John Wilkes
Journalist and British politician
Born
Died
1797
228 years ago — 72 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Active in the 18th century, contributed significantly to journalism and politics in England. Advocated for freedom of the press and civil liberties. Elected as a Member of Parliament for Middlesex multiple times, he became a prominent figure in opposition to the government. His controversial writings and public speeches led to several conflicts with authorities, earning imprisonment for seditious libel. His efforts played a critical role in shaping public opinion during his era.
Published the North Briton newspaper
Elected as Member of Parliament for Middlesex
Other People Born on October 17th
Francisco Flores Pérez
Salvadorian politician and president
Born
October 17th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2016 9 years ago — 56 years old
Served as President of El Salvador from 1999 to 2004. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Minister of Finance and played a crucial role in economic reforms. Implemented policies aimed at stabilizing the economy and reducing poverty. Oversaw major initiatives in education and health care during the presidential term. After leaving office, faced legal challenges and controversy related to alleged corruption and mismanagement.
Continue ReadingNathalie Tauziat
French tennis player and Grand Slam semifinalist
Born
October 17th, 1967 58 years ago
A professional tennis player competed primarily in the 1990s. Achieved significant success on the WTA Tour, including reaching the semifinals of Wimbledon in 1998. Also represented France in various international competitions, including the Fed Cup. Ended career with a high singles ranking of World No. 16. After retirement, transitioned into coaching and tennis commentary.
Continue ReadingJay Humphries
American basketball player and guard
Born
October 17th, 1962 63 years ago
Played basketball professionally, primarily as a guard in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Began collegiate career at the University of Utah, achieving significant success. Entered the NBA Draft in 1985, selected by the Phoenix Suns. Contributed to the team's performance, later playing for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Utah Jazz. Retired after a successful career, transitioning to coaching and developing young players.
Continue ReadingDanny Ferry
Basketball player and manager, Cleveland Cavaliers
Born
October 17th, 1966 59 years ago
Played basketball at Duke University, achieving All-American honors. Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers as the second overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft, later traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Played for the Cavaliers from 1989 to 1996, contributing to the team's playoff appearances. After retiring as a player, transitioned into a front-office role, serving as general manager for the Cavaliers and the Atlanta Hawks. His management tenure involved assisting in the team building for successful playoff contending rosters.
Continue ReadingWilliam Anders
Astronaut, Apollo 8 Lunar Module Pilot
Born
October 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
June 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1933, a general and astronaut with significant contributions to space exploration. Participated in Apollo 8, the first crewed mission to orbit the Moon. The mission provided critical information for future lunar landings and included a televised Christmas Eve broadcast from lunar orbit. Held various leadership roles in the United States Air Force, retiring as a major general. Also served as an executive in the private sector after leaving NASA.
Continue ReadingRob Marshall
Director of 'Chicago' and 'Into the Woods'
Born
October 17th, 1960 65 years ago
Born in 1960, this American director, producer, and choreographer gained prominence in the film industry with a talent for musical adaptations. Collaborated with various Broadway productions before transitioning to film. 'Chicago', released in 2002, showcased a unique integration of choreography and storytelling, earning critical acclaim and winning six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Directed 'Memoirs of a Geisha' in 2005, which won three Oscars. 'Into the Woods', based on the Stephen Sondheim musical, was released in 2014.
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