Jorge Rafael Videla

Argentinian general and President

Jorge Rafael Videla - Argentinian general and President
Born

August 2nd, 1925
100 years ago

Died

May 17th, 2013
12 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Argentina

Links & References

Served as the 43rd President of Argentina from 1976 to 1981 following a military coup. Led the country during the Dirty War, a period characterized by widespread human rights abuses. Implemented policies aimed at suppressing dissent and promoting economic reforms. Oversaw actions that resulted in the disappearance and torture of thousands.

Led Argentina during the Dirty War

Implemented economic reforms

Presided over a military dictatorship

Other People Born on August 2nd

Mary-Louise Parker

Actress notable for 'Weeds' and 'Proof'
Born
August 2nd, 1964 61 years ago

An actress whose career spans theatre, television, and film. Gained prominence for the television series 'Weeds', portraying the lead character Nancy Botwin, a suburban mother turned marijuana dealer. Starred in the Broadway production of 'Proof', earning a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play. Appeared in films such as 'Fried Green Tomatoes' and 'The Spiderwick Chronicles'. Received additional acclaim for her roles in 'The West Wing' and 'Red'.

Continue Reading

Prafulla Chandra Ray

Chemist and academic, founder of Bengal Chemicals
Born
August 2nd, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 83 years old

Prafulla Chandra Ray contributed significantly to the field of chemistry in India. A prominent academic, he established Bengal Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, the first pharmaceutical company in India. Ray's research primarily focused on the chemistry of arsenic and nitrogen compounds. He played a key role in the promotion of chemical education in India and was involved with several educational institutions. His dedication to fostering chemistry as a rigorous academic discipline was instrumental in shaping the future of chemical sciences in the country.

Continue Reading

James Fallows

Journalist and author of 'Post-Capitalism'
Born
August 2nd, 1949 76 years ago

Journalist and author contributed to various publications, including The Atlantic, where pieces explored politics, technology, and culture. Authored several books, focusing on contemporary American issues and global perspectives. Engaged with readers through detailed reporting and thoughtful analysis. Served as a national correspondent and provided insights on economic and political landscapes. His works reflect a commitment to understanding complex societal structures and changing narratives in American life.

Continue Reading

Lee Mavers

Singer and songwriter for The La's
Born
August 2nd, 1962 63 years ago

An English singer, songwriter, and guitarist, this individual gained prominence as the lead vocalist and songwriter for the band The La's. The band's self-titled debut album, released in 1990, featured the hit single 'There She Goes', which became a defining track of the Britpop era. The La's music is characterized by its jangly guitar sound and catchy melodies, which drew influence from the Merseybeat sound. Despite facing challenges with recording and lineup changes, this musician's creative vision continued to resonate with audiences. The La's garnered a cult following in the years following their initial success, and their music influenced many emerging bands in the British music scene.

Continue Reading

Karl-Otto Koch

German SS officer in World War II
Born
August 2nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1945 80 years ago — 47 years old

Served as an officer in the Schutzstaffel (SS) during World War II, leading various operations. Oversaw the concentration camps at Buchenwald and later at Dachau. Became involved in various activities associated with the Nazi regime's internment and extermination efforts. His actions as a camp commandant were marked by brutality and harsh conditions for prisoners. Arrested in 1945 by fellow SS members and faced charges for corruption and abuse.

Continue Reading

Keston Hiura

Baseball player, Milwaukee Brewers MVP
Born
August 2nd, 1996 29 years ago

Debuted in Major League Baseball with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2019. Played primarily as a second baseman and first baseman. Achieved notable batting performance during the 2019 and 2020 seasons, showcasing power hitting and offensive skills. Contributed significantly to the team's performance in the National League.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 17th

Panagis Tsaldaris

Greek politician, Prime Minister of Greece
Born
May 17th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1936 89 years ago — 68 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Greece during significant political periods. Held office at different times from 1921 to 1924 and again from 1933 to 1935. Participated extensively in the political landscape of Greece during the interwar years, shaping policies and governance. Elected multiple times to the Hellenic Parliament, contributed to legislative developments and national discussions. Engaged in various political movements and alignments reflecting the challenges faced by Greece during this era.

Continue Reading

Giacomo Zanella

Italian poet and priest, renowned poet
Born
1820 205 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1888 137 years ago — 68 years old

Giacomo Zanella served as an Italian priest and achieved prominence as a poet in the 19th century. His literary works showcased a blend of romanticism and realism, contributing to the Italian literary scene. Many of Zanella's poems were inspired by his deep religious faith, reflecting themes of spirituality and nature. He published several collections that highlighted his poetic style. Zanella’s influence extended beyond poetry, as he played a significant role in the cultural and literary movements of his time.

Continue Reading

Douangchay Phichit

Laotian politician and government official
Born
April 5th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1944, this politician held various significant positions within the Laotian government. Roles included Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. In the 1990s, served as a member of the National Assembly and was involved in shaping governmental policies. His tenure contributed to the political landscape of Laos during a transformative period in its history.

Continue Reading

John Deere

Blacksmith and founder of Deere & Company
Born
February 7th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1886 139 years ago — 82 years old

A blacksmith and businessman established a brand recognized for agricultural machinery. Pioneered the creation of a plow that efficiently tilled the tough Midwestern soil, leading to significant advancements in farming techniques. Founded Deere & Company in 1837, which became one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. The business model emphasized high-quality products and customer service, contributing to the growth of modern agriculture.

Continue Reading

Nandor Fodor

Psychologist and Parapsychologist
Born
May 13th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1964 61 years ago — 69 years old

Born in Hungary, a psychologist and parapsychologist advanced the field of psychical research. Relocated to the United States, authored several influential texts on paranormal phenomena. Explored various cases of paranormal activity, emphasizing scientific analysis in investigations. Contributed to the establishment of the American Society for Psychical Research. His work laid the foundation for future inquiries into parapsychology and related fields.

Continue Reading

Frank G. Slaughter

Physician and author of medical fiction
Born
February 25th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2001 24 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1908, this American authored numerous novels that blended medical themes with engaging storytelling. A medical doctor by training, focused on writing from the 1950s onward, producing works that highlighted the intricacies of the medical profession and personal stories of survival. Several of these novels became bestsellers, appealing to a wide audience and bringing attention to various medical conditions and ethical dilemmas. Additionally, served as a medical consultant for television programs, which helped bridge the gap between real medical practice and entertainment.

Continue Reading