Jean Kennedy Smith

American diplomat, 25th Ambassador to Ireland

Jean Kennedy Smith - American diplomat, 25th Ambassador to Ireland
Born

February 20th, 1928
97 years ago

Died

June 17th, 2020
5 years ago — 92 years old

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

William Carleton

Irish author of rural stories
Born
February 20th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1869 156 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent Irish author, focused on rural life and culture, primarily wrote during the 19th century. Contributed significantly to Irish literature with a series of writings depicting the lives of the Irish peasantry. His works are characterized by a deep understanding of the socio-economic conditions of Ireland during that period. Gained recognition through novels, short stories, and essays that provided insight into the struggles and hardships of rural communities. Notable works include 'The Tithe Proctor' and 'The Black Prophet'. Assisted in shaping Irish narrative prose, providing a platform for future literary explorations of Irish identity and social issues.

Continue Reading

Trevor Noah

Comedian and host of The Daily Show
Born
February 20th, 1984 41 years ago

A South African comedian and television host, gained prominence as the host of 'The Daily Show' on Comedy Central. Initially, worked as a stand-up comedian and garnered a following in South Africa. Authored the memoir 'Born a Crime,' detailing experiences growing up during apartheid. The book received critical acclaim for its humor and poignancy, further establishing a reputation as a storyteller. Expanded into acting, appearing in films like 'Black Panther'.

Continue Reading

Daniella Pineda

American actress in Jurassic World films
Born
February 20th, 1987 38 years ago

Pineda gained attention for her role as Zia Rodriguez in the Jurassic World series. Initially trained in acting, she began appearing in television roles, which led to her breakout in film. Before this, she was part of the cast of the series The Originals, where she portrayed the character Sophie Deveraux. Pineda's versatility allowed her to transition between comedy and drama, enriching her performances across genres. She continues to engage with various acting projects, evolving her craft and expanding her filmography.

Continue Reading

Jarrett Culver

Basketball player for Minnesota Timberwolves
Born
February 20th, 1999 26 years ago

Basketball player, drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2019 as the sixth overall pick in the NBA Draft. Played college basketball at Texas Tech University, leading the team to the NCAA Championship game in 2019. Received the Big 12 Player of the Year award in 2019.

Continue Reading

Martin Hanzal

Czech ice hockey player with NHL experience
Born
February 20th, 1987 38 years ago

A professional ice hockey player, this individual played for multiple teams in the NHL, primarily the Arizona Coyotes. Known for skills as a center, his career included contributions to significant team efforts during playoff seasons. After beginning in the Czech leagues, a transition to North America occurred, where valuable experience was gained. The player's physical style and size contributed to effectiveness on the ice, drawing attention during his career.

Continue Reading

Mariliza Xenogiannakopoulou

Greek lawyer and politician
Born
February 20th, 1963 62 years ago

Served as the Greek Minister of Health during the period of 2009 to 2012. Worked on healthcare reforms and initiatives aimed at improving public health services in Greece. Engaged in legislative processes and contributed to policy-making in the health sector. Participated in various committees focusing on health and social affairs, advocating for better healthcare access and management within the country.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 17th

Jack Parsons

Chemist and Rocket Propulsion Pioneer
Born
October 2nd, 1914 110 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1952 73 years ago — 37 years old

An American chemist and engineer, this individual contributed significantly to the early development of rocket propulsion technology. Involved with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the California Institute of Technology, he played a crucial role in the advancement of solid-fuel rockets. Additionally, he was associated with the Thelema spiritual philosophy, influenced by Aleister Crowley, and engaged in various occult practices. His work with the Aerojet Engineering Corporation furthered the use of chemical propellants in rocketry. Tragedy struck in 1952 when an explosion occurred at his home laboratory, resulting in his death. Despite a life marked by controversy and challenges, his legacy endures in the field of aerospace engineering.

Continue Reading

Darrell Powers

American sergeant from WWII
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 86 years old

Served as a sergeant in the United States Army during World War II. Participated in the D-Day landings and served in the European Theater, where significant battles occurred. Engaged in the Battle of the Bulge, one of the largest and bloodiest battles fought by American forces during the war. Contributed to the liberation of concentration camps, witnessing harrowing scenes that illustrated the atrocities of war. Post-war, shared experiences through interviews and historical records, contributing to the understanding of soldiers' experiences.

Continue Reading

Jan of Jenštejn

Archbishop of Prague
Born
1348 677 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1400 625 years ago — 52 years old

Served as Archbishop of Prague from 1379 to 1397. Played a significant role in the ecclesiastical and political landscape of Bohemia during the late 14th century. Engaged in conflicts with Czech nobility and participated in various religious and political affairs. Contributed to improving the administration of the Archdiocese of Prague and was involved in the establishment of the Prague University.

Continue Reading

Gloria 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 Reading

Nikolay Bobrikov

Russian politician, Governor-General of Finland
Born
1839 186 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1904 121 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a Russian soldier and politician, holding the position of Governor-General of Finland from 1898 until his assassination in 1904. Implemented policies aimed at increasing Russian influence over Finland. His tenure faced significant opposition from Finnish nationalists, culminating in his assassination by a Finnish student discontented with his administration's autocratic measures. Bobrikov's rule is noted for its attempts to suppress Finnish institutions and culture in favor of Russian dominance.

Continue Reading

Paul Rostock

Surgeon and academic focusing on surgery
Born
January 18th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1956 69 years ago — 64 years old

Born in Germany in 1892, an influential surgeon contributed extensively to the field of surgery. Held academic positions where surgical techniques and education were emphasized. Published significant research that advanced surgical practices and educated future surgeons in various medical institutions. Involved in several surgical innovations and surgical oncology, shaping modern surgical approaches.

Continue Reading