miles continued to release albums, including 'Dreamland' and '23am', which further showcased his distinctive sound. He was also involved in various projects and collaborations throughout his career, influencing the development of trance music in Europe and beyond.
Continue ReadingEdward W. Estlow
American football player and journalist
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 95 years old
Played professionally in American football and contributed to journalism. Had a career that included playing for teams in the early formation of the sport, spanning across several decades. Transitioned to a successful career in journalism, reporting on various sports topics and events, emphasizing the development of American football during its formative years.
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