José López Portillo

Mexican politician, 51st President

José López Portillo - Mexican politician, 51st President
Born

June 16th, 1920
105 years ago

Died

February 17th, 2004
21 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Mexico

Links & References

Served as the 51st President of Mexico from 1976 to 1982. Implemented economic policies during a time of significant change, addressing issues related to oil nationalization and foreign debt. Championed agrarian reform and expansion of social programs. Promoted culture and education initiatives. His presidency faced challenges leading to a financial crisis while pursuing industrial growth.

Served as President of Mexico from 1976 to 1982

Oversaw nationalization of the banking sector

Promoted significant agrarian reform

Other People Born on June 16th

Murray Leinster

Author known for science fiction writing
Born
June 16th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 80 years old

An American author and screenwriter, a prolific writer contributed significantly to science fiction and speculative fiction. Authored over 1,500 short stories and novels, innovating with themes that explored technology and societal change. Pioneered the concept of interstellar communication in literature. Wrote the screenplay for the early television series "The Twilight Zone," which had a lasting influence on the genre.

Continue Reading

Erich Segal

American author and screenwriter
Born
June 16th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 72 years old

An author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to literature and film. Graduated from Harvard University and taught classics at Yale University. Achieved notoriety with the best-selling novel 'Love Story', which explored themes of love and loss. Also wrote screenplays, including 'Yellow Submarine'. His works often focused on romantic relationships and social issues, resonating with a wide audience and becoming cultural touchstones.

Continue Reading

Fernando Muslera

Uruguayan footballer and goalkeeper
Born
June 16th, 1986 39 years ago

A professional footballer excelled as a goalkeeper. Played for clubs such as Montevideo Wanderers and Lazio before joining Galatasaray in 2011. Contributed to Galatasaray's success with multiple Turkish Süper Lig titles and domestic cup victories. Represented the national team in several Copa América tournaments and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Continue Reading

Arthur Meighen

Canadian politician, 9th Prime Minister
Born
June 16th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1960 65 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 9th Prime Minister of Canada, leading the country in two terms during the early 20th century. First term lasted from 1920 to 1921, followed by a second term in 1926. Contributed to the Conservative Party's policies and was involved in key legislation during tenure. Worked as a lawyer before entering politics, advocating for various issues impacting Canadian citizens.

Continue Reading

Giacomo Agostini

Motorcycle racer; 15-time World Champion
Born
June 16th, 1942 83 years ago

Achieved considerable success in motorcycle racing during the 1960s and early 1970s. Secured 15 World Championships spanning various categories, primarily in the 500cc and 350cc classes. Competed for teams such as MV Agusta and Yamaha. Transitioned to a managerial role after retiring from professional racing, contributing to the sport's development.

Continue Reading

Edward Davy

Physician and engineer, inventor of the Davy lamp
Born
June 16th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1885 140 years ago — 78 years old

Started a career as a physician before transitioning into engineering. Developed an early safety lamp for mining, significantly improving working conditions in coal mines. Advocated for better health standards in the mining industry. Identified various methods to enhance ventilation in mines, contributing to safer mining practices.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 17th

Hans Hofmann

Painter and abstract expressionist
Born
March 21st, 1880 145 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1966 59 years ago — 85 years old

A German-American painter, Hofmann played a significant role in the development of abstract expressionism and modern art. He emigrated to the United States in 1932 and established a reputation for his vibrant use of color and form. Hofmann's teaching philosophy influenced several generations of artists, emphasizing the importance of intuition and expression over traditional techniques. He produced a substantial body of work that combined elements of Cubism with lyrical abstraction, often reflecting his experiences in both Germany and America. His contributions to art education included founding the Hofmann School of Fine Arts in New York City. Hofmann's work was featured in numerous exhibitions and he was associated with major art movements throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Lee Strasberg

Acting teacher and method acting pioneer
Born
November 17th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1982 43 years ago — 80 years old

Prominent acting teacher and director developed the method acting technique, significantly influencing American theater and film. Co-founded the Actors Studio in 1947, providing a transformative platform for actors. Mentored numerous notable actors, contributing to their development and success. Held crucial roles in films including 'The Godfather Part II' and 'The Last Tycoon', showcasing his talents in both acting and direction. His legacy continues to shape the craft of acting in contemporary cinema.

Continue Reading

Denzil Holles

English politician and 1st Baron Holles
Born
October 31st, 1599 426 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1680 345 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent figure in English politics during the 17th century, served as a Member of Parliament and played a significant role in the political landscape of the time. Contributed to the drafting of the Instrument of Government in 1653. Engaged in various parliamentary debates and reforms during the English Civil War and the Commonwealth period. Strongly opposed King Charles I and supported the Parliamentary cause. Held positions of influence throughout the Restoration period.

Continue Reading

Juan de Mariana

Spanish historian and theologian
Born
1536 489 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1624 401 years ago — 88 years old

A Spanish priest and historian played a significant role in the historiography of Spain during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Known for influential works, particularly 'Historia de España,' which provided a comprehensive account of Spain's history from its origins to the late 16th century. The work combined chronological narrative with commentary on political and social issues. Additionally, involvement in the Jesuit order contributed to discussions on theology and history, highlighting the complexities of governance and religion during the period. Through writings, addressed the moral and political implications of historical events, shaping perceptions of the past in Spain.

Continue Reading

Geronimo

American tribal leader and warrior
Born
1829 196 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1909 116 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent leader of the Apache tribe, played a significant role in the resistance against Mexico and Texas during the Apache Wars. Renowned for guerrilla warfare tactics and strong leadership, confronted U.S. military forces during a series of conflicts. After years of conflict and evasion, surrendered to American troops in 1886. Later became a symbol of Native American resistance and was portrayed in various cultural contexts.

Continue Reading

Wilfrid Laurier

Canadian Prime Minister and lawyer
Born
November 20th, 1841 183 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1919 106 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 7th Prime Minister of Canada from 1896 to 1911. Led the country during a time of significant national growth and fostered the expansion of Canadian confederation. Advocated for a liberal and progressive vision of Canada, promoting immigration and economic development. His government implemented policies expanding railways and offered support for the growth of the west. Laurier also played a crucial role in navigating Canada's relationship with Britain and the United States during his tenure.

Continue Reading