J. R. Jayewardene
Sri Lankan politician, 2nd President
Served as the second President of Sri Lanka from 1978 to 1989. Was a prominent lawyer prior to his presidency and played a significant role in shaping the country's political landscape. Implemented economic reforms that transitioned Sri Lanka towards a more open economic policy. Was a member of the United National Party and held various ministerial positions before assuming the presidency. Contributed to the establishment of a new constitution that provided greater executive powers to the presidency.
Served as President from 1978 to 1989
Implemented significant economic reforms
Established a new constitution with enhanced executive powers
Other People Born on September 17th
Vincenzo Tommasini
Italian composer of orchestral music
Born
September 17th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1950 75 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Italy in 1878, this composer focused on orchestral and chamber music. He studied at the Milan Conservatory and later worked in various capacities including conductor and teacher. His compositions were performed in concerts throughout Italy and beyond, showcasing his talent in symphonic and operatic music. The composer contributed significantly to the musical landscape of his time, establishing a reputation for his orchestration skills and melodic style.
Continue ReadingI. L. Patterson
American politician, 18th Governor of Oregon
Born
September 17th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1929 96 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 18th Governor of Oregon from 1927 to 1931. Prior held the position of state treasurer and was active in state politics. During tenure as governor, focused on economic issues and the state's infrastructure. Advocated for policies that addressed the challenges faced by Oregon during the late 1920s and early 1930s. Engaged in efforts to modernize state government operations and improved relations with various interest groups within the state.
Continue ReadingNick Cordero
Canadian actor and singer in musicals
Born
September 17th, 1978 47 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2020 5 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1978, this Canadian actor and singer gained prominence in the Broadway scene. Major roles included 'Cheech' in 'Bullets Over Broadway', which earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. Other prominent performances occurred in productions such as 'A Bronx Tale' and 'Waitress'. In addition to theater, Cordero appeared in television series, including 'Blue Bloods' and 'L.A. Law'. Recognized for a powerful singing voice and strong stage presence, he contributed significantly to musical theater until his untimely passing in 2020.
Continue ReadingOrlando Cepeda
Baseball player, 1967 NL MVP
Born
September 17th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Puerto Rico, a baseball player achieved prominence in Major League Baseball, playing primarily as a first baseman and outfielder. Debuted in 1958 with the San Francisco Giants and became a critical part of the team. Won the National League Most Valuable Player Award in 1967 while playing for the St. Louis Cardinals. Helped lead the Cardinals to a World Series championship in 1967. The player was selected for the All-Star Game multiple times during a successful career that lasted nearly two decades. After retirement, contributed to baseball through various roles, including coaching and mentoring young players.
Continue ReadingKen Kesey
American novelist 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'
Born
September 17th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2001 24 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent figure in American literature, this individual gained fame as a novelist and essayist during the 1960s. 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest', published in 1962, stands as a significant work of contemporary fiction and was adapted into an award-winning film in 1975. The novel critiqued the psychiatric system and explored themes of individuality and authority. In addition to fiction, contributions to the genre of counterculture writing were notable with the work 'Sometimes a Great Notion'. He was also associated with the Merry Pranksters, a group that promoted psychedelic culture and may have inspired the later events of the 1960s. This individual actively participated in the exploration of consciousness through various means, adding to the literary and cultural dialogue of the era.
Continue ReadingYuji Naka
Video game designer, created Sonic
Born
September 17th, 1965 60 years ago
A prominent video game designer, played a significant role in the creation and development of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. Began career at Sega, where contributions to numerous titles cemented his place in gaming history. Served as director and programmer for various projects, influencing the evolution of platform games. Established his own company after leaving Sega, focusing on new game developments utilizing innovative designs and technologies.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 1st
David of Trebizond
Philosopher and scholar of Trebizond
Born
1408 617 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1461 564 years ago — 53 years old
A significant figure during the Renaissance, primarily associated with the Eastern Orthodox Church. Contributed to the revival of classical thoughts and humanism in the Byzantine Empire. Held the title of Emperor of Trebizond, ruling from 1459 until death in 1461. Engaged in various scholarly pursuits, including philosophy and theology, influencing intellectual discussions of the time. His reign marked a critical period in the region's history, amidst growing Ottoman power. Unable to sustain the empire against invasions, faced challenges to maintain sovereignty and stability.
Continue ReadingGisbertus Voetius
Dutch theologian and academic
Born
March 3rd, 1589 436 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1676 349 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent Dutch minister and theologian, engaged in theological education and debate during the early 17th century. Played a significant role in the development of Reformed theology in the Netherlands. Served as a professor at Utrecht University where he influenced many students and scholars. Contributed extensively to theological literature and is recognized for his works on various theological topics, including practical theology and church governance.
Continue ReadingDixie Lee
Actress and singer in musical films
Born
November 4th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1952 73 years ago — 40 years old
Born in 1911, an American actress and singer gained prominence during the 1930s. Achieved recognition for performances in musical films, particularly in 'Hollywood Hotel' and 'The West Point Story'. Became an accomplished vocalist, becoming a part of various radio shows and performances that showcased her talents. Also known for her marriage to Bing Crosby, which attracted media attention.
Continue ReadingAgustín García Calvo
Philosopher and Poet from Spain
Born
October 15th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1926, a Spanish philosopher and poet focused on themes of language, existence, and ethics. Engaged in the philosophical landscape through critical writings and public discourse. Wrote extensively on the nature of language and its implications for thought and society. His poetic works reflect a deep introspection and exploration of the human condition, using a unique style that combined traditional and modern elements.
Continue ReadingAlfred Jarry
French playwright, creator of Ubu Roi
Born
September 8th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1907 118 years ago — 34 years old
An influential French author and playwright, created the play 'Ubu Roi' which premiered in 1896. This work is noted for its avant-garde style and satirical content, contributing to the development of modernist theater. Jarry also wrote several other plays and works that reflected his unique aesthetic and philosophical ideas. His innovative use of language and unconventional plot structures paved the way for future experimental theater movements.
Continue ReadingGiulio Romano
Italian painter and architect of Palazzo del Te
Born
1499 526 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1546 479 years ago — 47 years old
Active during the Renaissance, worked as a painter and architect, focusing on the Mannerist style. Apprenticed with Raphael and later succeeded him in his workshop. Designed the Palazzo del Te in Mantua, exemplifying Mannerist architecture. His distinctive use of perspective and dramatic compositions influenced the evolution of Baroque art.
Continue Reading