Ken Mattingly
American astronaut, Apollo 16 Command Module Pilot
A distinguished career in NASA as an astronaut included participation in the Apollo, Skylab, and Space Shuttle programs. Command Module Pilot on Apollo 16, completed a mission in April 1972, resulting in the exploration of the lunar highlands. Contributed to various Shuttle missions, including serving as commander on STS-4. Prior experience as a naval aviator and test pilot provided a solid foundation for a career in space exploration. Retired from NASA and continued to work in the aerospace industry.
Served as Command Module Pilot on Apollo 16
Commanded STS-4 mission
Participated in Skylab missions
Other People Born on March 17th
Paul Kantner
Singer-songwriter and guitarist for Jefferson Airplane
Born
March 17th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2016 10 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in the San Francisco music scene, contributed to the formation of the band Jefferson Airplane in 1965. Played a key role as a guitarist and singer-songwriter, helping to shape the countercultural sound of the 1960s. The band achieved significant commercial success with hits such as 'Somebody to Love' and 'White Rabbit.' Kantner also formed the band Jefferson Starship and continued to explore new musical directions throughout his career. His work often reflected themes of social change and political consciousness.
Continue ReadingPatrick Brontë
Irish-English priest and author of poetry
Born
March 17th, 1777 248 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1861 164 years ago — 84 years old
A priest with a strong interest in literature, contributed significantly to the literary world through poetry and works that reflected on society and family. Authored several volumes of poetry, including 'The Cottage in the Wood' and 'On the Death of a Young Lady', demonstrating a thoughtful approach toward themes of nature and mortality. Additionally, served as a vicar in Haworth, England, where a familial literary legacy was cultivated through the notable works of his children, including Charlotte and Emily Brontë.
Continue ReadingMichael Hayden
General and CIA Director
Born
March 17th, 1945 80 years ago
A retired four-star general in the United States Air Force, served as the 20th Director of the Central Intelligence Agency from 2006 to 2009. Played a crucial role in post-9/11 national security initiatives and intelligence reform. Oversaw the implementation of the National Counterterrorism Center and expanded the CIA's global drone program. Served as the Director of the National Security Agency prior to leading the CIA.
Continue ReadingPatrick Hastings
English lawyer and Attorney General
Born
March 17th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1952 74 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1880, a prominent English lawyer and politician served as Attorney General for England and Wales. Renowned for significant legal contributions during a transformative period in British law, played a crucial role in various high-profile cases. Elected as a Member of Parliament, actively participated in legislative processes and governmental affairs, contributing to the development of the justice system in the UK.
Continue ReadingVille Kiviniemi
Finnish politician and mayor
Born
March 17th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1951 74 years ago — 74 years old
Became a prominent political figure in Finland during the early 20th century. Served as the mayor of Oulu, influencing local governance and development. Actively participated in Finnish politics during a crucial time in the nation's history, contributing to the shaping of policies and political structures. Engaged in community building and public service, reflecting the challenges faced by Finnish society during the period.
Continue ReadingWalter Rudolf Hess
Physiologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 17th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1973 52 years ago — 92 years old
A Swiss physiologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of the brain and its functions. Conducted pioneering research on the hypothalamus, elucidating its role in regulating autonomic functions and behavior. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1949 for discoveries regarding the functional organization of the interbrain. Published numerous scientific papers and held prestigious academic positions throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 31st
Tuomas Bryggari
Finnish politician and advocate for workers
Born
December 8th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1964 61 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1881, a Finnish politician played a significant role in labor rights and social welfare in Finland. Active in promoting workers' interests, participated in the Finnish Parliament and contributed to various social reforms. Focused on improving the living conditions of the working class, played a key role in establishing labor unions and advocating for progressive policies. Engaged in numerous political campaigns aimed at enhancing social justice and equity within Finnish society.
Continue ReadingJohn H. Reed
67th Governor of Maine
Born
January 5th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 67th Governor of Maine from 1975 to 1979. Before the governorship, held various leadership roles in local and state government, including serving as a member of the Maine House of Representatives. Played a significant role in state politics during tenure.
Continue ReadingAntónio José de Almeida
Portuguese physician and 6th President
Born
July 27th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1929 96 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the 6th President of Portugal from 1919 to 1923. Almeida was a prominent physician, contributing to medical advancements in the country. His political career included involvement in various government roles, including Minister of Public Works, where significant public infrastructure projects were initiated. Almeida's tenure as president focused on stabilizing the nation during tumultuous times following the Portuguese Republican Revolution.
Continue ReadingRobert S. Mulliken
Physicist and Chemist, Nobel Prize Winner
Born
June 7th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1986 39 years ago — 90 years old
Contributions to quantum chemistry and the development of molecular orbital theory established a framework for understanding chemical bonding. Mulliken's research emphasized the connection between physics and chemistry, leading to advancements in the interpretation of chemical reactions. This work had a significant influence on theoretical and computational chemistry, enabling scientists to explore molecular structures and properties more effectively. Mulliken also served in the Army during World War I and later became a distinguished academic, holding positions at the University of Chicago.
Continue ReadingJan Werich
Czech actor and playwright, collaborated on The Emperor and the Golem
Born
February 6th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1980 45 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in Czech cinema and theatre, worked as both an actor and a playwright. Co-founded the famous theatrical group, Divadloabc, and created memorable film roles in productions such as 'The Emperor's New Clothes' and 'The Golem'. During the 20th century, became a significant cultural icon in Czechoslovakia, blending humor and social commentary in performances. Collaborated with other notable artists to enrich the Czech theatrical landscape, including the direction of various plays and films that showcased a unique style.
Continue ReadingAbe no Seimei
Japanese astrologer and onmyoji
Born
February 21st, 921 1104 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1005 1020 years ago — 84 years old
An influential figure in Japanese history, excelled as an onmyoji and astrologer during the Heian period. Played a significant role in combining Chinese cosmology with Japanese spiritual practices. Served the imperial court and gained a reputation for remarkable divination skills. His legacy includes being the central character in numerous legends and stories, contributing to the mystique surrounding the practice of onmyōdō.
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