Howard Ashman
Playwright and composer of musical theatre
A prominent playwright and lyricist, contributions included crafting the lyrics for beloved Disney animated films. Collaborated with Alan Menken on productions that achieved significant acclaim. Worked on projects such as 'The Little Mermaid', 'Beauty and the Beast', and 'Aladdin', leaving a lasting impact on musical theatre. Ashman's work was characterized by poignant lyrics and memorable melodies.
Wrote lyrics for 'The Little Mermaid'
Wrote lyrics for 'Beauty and the Beast'
Wrote lyrics for 'Aladdin'
Other People Born on May 17th
Erik Satie
French composer known for Gymnopédies
Born
May 17th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1925 100 years ago — 59 years old
Pianist and composer contributed significantly to the early 20th century music scene. Satie's compositions were marked by their unique tonality and innovative approach to harmony. His most famous works include the 'Gymnopédies', which showcased minimalist and atmospheric qualities. Additionally, Satie engaged in collaborations with other artists and was involved in the Dada and Surrealist movements, influencing subsequent generations of composers and musicians.
Continue ReadingChris Henry
American football wide receiver
Born
May 17th, 1983 42 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 26 years old
Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the Cincinnati Bengals. Drafted in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft, made significant contributions during his time with the team. Best seasons included 2006 and 2009, where showcased talent in receptions and touchdown receptions. Known for his speed and catching ability, developed a reputation for being a deep threat in the Bengals' offense. Tragically passed away in 2009, leaving behind a legacy of athleticism on the field.
Continue ReadingNewton Moore
Australian politician, Premier of WA
Born
May 17th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1936 89 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 8th Premier of Western Australia from 1910 to 1911. Represented the Liberal Party in the Western Australian Legislative Assembly. Contributed to the development of infrastructure in the state, including railways and roads. Played a significant role in the politics of Western Australia during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingChristian Bolaños
Costa Rican footballer and national team player
Born
May 17th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional footballer from Costa Rica, contributions included significant stints in both domestic and international leagues. Played primarily as a winger, spending time at clubs such as Saprissa, where multiple league titles were secured. Gained experience in international competitions, representing the national team with appearances in the FIFA World Cup and CONCACAF Gold Cup. Known for speed and skill on the ball, which helped elevate team performance during crucial matches.
Continue ReadingPassenger
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
May 17th, 1984 41 years ago
Born in England, this individual gained prominence as a singer-songwriter and musician. The career began in 2007 with the release of the debut album. Achieved significant recognition with the single 'Let Her Go', which topped charts internationally. The style blends folk and acoustic elements, appealing to a broad audience. Continued to release multiple albums, showcasing a distinctive voice and storytelling ability.
Continue ReadingChristine Ohuruogu
Olympic Gold Medalist Runner
Born
May 17th, 1984 41 years ago
A prominent runner specialized in the 400 meters. Won the gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and also secured a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Achieved significant success at the World Championships, securing multiple titles and medals throughout the career. Competed for Great Britain in various international competitions, achieving personal bests and establishing a reputation as a leading athlete in the discipline.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 14th
Carl Ritter von Ghega
Italian engineer, Semmering railway architect
Born
January 10th, 1802 224 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1860 165 years ago — 58 years old
An Italian engineer was instrumental in the design of the Semmering railway, one of the first mountain railways in the world. This engineering feat, completed in 1854, distinctly showcased innovative construction techniques adapted for challenging terrains. The railway became a pivotal development in railway transportation, connecting the regions of Vienna and Trieste, and significantly contributed to the expansion of the rail network in Europe during the 19th century. His work also influenced subsequent civil engineering projects in mountainous areas.
Continue ReadingQuintino Sella
Italian economist and finance minister
Born
1827 199 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1884 141 years ago — 57 years old
An influential economist and politician, served as the Italian Minister of Finances. Played a crucial role in the formation of public finance policy in post-unification Italy. Contributed to the development of the Italian tax system and promoted fiscal reforms during his time in office. Advocated for economic modernization and investment in infrastructure, particularly in the railway sector.
Continue ReadingScott Hall
Professional wrestler and WWE Hall of Famer
Born
October 20th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2022 3 years ago — 63 years old
A professional wrestler with a significant career spanning multiple decades. Utilized the ring name Razor Ramon during tenure with World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Pioneered the use of the 'bad guy' persona in wrestling. Helped form the New World Order (nWo) stable in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), which revolutionized wrestling storylines. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2014, recognized for contributions to the wrestling industry.
Continue ReadingZita of Bourbon-Parma
Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary
Born
May 9th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1989 36 years ago — 96 years old
Held the title of Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, serving during a tumultuous time marked by World War I. Zita became the last Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary from the House of Habsburg. After the defeat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, went into exile alongside her family. Spent years in Switzerland and other countries before returning to Austria for a visit in 1987. Died in 1989 at the age of 96, remembered for her commitment to her family's legacy and work during crises.
Continue ReadingSusan Hayward
American actress and Academy Award winner
Born
June 30th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1975 50 years ago — 57 years old
An American actress, recognized for performances in films during the mid-20th century. Gained acclaim for roles in motion pictures such as 'I'll Cry Tomorrow' and 'Where Love Has Gone'. Earned an Academy Award for Best Actress for the film 'I Want to Live!' in 1958. Had a successful career spanning over three decades, featuring numerous nominations and several wins at prestigious award ceremonies. Transitioned from stage to film, establishing a prominent presence in Hollywood.
Continue ReadingWilliam Alfred Fowler
Physicist and astronomer, Nobel laureate
Born
August 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1995 30 years ago — 83 years old
Accomplished physicist and astronomer focused on nuclear processes and stellar evolution. Contributed to understanding nucleosynthesis, the formation of elements in stars. Played a significant role in advancing astrophysics through research and education. Served as a professor at the California Institute of Technology and shared insights through numerous publications. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1983 for contributions to elucidating stellar nucleosynthesis and processes occurring in the universe.
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