Hans Ruesch

Swiss racing driver and author

Hans Ruesch - Swiss racing driver and author
Born

May 17th, 1913
112 years ago

Died

2007
18 years ago — 94 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Switzerland

Links & References

A Swiss racing driver and author, he participated in various Grand Prix races during the 1950s, including the Mille Miglia and the Formula One World Championship. Later, he became an author and wrote books focusing on animal rights and the critique of the medical establishment. His transition from racing to writing showcased a commitment to advocacy through literature, exploring themes of ethics and health. He also competed in the 1952 season of Formula One, contributing to the motorsport scene before shifting focus to his literary career.

Competed in the Mille Miglia

Participated in Formula One

Authored books on animal rights

Other People Born on May 17th

Marshall Applewhite

Cult leader and founder of Heaven's Gate
Born
May 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 66 years old

A cult leader founded the religious group Heaven's Gate in the 1970s. The group combined elements of Christian theology with beliefs in extraterrestrial life. Applewhite led followers in embracing a belief system that proposed spiritual ascension and the possibility of physical transformation into non-human beings. In 1997, the group gained notoriety when 39 members died in a mass suicide in California, believing they would transition to an extraterrestrial spacecraft following the Hale-Bopp comet.

Continue Reading

Marcia Freedman

Israeli activist and politician
Born
May 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1938, involvement in social and political activism characterized this individual's career. Significant contributions included participation in the women's rights movement and advocacy for peace initiatives within Israel. Served as a member of the Knesset, representing significant political ideologies and engaging in public discourse on issues affecting women and society. Worked with various organizations to promote social justice and equality, contributing to legislative changes and awareness.

Continue Reading

Ben Nelson

American politician, 37th Governor of Nebraska
Born
May 17th, 1941 84 years ago

Served as the 37th Governor of Nebraska from 1991 to 1999. Held the position of President of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Represented Nebraska in the U.S. Senate from 2001 to 2013. Focused on health care and agricultural issues during tenure in the Senate.

Continue Reading

Kevin Kingston

Rugby league player at Penrith Panthers
Born
May 17th, 1983 42 years ago

A rugby league player with a professional career spanning over a decade. Played predominantly as a hooker. Represented the Penrith Panthers in the National Rugby League (NRL) and contributed to the team's performance during his tenure. Joined the Panthers in 2003 and played until 2012, demonstrating consistent skills and knowledge of the game. Also played for the Cronulla Sharks and had stints in lower grade teams throughout his career. Kingston's contributions extended to representative selections, showcasing talent at various levels of competition.

Continue Reading

Zinka Milanov

Soprano recognized for opera performances
Born
May 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1989 36 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Croatia, a celebrated soprano gained acclaim in the opera world, with a career that spanned several decades. Milanov trained at the Zagreb Academy of Music before moving to the United States. She made a significant impact at the Metropolitan Opera, where she performed numerous leading roles from the 1940s through the 1960s. Aside from opera, she contributed to the field of vocal education, sharing expertise with aspiring singers. Milanov's vocal artistry and dramatic presence won her a dedicated following and a notable reputation within classical music circles.

Continue Reading

Matt Ryan

American football quarterback 2016 MVP
Born
May 17th, 1985 40 years ago

Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the Atlanta Falcons. Achieved significant success, including leading the Falcons to Super Bowl LI in 2017. Received the NFL Most Valuable Player award in 2016 after an outstanding season where he threw for 9,117 yards and 69 touchdowns over two seasons. Named to multiple Pro Bowls and recognized for consistent performance and leadership on the field.

Continue Reading