John T. Downey

CIA agent and federal judge

John T. Downey - Leaders & Politicians born 1930
Born

1930
96 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as a CIA agent during the Cold War, participating in covert operations in support of U.S. foreign policy. Following a career in intelligence, transitioned to a judicial role, serving as a federal judge. Contributed to the legal community and focused on upholding the law during tenure in the judiciary.

Involved in covert operations in Laos

Served as a federal judge

Other People Who Died on November 17th

Mary I of England

Queen of England and Ireland
Born
February 18th, 1516 510 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1558 467 years ago — 42 years old

Reigned as Queen of England and Ireland from 1553 until 1558. Mary was the first woman to rule England in her own right. The daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon, she attempted to restore Roman Catholicism in England after the Protestant Reformation initiated by her father. Her reign was marked by the persecution of Protestants, now referred to as the Marian Persecutions. Mary married Philip II of Spain, which was controversial and led to anti-Spanish sentiment during her rule. The queen's reign concluded with her death in 1558, which led to the accession of her half-sister, Elizabeth I.

Continue Reading

Lea Gottlieb

Fashion designer, founded Gottex
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old

A Hungarian-Israeli fashion designer established the Gottex Company, which specialized in swimwear and beachwear. The brand gained recognition for its innovative designs and high-quality fabrics. The company became a staple in swimwear fashion, appealing to a global market. Gottlieb's work emphasized both fashion and functionality, contributing significantly to the evolution of swimwear design. The brand's collections were regularly showcased at fashion events, solidifying its reputation in the industry.

Continue Reading

Mort Cooper

Baseball player, All-Star pitcher
Born
March 2nd, 1913 113 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1958 67 years ago — 45 years old

Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1938, Cooper played as a right-handed pitcher primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved All-Star selection in 1942 and led the National League in wins in 1942 and 1943. Contributed significantly to the Cardinals' success during the early 1940s, including participation in the 1942 World Series championship team. His pitching prowess helped solidify his reputation in the league before retiring in 1945.

Continue Reading

Gregory VII of Constantinople

Patriarch of Constantinople, theologian
Born
1850 176 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1924 101 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 1923 until death in 1924. Advocated for church unity and addressed the challenges faced by the Orthodox Church in a changing political landscape. Focused on theological discussions and the relationship between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches. Attempted to promote dialogue and reconciliation among different Christian denominations.

Continue Reading

Abraham van Riebeeck

Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies
Born
1653 373 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1713 312 years ago — 60 years old

An important figure in the early history of South Africa, this individual served as the first commander of the Cape Colony. Arrival in 1652 marked the establishment of the Dutch settlement at Cape of Good Hope. His administration focused on the development of the colony, including agriculture and trade. Encouraged immigration to support the workforce, which laid the groundwork for future settlement in the region.

Continue Reading

Eleanor of Viseu

Portuguese queen and noblewoman
Born
May 2nd, 1458 568 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1525 500 years ago — 67 years old

Married to King João II of Portugal, served as queen consort. Played a significant role in the affairs of the kingdom during the late 15th century. Managed the royal household and engaged in political matters, contributing to Portugal's affairs alongside her husband. Following the death of João II, took on responsibilities related to the royal family's legacy and maintained her influence within the court.

Continue Reading