Kerry Wendell Thornley

American author and theorist

Kerry Wendell Thornley - Thinkers & Philosophers born April 17th, 1938
Born
Died
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

An American author and theorist, contributed to various writings on conspiracy theories and the events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Authored the book 'The Prankster and the Sphinx', which explored topics related to the counterculture and alternative thought. Engaged in the creation of fictional narratives closely tied to significant cultural movements. His work often combined elements of satire and philosophy.

Authored 'The Prankster and the Sphinx'

Contributed to conspiracy theory literature

Other People Born on April 17th

Win Maung

3rd President of Myanmar
Born
April 17th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
1989 37 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1916, served as the third President of Myanmar from 1962 to 1963. Held a significant position in the political landscape during a time of military control in the country. Prior to presidency, held roles such as Minister of Education and Minister of Finance. Played a crucial role in the nationalization policies that reshaped the economic structure of Myanmar. His term ended following the military coup that brought General Ne Win to power.

Continue Reading

Harry Reasoner

American journalist and television anchor
Born
April 17th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent journalist, contributed significantly to American television news. Anchored CBS Evening News alongside Dan Rather and was a founding anchor of ABC's 20/20. Gained recognition for in-depth reporting and investigative journalism. Played an instrumental role in covering major events, including the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. Worked at various major news outlets, leaving a substantial legacy in broadcast journalism.

Continue Reading

Lagle Parek

Estonian architect and politician
Born
April 17th, 1941 85 years ago

An architect and politician contributed significantly to Estonia's administrative framework. Held the position of Estonian Minister of the Interior, overseeing policies related to internal security and administration. Involved in the restoration of Estonia's independence and played a role in shaping modern Estonian governance.

Continue Reading

Joan Lorring

British actress with notable film roles
Born
April 17th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2014 12 years ago — 88 years old

An actress celebrated for appearances in films during the mid-20th century. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'The Corn Is Green'. Featured in productions such as 'The Man in the Grey Flannel Suit' and 'The Best Years of Our Lives'. Lived and worked primarily in the United Kingdom, with a career spanning several decades, including performances on stage and in film.

Continue Reading

James Last

Bandleader and composer, 'Happy Sounds' series
Born
April 17th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 86 years old

A German-American bassist and composer, this individual became renowned for leading a successful orchestral band throughout Europe and beyond, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. The orchestra specialized in a unique blend of popular music and instrumental arrangements, characterized by vibrant and cheerful presentations. Contributions included over 200 albums, with several achieving gold and platinum status. The band performed in various countries, gaining widespread appeal through television appearances and live concerts, establishing a significant presence in popular music.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand Piëch

Automotive engineer and Volkswagen CEO
Born
April 17th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old

An accomplished automotive engineer and businessman, contributions to the automotive industry include leadership roles at Audi and Volkswagen. Oversaw development of the Audi Quattro, a groundbreaking all-wheel-drive vehicle that revolutionized performance standards. Served as Chairman of the Volkswagen Group, guiding the company through significant expansion and innovation. Advocated for engineering excellence, emphasizing performance and quality in vehicle design.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 28th

David Prowse

English actor, Darth Vader in Star Wars
Born
July 1st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

An English actor, bodybuilder, and advocate, gained international fame by portraying Darth Vader in the original Star Wars trilogy. Initially trained in weightlifting and bodybuilding, participated in various competitions before transitioning to acting. Worked extensively in television and film, often cast in villainous roles due to his imposing stature. Besides acting, contributed to various charity initiatives and became a spokesperson for health and fitness. His role in Star Wars solidified a place in cinematic history, becoming an iconic character recognized across generations.

Continue Reading

Constantine VI of Constantinople

Byzantine Emperor, last Byzantine ruler
Born
1859 167 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1930 95 years ago — 71 years old

Ruled as Byzantine Emperor from 780 to 797. Engaged in military campaigns against various enemies including the Byzantines' primary adversary, the Umayyad Caliphate. Initiated reforms in the empire, focusing on military organization and administration. Faced challenges from external threats and internal factions leading to a coup that resulted in deposition.

Continue Reading

Washington Irving

American short story writer and historian
Born
April 3rd, 1783 243 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1859 166 years ago — 76 years old

An influential American writer, active in the early 19th century, contributed significantly to American literature. Wrote the short stories "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and "Rip Van Winkle," which remain staples of American folklore. Also authored several biographies and essays, showcasing a blend of history and fiction. Engaged in travel writing, reflecting personal experiences and observations in Europe and the United States.

Continue Reading

Athanasius Kircher

German priest and scholar, antiquarian
Born
May 2nd, 1601 425 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1680 345 years ago — 79 years old

A 17th-century German priest and scholar contributed significantly to various fields of knowledge, including physics, medicine, and linguistics. Kircher studied at the University of Würzburg and became a member of the Society of Jesus. He published numerous works throughout his lifetime, including 'Mundus Subterraneus', which detailed his theories on geology and volcanology. He also authored 'Arca Noe', tackling the biblical story of Noah's Ark while providing insights into natural history. Kircher established a museum in Rome that showcased many of his collections in archaeology and natural sciences and created one of the first European maps that depicted China.

Continue Reading

Sidney Nolan

Australian painter famous for Ned Kelly series
Born
April 22nd, 1917 109 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1992 33 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1917, this Australian painter became renowned for exploring Australian themes through art. The Ned Kelly series remains a significant contribution, depicting the life of the infamous outlaw in a modernist style. His works often showcased a distinctive blend of abstraction and representational techniques. Throughout his career, he experimented with various mediums, including oils and lithographs, and received recognition both nationally and internationally. His career spanned several decades, leading to exhibitions in major galleries across Australia and abroad, effectively cementing a legacy within the world of art history.

Continue Reading

Richard Wright

American novelist and essayist
Born
September 4th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1960 65 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1908, this individual became a prominent voice in American literature. Writing primarily in the mid-20th century, produced influential works that examined racial tensions and identity in America. The novel 'Native Son' gained significant attention for its portrayal of the African American experience. In addition to novels, authored essays that explored social issues and advocated for civil rights reforms. Also contributed to literary journals and continued to influence future generations through his writings until death in 1960.

Continue Reading