Jonathan Trumbull
Colonel and politician, 16th Governor of Connecticut
Served as an American colonel during the Revolutionary War and held the position of Governor of Connecticut for 14 years. Played a significant role in supporting the Continental Army through the provision of supplies and military resources. Oversaw the establishment of wartime governance and civil administration in Connecticut, contributing to the stability of the colony during a period of conflict. Established a legacy of leadership and public service that influenced the political landscape of Connecticut in the years following the Revolution.
Served as the 16th Governor of Connecticut
Supported the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War
Other People Born on October 12th
Al Held
Abstract painter and educator
Born
October 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
An American painter and academic, this individual became a prominent figure in the field of abstract art. Work included large-scale canvases characterized by geometric shapes and bold colors. Held was a member of the New York School and contributed to the evolution of geometric abstraction from the 1960s onward. In addition to painting, engaged in teaching as a professor at notable institutions, influencing a new generation of artists. Exhibited widely across the United States and internationally.
Continue ReadingDon Howe
Football manager and player
Born
October 12th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old
A football player and manager with a prominent career in English football. Played as a defender and later took on managerial roles, notably with West Bromwich Albion and the England national team. Contributed to coaching at Arsenal and worked with various clubs throughout a lengthy career, influencing many players and coaching strategies.
Continue ReadingRick Parfitt
English guitarist and songwriter with Status Quo
Born
October 12th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent guitarist and songwriter, made significant contributions to rock music as a member of the band Status Quo. The band achieved commercial success with a series of hit singles and albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Parfitt's guitar work and songwriting played a central role in the band’s distinctive boogie rock sound. Frequently collaborated with bandmate Francis Rossi in songwriting and performing. Continued to tour and record with Status Quo well into the 21st century, gaining international recognition.
Continue ReadingHenry More
English philosopher, Platonist thinker
Born
October 12th, 1614 411 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1687 338 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure of the Cambridge Platonists, contributed to the revival of Platonic philosophy in England during the 17th century. Published several works that integrated metaphysics and theology, emphasizing the existence of God and the immortality of the soul. Engaged in debates with contemporaries, including Thomas Hobbes and John Locke, on matters of philosophy and the nature of reality. Served as a fellow of Christ's College, Cambridge, where significant ideas were developed that shaped modern philosophical discourse.
Continue ReadingPat DiNizio
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of The Smithereens
Born
October 12th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1955, a singer-songwriter and guitarist achieved recognition as the frontman of the rock band The Smithereens. The group garnered a dedicated following in the 1980s and 1990s with their power pop sound. The band's hits included songs such as "Blood and Roses" and "A Girl Like You," which showcased a blend of melodic rock and lyrical depth. In addition to the band's success, contributed to various musical projects and collaborations throughout a prolific career. His songwriting reflected personal experiences and broader themes.
Continue ReadingDick Gregory
Comedian and civil rights activist
Born
October 12th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2017 8 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent comedian and civil rights activist emerged in the 1960s, combining humor with social commentary. Started a career in stand-up comedy, gaining recognition for tackling race relations and social issues through performances. Authored several books, including 'Nigger' in 1964, which became a bestseller. Participated in civil rights marches alongside leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Muhammad Ali. Transitioned into activism, taking part in hunger strikes and advocating for various humanitarian causes. Acted in films and television throughout the career, contributing to series such as 'The Dick Gregory Show' and making guest appearances on talk shows. His work influenced both comedy and activism, paving the way for future generations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
William Jervois
Governor of South Australia
Born
September 10th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1897 128 years ago — 75 years old
Born in England, served as an engineer and politician. Held the position of the 10th Governor of South Australia from 1877 to 1883. Prior to governance, contributed to military engineering in various locations, including significant work on fortifications. Oversaw the development of infrastructure and governance frameworks during tenure in South Australia.
Continue ReadingVictoria Shaw
Australian actress in television and film
Born
May 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 53 years old
Born in Australia, a successful actress played prominent roles in the television series 'The Big Valley' and 'The Day of the Locust'. Career spanned multiple decades, contributing significantly to the entertainment industry. Also appeared in various films and television shows, showcasing versatility and talent in acting.
Continue ReadingJack Harshman
Baseball player and manager, 1953 All-Star
Born
July 12th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
An American baseball player and manager, played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1951 to 1961. Selected as an All-Star in 1953 while playing for the Chicago White Sox. Also pitched for the Washington Senators, Baltimore Orioles, and San Francisco Giants. Post playing career included managing in the minor leagues and briefly in the major leagues.
Continue ReadingKen Miles
Race car driver and Le Mans competitor
Born
November 1st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1966 59 years ago — 47 years old
An English-American race car driver participated in numerous motorsport events during the 1950s and 1960s. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Ford GT40, contributing significantly to its racing success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved notable victories in various sports car races, solidifying a reputation within the racing community for precision driving and engineering insight. His collaboration with Ford Racing led to innovative engineering solutions and a deep understanding of vehicle performance. Miles died in a testing accident in 1966, shortly before the completion of the Ford GT40's successful racing campaign.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Da Ponte
Opera librettist for Mozart's works
Born
March 10th, 1749 277 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1838 187 years ago — 89 years old
An Italian-American priest and poet, contributed significantly to the world of opera through collaborations with composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Wrote librettos for several operas including 'The Marriage of Figaro,' 'Don Giovanni,' and 'Cosi fan tutte.' After moving to America, engaged in various pursuits, including founding an Italian-language school in New York. His literary contributions continue to be celebrated in the realms of music and literature.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-Fukakusa
Emperor of Japan during the Kamakura period
Born
June 28th, 1243 782 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1304 721 years ago — 61 years old
Became emperor of Japan in 1246 and reigned until 1259. During the reign, significant administrative changes took place within the imperial court. Following abdication, served as a retired emperor, influencing politics behind the scenes. The period saw ongoing conflicts between the imperial court and warrior clans, impacting the political landscape of the time. His reign was part of the Kamakura era, marked by the emergence of the samurai class and a shift in power dynamics.
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