Jean Kennedy Smith
American diplomat, 25th Ambassador to Ireland
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as the 25th United States Ambassador to Ireland from 1993 to 1998. Played a pivotal role in the Northern Ireland peace process and was instrumental in the Good Friday Agreement. Engaged in various cultural and educational initiatives to strengthen ties between the United States and Ireland. Worked on behalf of individuals with disabilities and promoted social justice causes throughout her career.
Served as Ambassador to Ireland
Supported the Good Friday Agreement
Promoted disability rights
Other People Born on February 20th
J. Geils
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 20th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2017 8 years ago — 71 years old
A notable figure in the music industry, contributed to the rock genre as the frontman of a successful band. Founded the J. Geils Band, which gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s. The band released several popular albums, achieving substantial commercial success. Their single, 'Centerfold', reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982, solidifying their place in rock history.
Continue ReadingGeorges Bernanos
French writer and author of "Diary of a Country Priest"
Born
February 20th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1948 77 years ago — 60 years old
A French author and soldier, contributions include influential novels that explore themes of faith, morality, and the human condition. Published seminal works such as "Diary of a Country Priest" and "The Last Inquisitor," which are significant in 20th-century literature. Bernanos served in World War I, which deeply influenced his writing and philosophical outlook. His literary style combined vivid imagery with deep psychological insight, earning a place among notable French writers of the time. Throughout life, engaged with political issues and expressed strong Catholic beliefs.
Continue ReadingForbes Burnham
Guyanese politician and lawyer
Born
February 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1985 40 years ago — 62 years old
Worked as a lawyer before entering politics, serving as the 2nd President of Guyana from 1980 until 1985. Played a significant role in the country's development post-independence and was a key figure in its political landscape during the mid-20th century. Implemented various policies aimed at transforming the nation’s economy and governance structure. Helped establish the People's National Congress as a major political party in Guyana.
Continue ReadingHulusi Behçet
Turkish dermatologist and physician
Born
February 20th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1948 77 years ago — 59 years old
A significant figure in dermatology, developed Behçet's disease as a recognized condition in the 1930s. Conducted extensive research on various skin disorders and contributed to advancements in the field. Served as a professor of dermatology and influenced medical education in Turkey. Engaged in clinical practice while establishing a comprehensive understanding of autoimmune diseases through systematic study.
Continue ReadingWalter Becker
American singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 20th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2017 8 years ago — 67 years old
A singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer from the United States, recognized for co-founding the rock band Steely Dan. Played a significant role in shaping the band's distinctive sound. Collaborated with Donald Fagen in writing and producing music that blended rock, jazz, and pop, and achieved commercial success through critically acclaimed albums. Also released solo albums, showcasing a range of musical styles and influences.
Continue ReadingE. H. Harriman
Businessman and railroad magnate
Born
February 20th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1909 116 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent American businessman and philanthropist, established a significant presence in the railroad industry. Played a critical role in transforming the Union Pacific Railroad into one of the leading railroads in the United States. Involved in various business ventures, including investments in mining and utilities. A supporter of numerous philanthropic efforts, focusing on education and the arts, significantly contributed to the endowment of cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 17th
Roberto Calvi
Italian banker and financial executive
Born
April 13th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1982 43 years ago — 62 years old
Worked as a banker in Italy, leading Banco Ambrosiano as president. Involved in international banking activities during the 1970s and 1980s. His tenure was marked by significant financial operations, including dealings with the Vatican. The bank collapsed in the mid-1980s amidst scandals and financial irregularities. Calvi's mysterious death in 1982, found hanging from a bridge in London, raised numerous questions and theories regarding his financial dealings and connections.
Continue ReadingGianfranco Ferré
Italian fashion designer and creator
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2007 18 years ago — 63 years old
An influential fashion designer contributed significantly to the luxury fashion industry. Established a brand noted for elegance and sophistication. Launched the first collection in 1982, blending traditional Italian craftsmanship with modern design. Served as the creative director for Dior in the 1980s, where introduced a new vision of femininity. Awarded the prestigious Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in the Fashion Industry several times.
Continue ReadingDuffy Lewis
Baseball outfielder; World Series champion
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1979 46 years ago — 91 years old
An American baseball player and manager, spent most of his career playing as an outfielder with the Boston Red Sox. Contributed to the team's success in winning the World Series in 1918. Later transitioned into coaching and management roles within the sport. Played in various Major League Baseball seasons from 1910 to 1925, establishing a notable presence in American baseball history.
Continue ReadingFritz Walter
German footballer, 1954 World Cup winner
Born
October 31st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent German footballer, played as an attacking midfielder and forward. Spent the majority of his career at 1. FC Kaiserslautern, where he achieved significant success. Acted as team captain during the 1954 FIFA World Cup, leading Germany to victory against Hungary in the final, a match famously referred to as the 'Miracle of Bern'. His contributions to the sport extended beyond club football, representing the national team in 61 matches and scoring 33 goals. Remembered for his technical skills and leadership.
Continue ReadingBulbs Ehlers
American basketball player, All-American
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
A collegiate basketball player achieved distinction as an All-American at the University of Kansas. Played for the Kansas Jayhawks from 1940 to 1943, contributing to the team's strong performance during that period. After college, played professionally for the Chicago Stags and other teams in the Basketball Association of America. Ehlers' career spanned several years, showcasing skills in scoring and leadership on the court. His contributions to both collegiate and professional basketball left a lasting legacy in the sport.
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.
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