James Coyne
Canadian banker, 2nd Governor of the Bank of Canada
Served as the 2nd Governor of the Bank of Canada from 1955 to 1961. Played a key role in shaping Canadian monetary policy during a period of economic change. After his tenure at the Bank, contributed to the financial sector as a lawyer and banker. Influenced banking practices and policies within Canada, establishing a legacy in the nation's financial system.
Served as Governor of the Bank of Canada
Contributed to Canadian monetary policy
Other People Born on July 17th
Ephraim Shay
Engineer who designed Shay locomotive
Born
July 17th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1916 109 years ago — 76 years old
An engineer developed the Shay locomotive, a type of steam engine that proved vital for logging and freight transport on mountainous terrain. This innovative design featured a unique gear-driven system, providing better traction and stability on steep grades. The Shay locomotive became widely used in the timber industry, significantly impacting the efficiency of lumber transport. The manufacturing of Shay locomotives continued long after the initial design, with production spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingJohn Jacob Astor
Businessman and fur trader
Born
July 17th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1848 177 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent businessman, built a fortune primarily through the fur trade in North America during the early 19th century. Established the American Fur Company in 1808, which became the largest fur trading business in the United States. Invested in real estate in New York City, contributing significantly to the city's development. Astor was a key figure in the early American economy, known for his role in the expansion of the fur industry and real estate ventures. His wealth made him one of the first multimillionaires in the United States.
Continue ReadingErle Stanley Gardner
American lawyer and author of Perry Mason
Born
July 17th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1970 55 years ago — 80 years old
Practiced law while writing pulp fiction. Created the character Perry Mason, a defense attorney appearing in a series of detective novels. The character became the basis for a successful television series. Also wrote under various pseudonyms and produced numerous other works, including thrillers and mysteries. Garnered popularity for courtroom drama and intricate plots.
Continue ReadingGordon Gould
Physicist and laser inventor
Born
July 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old
An American physicist and academic, contributed to the field of optics and photonics. Invented the laser in the 1950s and coined the term 'laser', standing for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Although the invention faced patent disputes, secured a patent in 1977 after several legal battles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingCory Doctorow
Author and activist focused on digital rights
Born
July 17th, 1971 54 years ago
An author and activist, contributed extensively to discussions on technology, copyright, and digital rights. Founded the website Boing Boing and served as a co-editor of the site. Wrote several novels, including 'Little Brother' and 'Homeland', which explore the implications of surveillance and authoritarianism in the digital age. Engaged in advocacy for open access and progressive copyright reform through various organizations. Regularly speaks on issues surrounding technology and civil liberties.
Continue ReadingJames Somerville
English admiral and politician
Born
July 17th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1949 76 years ago — 66 years old
An English admiral and politician served notably as Lord Lieutenant of Somerset. Played a crucial role during both World Wars, particularly in naval operations. Actively involved in military strategy and command, influencing several key engagements and outcomes. Contributed to political discussions surrounding military affairs in the post-war period.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 12th
Gillo Pontecorvo
Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
November 19th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 86 years old
Acclaimed for significant contributions to cinema, especially in the realm of political and social themes. Directed the highly influential film 'The Battle of Algiers', which depicted the Algerian struggle for independence. Gained recognition for blending documentary-style filmmaking with dramatic storytelling. Worked on various projects that highlighted themes of conflict and resistance, and received widespread critical acclaim for his cinematic techniques and narrative style.
Continue ReadingEdmund Berry Godfrey
English lawyer and judge, notable case involvement
Born
December 23rd, 1621 404 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1678 347 years ago — 56 years old
Served as a prominent lawyer and judge in 17th century England. Gained recognition for involvement in high-profile cases such as the trial of the regicides after the execution of King Charles I. Served as a justice of the peace and held the position of the coroner of Westminster, contributing to the legal framework of the time. His mysterious death in 1678 occurred amid political turmoil and intrigue, leading to inquiries and theories regarding his murder.
Continue ReadingPeter Wessel Zapffe
Philosopher and author of existential works
Born
December 18th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1990 35 years ago — 90 years old
Contributed to existential philosophy through writings that explored the human condition and existential themes. Authored significant texts including 'The Last Messiah', which presents a unique perspective on existence. Engaged in discussions on the meaning of life, suffering, and the limitations of human knowledge. His ideas often revolved around existential despair and the role of art and philosophy in confronting human suffering.
Continue ReadingLilly Ledbetter
Labor rights activist and lawsuit initiator
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old
An American activist focused on labor rights, initiated a landmark lawsuit against Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company for pay discrimination. The case reached the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled that the claim was filed too late. This led to the introduction and passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, which aimed to strengthen protections against wage discrimination. Her experiences brought national attention to gender-based pay inequities and she became a prominent speaker on the topic.
Continue ReadingKa
American rapper and lyricist
Born
1972 54 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 52 years old
A rapper and lyricist recognized for intricate lyricism and storytelling. Released several critically acclaimed albums, including 'Grief' and 'Descendants of Cain'. Established a reputation within the underground hip hop scene. Engaged in visual arts, contributing to the aesthetic of music projects. Collaborated with various artists and maintained a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences. Influenced upcoming artists in the genre.
Continue ReadingQuintin Hogg
English Lord High Chancellor
Born
October 9th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 94 years old
An English academic and politician served as Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain. Played a significant role in the legal and educational fields, promoting reforms in these areas. Contributed to public life through various political positions and initiatives, including leadership within the Conservative Party. Engaged in legislative processes and played a key role in the establishment of policies governing higher education.
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