James Holshouser
Lawyer and Governor of North Carolina
Served as the 68th Governor of North Carolina from 1973 to 1977. Held the distinction of being the first Republican Governor of the state since 1901. Focused on education reform and improving infrastructure during the gubernatorial term. Before his governorship, practiced law and engaged in local politics.
First Republican Governor of North Carolina since 1901
Served from 1973 to 1977
Advocated for education reform
Other People Born on October 8th
Taylor Price
American football player, New England Patriots
Born
October 8th, 1987 38 years ago
Played as a wide receiver in the NFL. Drafted by the New England Patriots in the 2010 NFL Draft. Contributed to the team's offensive strategies during his tenure. Later played for the Miami Dolphins and the Jacksonville Jaguars. Regarded for his athleticism and route-running abilities during college.
Continue ReadingMiloš Pavlović
Race car driver known for touring cars
Born
October 8th, 1982 43 years ago
Competed primarily in touring car racing events. Achieved notable success in the European Touring Car Championship, securing multiple podium finishes. Demonstrated skill in various racing formats and participated in numerous national and international competitions since the early 2000s.
Continue ReadingQinwen Zheng
Chinese tennis player with WTA titles
Born
October 8th, 2002 23 years ago
Competed prominently on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) tour. Achieved a career-high singles ranking within the top 30. Made a notable run in various international tournaments, showcasing skill on both hard and clay courts. Recognized for strong performances and significant tournament victories, including reaching the later rounds of Grand Slam events.
Continue ReadingBella Thorne
American actress and filmmaker
Born
October 8th, 1997 28 years ago
In film and television, an actress gained prominence through roles in the Disney Channel series 'Shake It Up' and movies such as 'The Duff' and 'The Babysitter'. Additionally, she ventured into directing with the film 'Puppet'. Thorne identified as a creative force in both acting and filmmaking, and her work often turned towards themes of empowerment and personal expression. Also known for significant contributions to the music industry, she released several singles showcasing her artistic versatility.
Continue ReadingTimo Meier
Swiss Ice Hockey Player with NHL Accomplishments
Born
October 8th, 1996 29 years ago
Born in 1996, this player gained recognition in professional ice hockey as a forward in the NHL. Drafted by the San Jose Sharks in 2015, showcased skills and scoring ability in several seasons with the team. Contributed significantly to the Sharks' playoff runs during the late 2010s. Represented Switzerland in international tournaments, earning accolades during his national career.
Continue ReadingDevontae Cacok
Basketball player with NBA experience
Born
October 8th, 1996 29 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, where notable contributions included leading the team in scoring and rebounding. Entered the NBA in 2020, signing with the Los Angeles Lakers. Contributed to the team's success during the 2020 NBA Championship season. Later joined the San Antonio Spurs, furthering professional career in the league.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 17th
Bob Sweikert
Race car driver and Indianapolis 500 winner
Born
May 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1956 69 years ago — 30 years old
An accomplished race car driver from the United States, achieved notable success in the 1950s. Sweikert won the Indianapolis 500 in 1955, earning recognition within the racing community. He participated in numerous events across the United States, demonstrating skill and competitiveness on various tracks. His racing career included several victories in AAA championship races, contributing to his reputation as a talented driver.
Continue ReadingDaskalogiannis
Greek rebel leader during Ottoman rule
Born
1722 303 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1771 254 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent figure in the Cretan revolt against Ottoman authority, he played a crucial role in leading the Greek independence movement in the 18th century. Daskalogiannis was instrumental in organizing and gathering support for the uprising, becoming a symbol of resistance in Crete. Captured by Ottoman forces, he faced execution, which further fueled revolutionary sentiments among Greeks. His legacy endures as a representation of the struggle for freedom in Greece.
Continue ReadingGloria Vanderbilt
Fashion designer and actress
Born
February 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2019 6 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent fashion designer, socialite, and actress, contributions spanned multiple fields. In 1976, launched a successful line of jeans that became a cultural phenomenon. Created an iconic slip-on jeans style that represented luxury and comfort. Additionally, starred in the film 'The Last of Mrs. Lincoln' and appeared on television series such as 'The Love Boat'. Authored several books, including novels and memoirs, providing insight into personal experiences and life as a socialite.
Continue ReadingJohn David Crow
American football player and coach
Born
July 8th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old
A professional football player and coach, played primarily as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the Chicago Cardinals from 1958 to 1961 and the San Francisco 49ers from 1962 to 1963. Achieved recognition as the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1960. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, serving in various capacities at the college level.
Continue ReadingSüleyman Demirel
Turkish politician and 9th President
Born
November 1st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1924, an engineer by training, served multiple terms as Prime Minister and was elected the 9th President of Turkey in 1993, holding office until 2000. During political career, advocated for economic development and modernization. Contributed to significant infrastructure projects and participated in the establishment of Turkey's political landscape. Played a key role in the transition of Turkey to a multi-party democracy in the 1950s. After presidency, remained active in political affairs until late in life, influencing various party dynamics.
Continue ReadingPhilip Howard
English cardinal and martyr
Born
September 21st, 1629 396 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1694 331 years ago — 64 years old
Ordained as a Catholic priest, served in England during a time of significant religious conflict. Became a cardinal in 1645 and was an influential figure within the Catholic Church. Arrested for his faith, endured imprisonment and ultimately martyrdom for his religious convictions. Recognized as a saint in the Catholic Church, contributing to the legacy of English Catholicism.
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