Graeme Le Saux
Footballer and sports commentator
Played as a left-back in professional football, beginning a career at Chelsea. Achieved significant recognition at Blackburn Rovers, contributing to the team's Premier League title in the 1994-1995 season. Later had a spell at Southampton before retiring. After retirement, transitioned into a career in sports broadcasting, offering insights and commentary on football matches.
Won the Premier League with Blackburn Rovers
Played for Chelsea and Southampton
Other People Born on October 17th
Doris Humphrey
Dancer and choreographer of modern dance
Born
October 17th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1958 66 years ago — 63 years old
A leading figure in modern dance, created significant works that shaped the genre. Developed the technique of fall and recovery, emphasizing the use of gravity in movement. Co-founded the Humphrey-Weidman Company and was a pivotal influence in the establishment of modern dance as an art form. Served as a teacher and mentor to many dancers, contributing to the development of future generations in the field.
Continue ReadingKenji Miyamoto
Japanese politician and government leader
Born
October 17th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2007 18 years ago — 98 years old
Began political career in the Japanese Diet and held various important governmental positions. Contributed to significant legislative reforms and policies throughout the mid-20th century. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to strengthen Japan's international relations. Retired from active politics but remained influential in advisory roles.
Continue ReadingEvel Knievel
Motorcycle stuntman and daredevil
Born
October 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old
Evel Knievel was an American motorcycle rider and stuntman recognized for performing thrilling stunts and jumps. Gaining fame in the 1960s and 1970s, achieved widespread popularity with the televised jump over 13 buses at Wembley Stadium in 1975. Known for his charismatic persona, Knievel's stunts included jumping over the Snake River Canyon in 1974, which garnered significant media attention. Injuries from various jumps shaped his career but did not deter his pursuit of adventure.
Continue ReadingJerry Siegel
Comic book writer & co-creator of Superman
Born
October 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1996 29 years ago — 81 years old
An author and illustrator, contributed to the comic book industry through the creation of Superman, one of the most iconic characters in popular culture. Collaborated with Joe Shuster to develop the character in the early 1930s, which led to the first Superman comic book published in Action Comics #1 in 1938. The character's immense popularity established the superhero genre and influenced countless comic book creators. Worked for several publishers over the years and engaged in various legal battles regarding authorship rights.
Continue ReadingRichard 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 Reading