Kenan Evren
Turkish General and 7th President
A military figure and politician, served as a general in the Turkish Army. Led a coup d'état in 1980, establishing a military regime in Turkey. Oversaw significant political and social changes during this period. Served as the 7th President of Turkey from 1982 to 1989. Implemented constitutional changes and reforms, influencing the political landscape of the country. After his presidency, faced legal challenges related to actions during the coup.
Led the 1980 military coup in Turkey
Served as President from 1982 to 1989
Other People Born on July 17th
Naser al-Din Shah of Qajar Iran
Monarch of Iran and modernizer.
Born
July 17th, 1831 194 years ago
Reign lasted from 1848 to 1896. Oversaw the introduction of modernization efforts in Iran, including changes in infrastructure, communication, and the military. Initiated the first major reforms in education and administration. First Persian monarch to travel to Europe, furthering diplomatic relations. His reign also saw the establishment of the first Iranian newspaper and the introduction of photography.
Continue ReadingBertrand Goldberg
Architect, designer of Marina City
Born
July 17th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 84 years old
An American architect specialized in innovative urban designs and high-rise structures. Marina City in Chicago, featuring iconic cylindrical towers, became a hallmark of modern architecture. Goldberg contributed to the development of community-focused living spaces, emphasizing both aesthetics and functionality. His architectural vision embraced the integration of nature and urban environments, and he often experimented with concrete as a building material. The architect's work extended beyond iconic buildings, influencing city planning and residential design during a transformative period in American architecture.
Continue ReadingBerenice Abbott
American photographer with urban landscapes
Born
July 17th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1991 34 years ago — 93 years old
Prominent photographer specialized in capturing urban life and architecture in the early to mid-20th century. Focused on documenting New York City, capturing its dynamic changes with clarity and detail. Transitioned from working under Man Ray in Paris to returning to the United States, where projects emphasized the contrast between old and new cityscapes. Created the series 'Changing New York', exploring the transformations of the city through a comprehensive photographic survey. Later contributed to the broader field of photography with her commitment to innovative techniques and aesthetics.
Continue ReadingArt Linkletter
Television host of 'People Are Funny'
Born
July 17th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2010 15 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1912, a Canadian-American television and radio host gained prominence during the mid-20th century. He hosted the popular television show ‘People Are Funny’, which ran from 1949 to 1961. The show featured various comedic segments and games, engaging viewers with its light-hearted format. Linkletter also hosted ‘Kids Say the Darndest Things’, showcasing children's humorous and candid responses to questions. His career in broadcasting spanned several decades and included numerous guest appearances and special programs. Linkletter published several books and remained a significant figure in the entertainment industry until his later years.
Continue ReadingWillis Carto
American activist and theorist
Born
July 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
An American activist and theorist, contributed to right-wing movements and organized numerous events promoting his ideological views. Founded the Liberty Lobby, a political advocacy group, which sought to influence American politics and public opinion. Established the Institute for Historical Review, a controversial organization focusing on Holocaust revisionism. Promoted various publications and engaged in significant fundraising activities for his initiatives.
Continue ReadingLucie Arnaz
American actress and singer from 'Here’s Lucy'
Born
July 17th, 1951 74 years ago
Born in 1951, Lucie Arnaz gained recognition as an actress and singer. Arnaz starred in the television series 'Here's Lucy' alongside her mother, Lucille Ball. She continued to perform in various stage productions and musicals, showcasing her talents in both acting and singing. Arnaz's work extended to directing and producing, contributing to various projects throughout her career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 9th
Chuck Daly
Basketball coach, 1990 NBA Championship
Born
July 20th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2009 17 years ago — 78 years old
Basketball coaching career spanned several decades, culminating in a successful run with the Detroit Pistons. Served as head coach from 1983 to 1992, leading the team to two NBA Championships in 1989 and 1990. Coached the original 'Dream Team' at the 1992 Olympics, which included several of the sport's greatest players. Prior to coaching in the NBA, served as head coach at various levels, including college basketball. Daly's coaching philosophy emphasized team defense and fundamentals, contributing to his teams' success on the court.
Continue ReadingRobert Miles
Swiss-Italian DJ and trance music producer
Born
November 3rd, 1969 56 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2017 9 years ago — 47 years old
This Swiss-Italian DJ and producer gained prominence in the 1990s, particularly within the trance music genre. The single 'Children' released in 1996 became a global hit, characterized by its emotive melodies and innovative use of piano and synthesizers. The song topped charts in multiple countries and received several awards, establishing a lasting legacy in electronic music. Miles continued to release albums, including 'Dreamland' and '23am', which further showcased his distinctive sound. He was also involved in various projects and collaborations throughout his career, influencing the development of trance music in Europe and beyond.
Continue ReadingGeorge M. Leader
American politician, 36th Governor of Pennsylvania
Born
January 17th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2013 13 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 36th Governor of Pennsylvania from 1955 to 1959. Played a significant role in enhancing education within the state. Worked to improve infrastructure and addressed public health issues during tenure. After leaving office, remained active in public life, contributing to various philanthropic efforts and maintaining a presence in state politics.
Continue ReadingRieko Kodama
Japanese game developer, Phantasy Star
Born
1963 63 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2022 4 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent game developer contributed to the creation of several influential video games in the role-playing genre. Joined Sega in the 1980s and played a significant role in the development of the Phantasy Star series, which became a cornerstone for console RPGs. Additionally, worked on titles such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Skies of Arcadia. Pioneered opportunities for women in the gaming industry, becoming a respected figure among peers and aspiring developers alike. Continued to influence game design and storytelling until passing in 2022.
Continue ReadingOttavio Missoni
Fashion designer and Olympic hurdler
Born
February 11th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2013 13 years ago — 92 years old
An Italian hurdler and fashion designer, founded a famous fashion brand that became synonymous with colorful knitwear and distinctive patterns. Competed in the 1948 London Olympics, finishing fifth in the 400-meter hurdles. Established the Missoni label with a focus on textile innovation and craftsmanship, leading to worldwide recognition. The brand's unique aesthetic resonated in both the fashion and home decor industries, influencing trends in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingHarlan Mathews
American politician and lawyer
Born
January 17th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2014 12 years ago — 87 years old
Raised in Gallatin, Tennessee, served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Worked as an attorney, specializing in corporate law. Held various political offices in Tennessee, including serving in the Tennessee State Senate. Appointed as a United States Senator to fill a vacancy, representing Tennessee from 1994 to 1995. After leaving the Senate, continued to engage in legal practice and public service, influencing local political discussions.
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