Hank Williams

American country music singer-songwriter

Hank Williams - American country music singer-songwriter
Born

September 17th, 1923
101 years ago

Died

January 1st, 1953
72 years ago — 29 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An influential figure in country music, he gained prominence in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Williams wrote and recorded numerous hits that have become standards in the genre. His career was marked by personal struggles, which often reflected in his music. He died at a young age, but his legacy continued to grow long after his passing. Posthumously, several of his songs have been covered and celebrated by artists across multiple generations, solidifying his status as a pioneering talent in American music.

Wrote iconic songs like 'Your Cheatin' Heart'

Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1961

Established the honky-tonk style of country music

Other People Born on September 17th

Luís Amado

Portuguese politician and diplomat
Born
September 17th, 1953 71 years ago

Served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2006 to 2011, holding a key role in shaping Portugal's foreign policy during a period of significant international events. Played an integral part in the European Union's diplomacy and cooperation initiatives. Was involved in various international negotiations and represented Portugal at numerous high-level meetings and summits. His tenure contributed to enhancing Portugal's profile within the EU and on the global stage.

Continue Reading

Frederick Corbett

British officer and Victoria Cross recipient
Born
September 17th, 1853 171 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1853, this British officer served during the military campaigns of the late 19th century. His bravery was illustrated during the Second Anglo-Afghan War when he performed acts of valor that distinguished him among his peers. His exemplary conduct in battle led to receiving the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor for bravery in the face of the enemy in the United Kingdom. Post-military life included various roles reflecting dedication to serving the nation.

Continue Reading

Maria Luisa of Savoy

Queen of Spain, wife of Philip V
Born
September 17th, 1688 336 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1714 311 years ago — 25 years old

Maria Luisa of Savoy served as queen consort of Spain through her marriage to King Philip V. Born into the House of Savoy, she married Philip in 1701 and played a significant role in the court. The couple had several children, contributing to the Bourbon dynasty's stability. Her tenure as queen was also marked by a focus on the arts and the development of Spanish culture. Maria Luisa's health began to decline later in life, and she died in 1714.

Continue Reading

Shawn Horcoff

Ice hockey player and Oilers captain
Born
September 17th, 1978 46 years ago

Played professional ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Edmonton Oilers. Drafted 99th overall by the Oilers in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. Served as the team captain from 2010 to 2013, contributing to the team's strategies and leadership on the ice. Competed internationally for Canada, contributing to the national team's successes in various tournaments.

Continue Reading

Mena Massoud

Egyptian-Canadian actor known for Aladdin
Born
September 17th, 1991 33 years ago

Born in Cairo and raised in Canada, this actor gained prominence for portraying Aladdin in the live-action adaptation of Disney's classic animated film. The role showcased significant vocal and physical performance skills, leading to a wider audience recognition. In addition to Aladdin, involvement in various television series has marked his career, including a lead role in the Amazon series 'Jack Ryan'. The dedication to supporting diverse storytelling in film and television is also highlighted through advocacy for his heritage and representation.

Continue Reading

Periyar E. V. Ramasamy

Indian social activist and politician
Born
September 17th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 94 years old

A businessman and social reformer, significantly contributed to societal reforms and championed the rights of marginalized communities in India. Advocated for rationalism, self-respect, and the dismantling of the caste system. Founded the Self-Respect Movement to empower the oppressed and promote equality. Involved in politics, established the Dravidar Kazhagam party, which focused on promoting Dravidian identity and welfare. Focused on women's rights and education, working to improve the status of women in society.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 1st

Heinrich Hertz

German physicist, radio wave pioneer
Born
February 22nd, 1857 168 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1894 131 years ago — 36 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism and wave theory. Conducted experiments in 1887 that proved the existence of electromagnetic waves, thus laying the groundwork for radio technology. Hertz's work verified James Clerk Maxwell's theories and demonstrated properties of waves, such as reflection, refraction, and polarization. Developed apparatus that generated and detected radio waves, furthering the understanding of wireless communication. The unit of frequency, hertz, is named in his honor, reflecting his contributions to the field.

Continue Reading

Don Larsen

Baseball player, perfect game pitcher
Born
August 7th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2020 5 years ago — 90 years old

An American baseball player achieved prominence as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the New York Yankees, notable for throwing a perfect game in the 1956 World Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers. This achievement remains a significant highlight in World Series history, marking the only perfect game ever pitched in the Series. After his stellar performance in 1956, spent time with other teams such as the Chicago White Sox and the Kansas City Athletics before retiring from professional baseball.

Continue Reading

Willie Keeler

Baseball player and batting champion
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1923 102 years ago — 51 years old

An American baseball player played mainly as an outfielder. Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1892 and played until 1910. Achieved high batting averages throughout career and led the National League with a batting average of .432 in 1897. Was a member of the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Highlanders, contributing to team success during tenure. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939.

Continue Reading

Nay Win Maung

Burmese physician and activist
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 50 years old

A physician and businessman active in Myanmar, focused on healthcare reforms. Advocated for patient rights and medical education. Engaged in various civic activities aimed at improving public health and welfare. Contributed to the establishment of healthcare programs that addressed rural health issues. Held multiple roles in medical associations and worked to raise awareness about health policy.

Continue Reading

Juanita Moore

American actress with Oscar nomination
Born
October 19th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 99 years old

Acted in numerous films and television shows throughout a lengthy career. Gained recognition for a performance in the film 'Imitation of Life' (1959), which explored themes of race and motherhood. Appeared in various other projects, including the television series 'Perry Mason' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'Imitation of Life'.

Continue Reading

William Lloyd Standish

United States District Judge
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old

Appointed as a United States District Judge, served on the bench for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Provided significant rulings on various federal cases during tenure. Held a distinguished career in the judiciary, contributing to the legal system and its development in the region. Worked prior as a law clerk and engaged in private legal practice before judicial appointment.

Continue Reading