Harry Patch
English soldier and firefighter
Participated in World War I as a soldier in the British Army and served in the Battle of Passchendaele. After the war, worked as a firefighter and later became a vocal advocate for peace, sharing experiences from the trenches. Lived to the age of 111, becoming the last surviving British soldier from World War I.
Survived the Battle of Passchendaele in WWI
Advocated for peace during later life
Became the oldest British soldier in history
Other People Born on June 17th
Bobby Farrelly
Film director and screenwriter of comedies
Born
June 17th, 1958 67 years ago
An American director, producer, and screenwriter achieved prominence through collaborations with brother Peter Farrelly. Directed and co-wrote films, establishing a reputation in comedy. Best recognized for the film 'There's Something About Mary', which became a box office hit. Other notable works include 'Dumb and Dumber' and 'Me, Myself & Irene'.
Continue ReadingAmari Cooper
American football wide receiver, Pro Bowler
Born
June 17th, 1994 31 years ago
A wide receiver excelled in the National Football League (NFL), starting a career with the Oakland Raiders after being selected fourth overall in the 2015 NFL Draft. Played for the Dallas Cowboys after a mid-season trade in 2018. Accumulated multiple Pro Bowl selections and set franchise records for receptions and receiving yards. Contributed significantly to team playoff appearances and was a key player in pivotal games.
Continue ReadingCarl Hermann
Physicist and academic focused on spectroscopy
Born
June 17th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1961 64 years ago — 63 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in spectroscopy and crystal structure analysis. Conducted pioneering research that advanced the understanding of crystal growth and properties. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing generations of physicists through both teaching and research. Published numerous scientific papers and books that became essential references in the field of solid-state physics.
Continue ReadingMartin Bormann
German politician and Nazi leader
Born
June 17th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1945 80 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1900 in Germany, held a prominent role within the Nazi Party. Served as head of the Party Chancellery and was a close confidant of Adolf Hitler. Managed the internal affairs of the party and played a key role in the administration during World War II. Influenced various policies and decisions during the era, establishing himself as a powerful figure within the regime.
Continue ReadingRed Foley
Country singer and songwriter
Born
June 17th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1968 57 years ago — 58 years old
An influential figure in country music, this individual gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. He recorded numerous hits and helped popularize the genre through performances on radio and television. Key achievements include hosting the Grand Ole Opry and having a successful career as a recording artist. Various albums featured standout tracks that contributed to the growth of country music during that era.
Continue ReadingThomas Haden Church
Actor, known for 'Sideways' and 'Wings'
Born
June 17th, 1960 65 years ago
An American actor engaged in television and film. Early career included cast roles in the television series 'Wings', playing Lowell Mather from 1990 to 1997. Gained recognition for the role in the critically acclaimed film 'Sideways' in 2004, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Highlighted in further projects, including roles in 'Spider-Man 3' and 'George of the Jungle'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 25th
John Schlesinger
English film director of Midnight Cowboy
Born
February 16th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2003 22 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent English film director, active in the industry from the 1960s to the 2000s. Directed the acclaimed film 'Midnight Cowboy,' which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1970. Worked in both film and television, with a career that also included direction of 'The Day of the Locust' and 'Marathon Man.' Received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Director for 'Midnight Cowboy.'
Continue ReadingEzra Fleischer
Romanian-Israeli poet and philologist
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2006 19 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Romania, a poet and philologist contributed significantly to Hebrew literature. Emigrated to Israel, where involvement in academia and literature flourished. Published critical works and poetry, exploring themes of identity and culture. His scholarly work focused on Hebrew poetry and medieval texts. Served as a professor at Bar-Ilan University, influencing generations of students.
Continue ReadingRandy Pausch
Author and educator, The Last Lecture
Born
October 23rd, 1960 65 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2008 17 years ago — 47 years old
Delivered a widely viewed lecture titled 'Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams' at Carnegie Mellon University. Authored the book 'The Last Lecture', which served as a memoir and reflection on life lessons after being diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. Contributions to the field of computer science education, especially in creating a curriculum that integrates virtual reality and programming concepts for students.
Continue ReadingR. S. Gavai
Indian politician, 18th Governor of Kerala
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in India, holding significant positions in both legal and governmental sectors. Acted as the 18th Governor of Kerala from 2004 to 2006 during a critical period in the state's political landscape. Held various roles within the Indian Congress Party, contributing to state and national politics over several decades. In addition to political roles, engaged in legal practices, influencing judicial matters in Maharashtra. Credentials include advocacy for various legal reforms and participation in legislative discussions.
Continue ReadingPaul Sorvino
American actor and singer, starred in 'Goodfellas'
Born
April 13th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2022 3 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor and singer, this individual gained recognition for his roles in film and television. Best known for portraying Paulie Cicero in the classic crime film 'Goodfellas', he also featured in productions such as 'The Rockford Files' and 'Law & Order'. In addition to acting, the individual pursued a career in music, releasing albums that showcased a deep passion for opera and jazz. The work in both fields showcased a significant range of talent and commitment to the arts.
Continue ReadingSamuel Taylor Coleridge
English Poet and Literary Critic
Born
October 21st, 1772 253 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1834 191 years ago — 61 years old
This individual was an influential English poet, philosopher, and critic during the Romantic era. Early works included 'Lyrical Ballads,' co-authored with William Wordsworth, which played a significant role in the development of modern poetry. A major contribution was 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,' noted for its emotional depth and exploration of nature and the human condition. Coleridge also developed the concept of the 'suspension of disbelief,' which became foundational in literary criticism. His extensive philosophical writings engaged with topics ranging from metaphysics to ethics, influencing future generations of thinkers and writers.
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