John Cooke
English Captain of the 19th century
Born
Died
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
England
Links & References
Captain served as a naval officer in the British Royal Navy during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Actively participated in various naval engagements and contributed to maritime operations of the period. His leadership and tactical skills were notable in several conflicts, highlighting the naval strength of Britain at the time. Cooke's career spanned significant events in naval history, making him a recognized figure in English naval expeditions.
Served as captain during the Napoleonic Wars
Participated in notable naval battles
Other People Born on February 17th
John Pinkerton
Scottish antiquarian and cartographer
Born
February 17th, 1758 267 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1826 199 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1758, this individual contributed significantly to the fields of antiquarian studies and cartography. He authored various works that explored historical geography and numismatics. Notable works include 'Ancient Scottish Poems' and 'A Modern Atlas'. His contributions to map-making include the development of accurate maps of Scotland that were recognized for their detail and precision. His studies also encompassed historical texts, providing insights into Scotland’s past and cultural heritage.
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Comedian and voice actor, Cars
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February 17th, 1963 62 years ago
Originated as a stand-up comedian with a blue-collar persona. Gained widespread recognition through the role of Mater, the tow truck, in the animated film series Cars. Also contributed to various television shows, including his own series, which showcased his comedic style. His catchphrase, 'Git-R-Done,' became popular among fans and was used in merchandise.
Continue ReadingAlan Bates
English actor in film and theater
Born
February 17th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2003 21 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1934, an English actor gained recognition for performances on stage and in film. Became associated with the Royal Shakespeare Company and starred in various notable productions. Achieved acclaim for the role in 'The Birthday Party' and performed in films such as 'Women in Love' and 'The Go-Between'. Received the Laurence Olivier Award for his work in theater, highlighting a significant contribution to the performing arts. In 1990, appeared in the television adaptation of 'The Old Man and the Sea', further demonstrating versatility across mediums.
Continue ReadingJoe Hunt
American tennis player and champion
Born
February 17th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1919, a professional tennis player in the United States, participated in major tournaments during the 1940s. Gained recognition for competing in the Davis Cup, representing the United States. Achieved notable success in singles and doubles events, particularly notable at the U.S. National Championships. His athletic career was interrupted by World War II, but returned to the sport post-war, continuing to compete at high levels.
Continue ReadingRené Laennec
French physician and inventor of the stethoscope
Born
February 17th, 1781 244 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1826 199 years ago — 45 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of medicine through the invention of the stethoscope, which revolutionized the way physicians diagnosed patients. Laennec published 'De l'Auscultation Médiate', detailing his techniques and the importance of auscultation in diagnosing disease. His methods became foundational in clinical practice and are still in use today.
Continue ReadingMarc Lawrence
Actor and director of 'The Big Clock'
Born
February 17th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2005 20 years ago — 95 years old
An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. In the 1940s, began appearing in films and gained recognition for roles in film noir. In 1948, starred in 'The Big Clock' and directed his first film, 'The Killing of Sister George' in 1968. Transitioned to television with guest roles in series such as 'Columbo' and 'The Golden Girls'. His work spanned several decades, contributing to both film and television as a creative force.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 21st
Isabelle Eberhardt
Swiss explorer and author
Born
February 17th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1904 121 years ago — 27 years old
Born in 1877, a Swiss explorer and writer explored North Africa, particularly Algeria, and contributed to literature through personal writings. Eberhardt adopted a male identity to navigate a male-dominated society and traveled extensively through desert regions, documenting her experiences and observations. Her works reflect the cultural and social dynamics of the time. Eberhardt's life was marked by a fascination with Sufi mysticism and she became involved with the local communities, blending her Western and Eastern experiences.
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American runner and general
Born
September 20th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1975 50 years ago — 86 years old
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Physicist and mathematician known for optics
Born
March 5th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1872 153 years ago — 78 years old
A French physicist, mathematician, and astronomer contributed to various fields, particularly optics and physical science. Worked on studies of polarization and developed the Babinet Compensator, enhancing measurements in optical experiments. His research in mathematics and the advancement of mathematics education in France also stands out among his contributions. Engaged with the scientific community, Babinet played a role in scientific societies and published numerous papers throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJules Chevalier
Founder of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart
Born
March 15th, 1824 201 years ago
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October 21st, 1907 118 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1824, a French priest established the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart to promote devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The organization aimed to engage in missionary work and provide spiritual education. Chevalier dedicated efforts to spreading Catholic teachings and enhancing the spiritual life of communities. His mission was instrumental in developing a global network of missionary priests and laypeople committed to serving local populations in various countries. The congregation continues to operate and engage in pastoral work worldwide.
Continue ReadingCharles VI of France
French King during the Hundred Years' War
Born
December 3rd, 1368 657 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1422 603 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled France from 1380 to 1422. Initial reign characterized by a strong central government but disrupted by bouts of insanity that led to periods of regency. Faced significant challenges during the Hundred Years' War, including the loss of French territories to the English. Influenced the internal political landscape of France through the creation of the Armagnac-Burgundian conflict, a civil war among rival factions. His later years involved struggles for power and stability within the kingdom.
Continue ReadingHans Merensky
Geologist and philanthropist
Born
March 16th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1952 73 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to geology and mining in South Africa. Conducted geological surveys and mapped mineral resources, particularly in the Bushveld Igneous Complex. Advocated for education and established schools and libraries in rural areas. Founded the Merensky Trust to support education and cultural development.
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