Heinz Guderian
German general and military strategist
A German general and military strategist, contributed significantly to armored warfare during World War II. Developed the concept of Blitzkrieg, which emphasized speed and coordination between different military branches. Commanded the 2nd Panzer Division during the invasion of France, demonstrating effective use of tanks in rapid assaults. Participated in major operations on the Eastern Front and later served as a military adviser to various army groups.
Pioneered the concept of Blitzkrieg
Commanded the 2nd Panzer Division
Authored the book "A Tank on the Battlefront"
Other People Born on June 17th
John Amis
English journalist and music critic
Born
June 17th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent journalist and critic, contributed extensively to the fields of music and the arts. Played a significant role in the development of music criticism in the UK. Was a regular contributor to The Observer and worked for several other publications, providing insights and critiques on various performers and composers. Authored books that explored musical topics and the evolution of music over time. Engaged with an audience through lectures and broadcasts, fostering a deeper understanding of music.
Continue ReadingBobby 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 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 ReadingMaria Izilda de Castro Ribeiro
Brazilian popular saint
Born
June 17th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1911 115 years ago — 14 years old
Born on June 17, 1897, a Brazilian girl became a popular saint within the Catholic Church. Devotion centered around her life and virtues spread throughout Brazil, influencing many. Known for her piety and kindness, she garnered a significant following among the faithful. Several miracles and instances of healing were attributed to her intercession, contributing to her veneration and recognition as a saint by local communities. Her story reflects faith and spirituality in Brazilian culture, continuing to inspire devotion.
Continue ReadingPatrice Tardif
Canadian farmer and politician
Born
June 17th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1989 36 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1904, a Canadian politician and farmer served in various political roles throughout the mid-20th century. His political career included significant contributions to agricultural policies that affected rural communities. Active in local governance, advocated for farmers' rights and emphasized the importance of agriculture in economic development. His leadership extended to municipal and provincial levels, shaping policies that benefited agricultural sectors. Commitment to public service and agriculture helped establish a legacy in his region, promoting sustainable farming practices.
Continue ReadingMartin Dillon
American tenor and educator
Born
June 17th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 48 years old
An accomplished tenor who gained recognition in the classical music scene, particularly in concert performances and operatic productions. Served as a dedicated educator, sharing expertise and mentoring students in vocal performance. Contributions to various music festivals and educational initiatives enriched the musical community. Collaborated with esteemed orchestras and ensembles throughout a prolific career, showcasing talent in diverse repertoires. Notable for performances that embraced both traditional and contemporary compositions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 14th
Emanuel Raymond Lewis
American librarian and author
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
Established a prominent career in librarianship and literature. Worked at various libraries, contributing significantly to the field of library science. Authored multiple influential texts, focusing on library practices and the profession. Contributed to the development of library education programs and promoted the importance of public libraries in communities.
Continue ReadingRobert Stack
American actor and television star
Born
January 13th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2003 22 years ago — 84 years old
An actor with a career spanning several decades, recognized for roles in film and television. Starred in the iconic television series 'The Untouchables' as Eliot Ness, which aired from 1959 to 1963. Additionally, provided the narrational voice for the television series 'Unsolved Mysteries' from 1987 to 2002, contributing to its popularity. Appeared in various films, including 'The High and the Mighty' and 'Airplane!', showcasing a range of talent from drama to comedy. Earned an Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1960 for performances in television dramas. Had a significant presence in Hollywood, respected for both dramatic and comedic roles.
Continue ReadingDarwyn Cooke
Writer and artist, graphic novels.
Born
November 16th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2016 9 years ago — 53 years old
A Canadian writer and artist specialized in graphic novels and comic books, creating a distinct style that garnered critical acclaim. Achievements included work on 'DC: The New Frontier', a celebrated miniseries that adapted the character of Green Lantern and showcased the early days of the Justice League. Also contributed to various projects for DC Comics and other publishers, affecting the direction of the medium with innovative storytelling and art. Recognized for a unique blend of design and narrative that influenced contemporary comic artistry.
Continue ReadingPierre-Claude Nivelle de La Chaussée
Playwright with significant contributions
Born
February 14th, 1692 333 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1754 271 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent French playwright in the 18th century, contributed significantly to the genre of comedy. Authored several plays that showcased the evolution of French theater. Pioneered the comic drama format, blending humor with serious themes. His works laid the groundwork for future developments in French theatrical literature.
Continue ReadingWillem Drees
Dutch Prime Minister (1948-1958)
Born
July 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1988 37 years ago — 101 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1948 to 1958. Played a significant role in post-war reconstruction and economic recovery. Led the Labour Party and was a key figure in Dutch politics during the period of rebuilding after World War II. Oversaw social reforms and the establishment of the welfare state in the Netherlands, contributing to the modernization of Dutch society.
Continue ReadingTom Wolfe
Journalist and author of 'The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test'
Born
March 2nd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2018 7 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent American journalist and author, this individual played a significant role in the development of New Journalism, combining literary techniques with traditional reporting. The work featured vivid storytelling and immersive reporting, often exploring counterculture and social issues in America during the 1960s and 1970s. Books such as 'The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test' chronicled the experiences of Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters, using a narrative style that blurred the lines between fiction and non-fiction. The author also published 'The Right Stuff', which focused on the early days of the U.S. space program and the test pilots involved. This individual received numerous accolades for literary contributions, cementing a legacy within American literature.
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