Jyoti Basu
Indian politician and Chief Minister
Served as the 9th Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1977 to 2000. Played a significant role in the Indian political landscape, particularly as a leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Led a government that was one of the longest-serving democratically elected communist governments in the world. Instrumental in promoting social welfare programs and agrarian reforms in the state, impacting the lives of many citizens. Resigned from the role in 2000 and became an influential figure in Indian politics until his death in 2010.
Served as Chief Minister of West Bengal for 23 years
Co-founded the Left Front government in West Bengal
Promoted land reforms and rural development policies
Other People Born on July 8th
İpek Öz
Turkish Tennis Player, National Champion
Born
July 8th, 1999 26 years ago
A professional tennis player specializing in singles and doubles. Achieved notable success in junior competitions, and transitioned to the professional circuit in the late 2010s. Represented Turkey in various international tournaments, contributing to the country's visibility in the sport. Participated in ITF Women’s Circuit events and earned several titles, demonstrating skill and consistency on the court.
Continue ReadingY. S. Rajasekhara Reddy
Indian Politician and Chief Minister
Born
July 8th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2009 16 years ago — 60 years old
Served as the 14th Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 2004 until 2009. Implemented several welfare programs focusing on rural development and healthcare. Played a pivotal role in the introduction of the 'Rajiv Yuva Kiranalu' scheme aimed at providing employment to the youth of the state. Died in a helicopter crash in 2009, leading to significant public mourning and tributes across the region.
Continue ReadingMarlon Humphrey
American football cornerback, Super Bowl champion
Born
July 8th, 1996 29 years ago
Professional American football player, primarily played as a cornerback. Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Contributed to the Ravens' Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl LVII and has been recognized for exceptional defensive skills and performance.
Continue ReadingJaden Smith
Actor and rapper in 'The Pursuit of Happyness'
Born
July 8th, 1998 27 years ago
Born in 1998, this individual is an American actor and rapper. Gained widespread recognition for the role in the movie 'The Pursuit of Happyness' alongside Will Smith. Transitioned into music, releasing several projects that blend genres and showcase a unique style. Engages in philanthropy and activism, particularly focused on environmental issues and social justice. Continues to evolve as an artist in both film and music, maintaining a presence in popular culture.
Continue ReadingMaya Hawke
Actress known for 'Stranger Things'
Born
July 8th, 1998 27 years ago
Born in 1998, she is an American actress and model. Gained prominence with a role in the Netflix series 'Stranger Things,' playing the character Robin Buckley starting in the third season. Also appeared in Quentin Tarantino's film 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood'. Pursued a career in music, releasing debut albums that showcase her musical talent. Through these projects, she has established a multifaceted career in entertainment.
Continue ReadingAriel Camacho
Mexican singer-songwriter and musician
Born
July 8th, 1992 33 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 22 years old
Began a music career in early 2010s and achieved popularity within the regional Mexican music genre. Gained recognition for contributions to the banda and norteño styles. Released debut album which featured both original songs and covers, leading to significant success in music sales and streaming. Collaborated with various artists in the genre and became a prominent figure in Mexican music culture before untimely death.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 17th
Francine Lalonde
Canadian politician and educator
Born
August 24th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2014 12 years ago — 73 years old
Served as a member of the House of Commons in Canada, representing the Bloc Québécois from 1993 to 2004 and again from 2006 to 2008. Contributed to significant discussions on issues pertaining to education and social policy. Before entering politics, worked extensively in education and community services, emphasizing the importance of public advocacy for educational reforms and community support. Involved in various committees, shaping legislation and policy.
Continue ReadingEdward Shepherd Creasy
Historian and jurist, author of 'Fifteen Decisive Battles'
Born
September 12th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1878 148 years ago — 65 years old
Creasy was an English historian and jurist. Education included studying at the University of Oxford. He served as a member of the bar and held a position as a judge in the British legal system. Creasy’s written works contributed to historical scholarship, particularly in the analysis of military history. The book 'Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World', published in 1851, gained significant attention for its examination of key battles and their impacts on history. This work remains a reference for military historians and students alike. Later in life, he became involved in politics and served as a member of the House of Commons. Creasy's contributions to history and law are recognized through his published works and judicial roles.
Continue ReadingDidier Guillaume
French politician, Minister of State of Monaco
Born
1959 67 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2025 1 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the Minister of State of Monaco, overseeing governmental functions and policy formulation. Played a pivotal role in the administration, managing relations with the French government and European Union. Held various positions within the French government prior to the role in Monaco, contributing to regional development and governance. His tenure included addressing economic challenges and promoting Monaco's interests on the international stage.
Continue ReadingDerek Fowlds
British actor on 'Yes Minister'
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2020 6 years ago — 83 years old
Derek Fowlds was a British actor recognized primarily for his role as Bernard Woolley in the television series 'Yes Minister' and its sequel 'Yes, Prime Minister'. His acting career spanned several decades and included work in theater, film, and television. Fowlds appeared in other notable television series, including 'The Basil Brush Show' and 'Heartbeat'. He also had a successful stage career, performing in various productions in London's West End. Fowlds was active in the entertainment industry from the 1960s until his passing in 2020.
Continue ReadingMatthäus Daniel Pöppelmann
German architect known for Zwinger Palace
Born
May 3rd, 1662 363 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1737 289 years ago — 74 years old
An accomplished architect, primarily active in the early 18th century, contributed significantly to the Baroque architectural landscape in Germany. Most recognized for the Zwinger Palace in Dresden, this structure exemplifies the grandeur of Baroque design. Pöppelmann also played a prominent role in the construction of other notable buildings in Dresden, incorporating intricate designs and elaborate ornamentation. His works reflect the artistic trends of the time, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Continue ReadingHermann Schlegel
Ornithologist and herpetologist
Born
June 10th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1884 142 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed to the fields of ornithology and herpetology in the 19th century. Mainly focused on the study of birds and reptiles, and published significant works on their classification and biology. Served as a curator at the Natural History Museum in Berlin, where substantial collections were researched and documented. Notable for contributions to the understanding of avian and reptilian species which influenced future studies in these areas.
Continue Reading