John Jacob Astor
Businessman and fur trader
A prominent businessman, built a fortune primarily through the fur trade in North America during the early 19th century. Established the American Fur Company in 1808, which became the largest fur trading business in the United States. Invested in real estate in New York City, contributing significantly to the city's development. Astor was a key figure in the early American economy, known for his role in the expansion of the fur industry and real estate ventures. His wealth made him one of the first multimillionaires in the United States.
Founded the American Fur Company
Amassed significant wealth in real estate
One of the first American multimillionaires
Other People Born on July 17th
Nancy Giles
American journalist and actress
Born
July 17th, 1960 65 years ago
A journalist and actress contributed to various media formats. Worked as a correspondent for CBS News and established a career in print and broadcast journalism. Also appeared on the television series 'China Beach' and hosted segments on 'CBS Sunday Morning'. Engaged in commentary on social and political issues, showcasing a strong presence in both entertainment and journalism.
Continue ReadingChristian Karl Reinhard of Leiningen-Dachsburg-Falkenburg-Heidesheim
Noble statesman and military commander
Born
July 17th, 1695 330 years ago
Died
1766 260 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1695, a member of the House of Leiningen-Dachsburg, held positions of significance within the Holy Roman Empire. Served as a military commander during various European conflicts in the early 18th century. Engaged in political affairs and represented his territory in diplomatic missions, impacting local governance and military strategy during turbulent times. His lineage continued to influence regional politics in Central Europe.
Continue ReadingJames Somerville
English admiral and politician
Born
July 17th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1949 77 years ago — 66 years old
An English admiral and politician served notably as Lord Lieutenant of Somerset. Played a crucial role during both World Wars, particularly in naval operations. Actively involved in military strategy and command, influencing several key engagements and outcomes. Contributed to political discussions surrounding military affairs in the post-war period.
Continue ReadingOG Anunoby
British basketball player, Toronto Raptors
Born
July 17th, 1997 28 years ago
Played college basketball for the University of Indiana. Selected in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors. Contributed to the Raptors' success during their championship run in the 2018-2019 season, where the team won the NBA Championship. Recognized for defensive skills and versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingCatherine Schell
Actress in 'Space: 1999' and 'The Last Remake of Beau Geste'
Born
July 17th, 1944 81 years ago
Born in Hungary and raised in England, an actress gained prominence in the 1970s. Participated in the television series 'Space: 1999' as Maya, showcasing abilities in both drama and science fiction genres. Appeared in films including 'The Last Remake of Beau Geste' and 'The Love Factor'. Worked extensively in stage productions and lent voice to various projects, including animated series and video games.
Continue ReadingBrett Goldstein
Comedian, Writer, Actor in 'Ted Lasso'
Born
July 17th, 1980 45 years ago
A British actor, comedian, and writer, this individual gained prominence for portraying Roy Kent in the television series 'Ted Lasso'. Apart from acting, contributions include writing and producing, which further enhanced the acclaim of the show. The series, lauded for its humor and heartfelt storytelling, earned numerous awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 29th
Joe Diffie
Country music singer and Grammy Award winner
Born
1958 68 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2020 6 years ago — 62 years old
A country music singer achieved significant success in the 1990s. Gained popularity with a distinctive voice and storytelling ability in lyrics. Released several chart-topping hits and albums during a prolific career. Won a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for the song 'Same Old Train.' Part of the Grand Ole Opry and contributed to the genre through songwriting as well. Continued to perform and release music until the later years.
Continue ReadingNikos Petzaropoulos
Greek Footballer with AEK Athens
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1979 47 years ago — 52 years old
Played as a prominent footballer in the Greek league during the mid-20th century. Represented AEK Athens, contributing significantly to the team's success. Participated in international competitions representing Greece, showcasing skills that earned recognition in his era. Retired from professional football and left a legacy within the sport in Greece.
Continue ReadingVivan Sundaram
Indian contemporary artist and sculptor
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2023 3 years ago — 80 years old
An influential contemporary artist, contributed to the Indian art scene through various mediums including painting and sculpture. Engaged with social and political themes, explored history and memory in works. Established the gallery, Gallery Espace, in New Delhi, promoting emerging artists while providing a significant platform for contemporary art. Participated in numerous exhibitions nationally and internationally, including the Kochi-Muziris Biennale and the Venice Biennale.
Continue ReadingJohn Kerin
Australian politician and minister
Born
November 21st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2023 3 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a member of the Australian House of Representatives from 1974 to 1990, representing the electoral division of Dickson. Held various ministerial roles, including Minister for Primary Industries and Energy from 1983 to 1984. Contributed to policy development in agriculture and regional development. Facilitated agricultural research initiatives and worked on issues related to rural health and education. Played a significant role in environmental conservation efforts during the time in office.
Continue ReadingÂngelo de Sousa
Portuguese painter and sculptor
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2011 15 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed to the contemporary art scene in Portugal as both a painter and sculptor, primarily focusing on abstract and geometric forms. Gained recognition for innovative techniques and use of materials. Participated in numerous exhibitions across Europe, showcasing a distinctive style that combined traditional and modern elements. Impacted the artistic community through teaching and mentorship while creating a significant body of work that influenced future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingCarlo Urbani
Italian physician and microbiologist
Born
October 19th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2003 23 years ago — 46 years old
A physician and microbiologist recognized for significant contributions to the understanding of infectious diseases. Worked for the World Health Organization and played a critical role during the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2003. Identified and diagnosed the disease in Vietnam, alerting global health authorities. His efforts in surveillance and containment were crucial at a time when the illness was spreading rapidly. Urbani's work emphasized the need for rapid response to emerging infectious diseases and highlighted the importance of global collaboration in public health.
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