John Wilkes
Journalist and British politician
Born
Died
1797
229 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
Francis Bouillon
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
October 17th, 1975 50 years ago
Drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 1993, played in the NHL primarily as a defenseman. Spent significant time with the Montreal Canadiens, where contributions helped secure a playoff berth. Played key role in team winning the Stanley Cup in 1993. Notable for strong defensive skills and on-ice leadership, contributed to various teams over a career spanning several years.
Continue ReadingHjördis Petterson
Swedish actress in film and theater
Born
October 17th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1988 38 years ago — 79 years old
An actress started a career in the 1930s, earning recognition in Swedish film and theater. Appeared in productions such as 'Käfinge' and 'Lort-SM'. Designed a stage career marked by strong performances and dedication to the craft. Continued to act through the decades, contributing to the arts in Sweden until later in life.
Continue ReadingVitali Teleš
Estonian footballer and national team player
Born
October 17th, 1983 42 years ago
Born in 1983, a footballer who played primarily as a midfielder. Teleš began his professional career with Estonian club FC Flora Tallinn, appearing in numerous domestic league games. Later, he played for several other clubs in Estonia and abroad, contributing significantly to team performances. Teleš represented the Estonia national football team, earning multiple caps in international competitions. His involvement with the national team included participation in UEFA European Championship qualifying matches. Over the years, Teleš established himself as a key player in the Estonian league system and showcased skillful performances on the pitch.
Continue ReadingLuiz Bonfá
Brazilian guitarist and composer of 'Manha de Carnaval'
Born
October 17th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 25 years ago — 78 years old
A Brazilian guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to the bossa nova genre. Bonfá's music combined elements of samba and jazz, influencing generations of musicians. He gained international recognition for the composition 'Manhã de Carnaval,' featured in the film 'Black Orpheus.' Throughout his career, Bonfá released numerous albums, showcasing his unique guitar style and composition skills. His works remain popular among musicians and fans of Brazilian music.
Continue ReadingMarko Antonio Cortés Mendoza
Mexican politician and party leader
Born
October 17th, 1977 48 years ago
A politician from Mexico, this individual served as the leader of the National Action Party (PAN). Holding a seat in the Chamber of Deputies, he represented the state of Michoacán. The tenure included significant participation in legislative processes and efforts to shape party policies. Focused on public accountability and governmental reforms, contributions were made to various political debates within the Mexican government.
Continue ReadingClaude Henri de Rouvroy
Economist and philosopher, Saint-Simon
Born
October 17th, 1760 265 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1825 201 years ago — 64 years old
Born in France, one of the prominent figures in early socialism. Developed theories on industrial society and the role of the industrial class in social progress. Advocated for a new social order that emphasized the importance of productive work and the coordination of industry. Founded the Saint-Simonian movement, which influenced socialist thought and later socialist movements across Europe. Writings included 'The New Christianity' and 'The Industrial System', which emphasized scientific and industrial development as key to societal advancement.
Continue Reading