Jim Brown
American football player and actor
An American football player and actor, celebrated as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Played for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965, revolutionizing the position with his powerful running style and agility. Achieved three MVP awards and won the NFL Championship in 1964. Transitioned to acting after retirement, featuring in films such as 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Any Given Sunday'.
Rushed for over 12,000 yards in NFL
Won NFL MVP three times
Starred in 'The Dirty Dozen'
Other People Born on February 17th
Al Harrington
Basketball player; NBA All-Star
Born
February 17th, 1980 46 years ago
Played basketball professionally in the NBA for several teams, including the Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks, and Golden State Warriors. Achieved notable success during the 2003-2004 NBA season with the Pacers, which culminated in an appearance as an NBA All-Star in 2009. Known for versatility as a forward and ability to score as well as rebound. Transitioned to a role as an entrepreneur after retiring from professional basketball.
Continue ReadingCurt Swan
Comic book illustrator of Superman
Born
February 17th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1996 30 years ago — 76 years old
An American illustrator focused on comic books, primarily worked on Superman titles for DC Comics. Swan's artistic career spanned several decades, greatly influencing the visual representation of iconic characters. His tenure with Superman included drawing for the comic book series from the late 1940s into the 1980s. Renowned for his clear line style, Swan's work helped shape the modern depiction of superheroes. He received recognition through various awards in the comic book industry.
Continue ReadingRuth Clifford
American actress in silent films
Born
February 17th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 98 years old
Began a film career in silent cinema, gradually transitioning to sound films. Featured in over 120 films from the 1910s to the 1940s, gaining recognition for roles in both comedies and dramas. Collaborated with notable studios such as Universal and Columbia Pictures. Later appeared in television series, including memorable performances in 'The Twilight Zone'.
Continue ReadingKarl Jenkins
Welsh composer and saxophonist of 'Adiemus'
Born
February 17th, 1944 82 years ago
A saxophonist, keyboard player, and composer, this individual is recognized for blending classical and contemporary musical styles. Studied at the Royal Academy of Music and initially part of the jazz group Soft Machine, the work expanded into orchestral and choral compositions. The composition 'Adiemus' gained significant popularity, characterized by its unique blend of vocal harmonies and world music influences. Also composed the notable work 'The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace', which has been performed worldwide.
Continue ReadingWu Zetian
Empress of the Zhou dynasty
Born
February 17th, 624 1402 years ago
Died
December 16th, 705 1320 years ago — 81 years old
Ruled as the only female emperor in Chinese history during the Zhou dynasty. Ascended to power initially as a concubine of Emperor Gaozong. After his death, took control of the throne and established the Zhou dynasty, which lasted from 690 to 705. Implemented significant reforms in the government and promoted Buddhism as a state religion. Enhanced the civil service examination system, which expanded the meritocratic bureaucracy.
Continue ReadingWally Pipp
Baseball player and journalist
Born
February 17th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1965 61 years ago — 71 years old
Played as a first baseman in Major League Baseball. Spent most of career with the New York Yankees. Helped the team to a championship in 1921. Pipp's consecutive game streak ended when a young player named Lou Gehrig took his place, marking a significant moment in baseball history. After retiring from playing, transitioned to a career in journalism, covering sports.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Hans-Peter Dürr
Physicist and academic in quantum physics
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2014 12 years ago — 85 years old
Contributions to quantum physics were significant, impacting theoretical foundations. Served as Director at the Max Planck Institute for Physics in Munich, influencing the field through research and education. Advocated for the peaceful use of science, engaging in dialogues about the ethical implications of scientific advancements. Participated in various public talks and writings, emphasizing the responsibility of scientists in society.
Continue ReadingDolla
American rapper known for 'Who the F**k Is That?'
Born
1987 39 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2009 17 years ago — 22 years old
Born in the United States, this rapper gained recognition for his single 'Who the F**k Is That?' in the late 2000s. The song showcased a unique style that contributed to the rising popularity of hip-hop during that era. Collaborations with artists like T-Pain and Akon also marked a significant part of his career. Despite a promising start, the life of this rapper ended tragically in 2009 when he was killed in a shooting in Los Angeles.
Continue ReadingEric IX of Sweden
King of Sweden, established Christianity
Died
May 18th, 1160 866 years ago — None years old
Ruled as King of Sweden from 1156 until death in 1160. Played a significant role in the Christianization of Sweden, promoting the spread of Christianity among the Swedish people. Successfully formed alliances with neighboring regions and strengthened the monarchy's authority. Undertook military campaigns to protect and expand the realm, including conflicts with both internal rivals and external threats. His reign contributed to the establishment of Sweden as a more unified state.
Continue ReadingJacque Fresco
Engineer and futurist, The Venus Project
Born
March 13th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2017 9 years ago — 101 years old
An engineer and social inventor focused on designing sustainable cities and a resource-based economy. Developed The Venus Project, which presents a vision for a potential sustainable future through innovative technology and urban planning concepts. Advocated for the redesign of society based on rationality, efficiency, and sustainability. Worked towards raising awareness about social issues and the potential for human advancement through integrative engineering solutions.
Continue ReadingGustav Mahler
Composer and conductor of symphonies
Born
July 7th, 1860 166 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1911 115 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1860, significant contributions to symphonic and vocal music occurred. Served as a conductor at the Vienna State Opera and the New York Philharmonic. Composed ten symphonies, renowned for their emotional depth and innovative orchestration. The Symphony No. 2, also known as the 'Resurrection Symphony,' and the Symphony No. 8, known as the 'Symphony of a Thousand,' are particularly noted works. Mahler's compositional style merged late-Romantic traditions with innovative techniques, influencing future generations of composers.
Continue ReadingJacob Fichman
Romanian-Israeli poet and critic
Born
November 25th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1958 68 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Romania, a significant figure in Hebrew literature. Primarily active during the early 20th century, focused on poetry and literary criticism. Moved to Palestine in 1924 and contributed to the cultural scene. Engaged in promoting Hebrew poetry, playing a crucial role in the literary community. Worked as an editor and published various articles and essays on literature, emphasizing the importance of Hebrew in the literary world.
Continue Reading