Huey P. Newton
Co-founder of the Black Panther Party
Born
Died
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
United States
Links & References
Co-founded the Black Panther Party in 1966 in Oakland, California. Played a significant role in developing community programs addressing social issues. Engaged in advocacy for self-defense and civil rights for African Americans. Served as Minister of Defense within the organization, emphasizing the necessity of armed self-defense against police brutality. Received a degree in social philosophy while in prison.
Co-founded the Black Panther Party
Promoted community health programs
Authored various works on social justice
Other People Born on February 17th
Ruth Rendell
English crime writer and novelist
Born
February 17th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
An English author produced a substantial body of work in the crime and mystery genres. Noteworthy for the Inspector Wexford series, numerous standalone novels explored psychological and social themes. Achieved critical acclaim and commercial success for writing, winning several awards, including the Crime Writers' Association's Cartier Diamond Dagger and multiple Edgar Awards. Also recognized for contributions to literature and adapted works for television and film, enhancing the reach of the narratives beyond the page.
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Finnish composer known for symphonies
Born
February 17th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1947 78 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1887, a significant composer and music critic emerged from Finland. Studied at the Helsinki Music Institute and later in Germany. Contributed to the Finnish music scene during the early 20th century. Composed symphonic poems, operas, and choral works, blending Nordic folk music with classical forms. Notable compositions include the opera 'The Ostrobothnians' and several symphonies. Worked as a music critic and held various positions in Finnish music organizations. Died in 1947.
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Political Scientist and Realist Theorist
Born
February 17th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1980 45 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent political scientist and philosopher, contributions focused on political realism and international relations. Published influential works, including 'Politics Among Nations' which outlined core principles of realism. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Chicago. Offered insights into power dynamics and the nature of international politics during the Cold War era.
Continue ReadingAlan Bates
English actor in film and theater
Born
February 17th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2003 22 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1934, an English actor gained recognition for performances on stage and in film. Became associated with the Royal Shakespeare Company and starred in various notable productions. Achieved acclaim for the role in 'The Birthday Party' and performed in films such as 'Women in Love' and 'The Go-Between'. Received the Laurence Olivier Award for his work in theater, highlighting a significant contribution to the performing arts. In 1990, appeared in the television adaptation of 'The Old Man and the Sea', further demonstrating versatility across mediums.
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Mexican singer-songwriter and actor
Born
February 17th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2019 6 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in Latin music, this individual achieved fame as a singer-songwriter and actor. With a career spanning several decades, numerous albums were released, showcasing vocal prowess and emotional depth. The individual gained significant popularity in the 1970s and continued to influence generations of artists. The album 'El Triste' marked a pivotal moment, demonstrating exceptional vocal talent. Several television appearances, particularly in telenovelas, expanded reach and recognition, solidifying status as a cultural icon in Mexico and beyond.
Continue ReadingChaim Potok
Rabbi and author, 'The Chosen'
Born
February 17th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2002 23 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1929, a prominent American rabbi and author contributed significantly to Jewish literature. The works often explored themes of conflict between tradition and modernity. The novel 'The Chosen' focused on the friendship between two Jewish boys from different backgrounds, addressing broader issues of identity and faith. His writings frequently featured characters grappling with their religious beliefs and the cultural expectations of their communities. In addition to fiction, Potok also wrote essays and books on Jewish philosophy and identity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 22nd
Emperor Konoe of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Heian period
Born
June 16th, 1139 886 years ago
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August 22nd, 1155 870 years ago — 16 years old
Ruled as Emperor of Japan from 1142 until death in 1155. His reign took place during the Heian period, a time characterized by the flourishing of court culture and the establishment of the samurai class. The emperor's court was marked by a strong influence from the Fujiwara clan. His reign was notable for the emergence of various cultural advancements, particularly in literature and the arts. He was also involved in significant political intrigues and struggles for power, which set the stage for future conflicts in the country.
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Australian politician and Minister
Born
January 26th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1977 48 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a prominent Australian politician, primarily in the 1970s. Held the position of Minister for Minerals and Energy and was influential in promoting the Australian mining industry. Advocated for various policies concerning resource management and international trade in minerals. Represented the Labour Party and contributed to significant legislative advancements during his tenure.
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Television journalist and news anchor
Born
March 9th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1985 40 years ago — 42 years old
A prominent television journalist, served as the anchor of ABC's 'World News' from 2006 to 2011. Previously anchored 'Good Morning America' for over two decades, contributing significantly to morning news programming. Known for conducting high-profile interviews and moderating presidential debates.
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French novelist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 23rd, 1881 145 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1958 67 years ago — 77 years old
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Continue ReadingNina Bawden
English author of children's literature
Born
January 19th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
An author with a career spanning several decades, wrote numerous novels and children's books. Achieved recognition for works that often explore themes of childhood and personal growth. The novel 'Carrie's War' remains a significant contribution to children's literature and is widely studied in schools. Additionally, contributed to adult literature with several acclaimed novels. Active in literary circles and participated in various community literary projects.
Continue ReadingAnders Zorn
Swedish painter and etcher, 'Summer Night'
Born
February 18th, 1860 166 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1920 105 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent Swedish artist, focused on painting, etching, and sculpture. Gained recognition for vivid portraits and depictions of Swedish landscapes. Mastered the technique of watercolor and oil painting, exhibiting a mastery of light and color. Worked in various styles, but primarily associated with naturalism. Contributed to the beauty of Swedish culture through art and was influential in the resurgence of portrait painting during the late 19th century. Received numerous accolades, including medal honors at international exhibitions.
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