Larry Clinton
American trumpet player and bandleader
A prominent figure in the big band era, contributed significantly to the jazz and popular music scenes during the mid-20th century. Led a successful band that gained popularity through radio broadcasts and live performances. Collaborated with various artists and arranged music that was reflective of the swing era. Produced several hit records that showcased trumpet skills and innovative arrangements.
Led the popular Larry Clinton Orchestra
Had major hits such as 'My Reverie' and 'The Cradle Song'
Other People Born on August 17th
John Brahm
Film and TV director, worked on 'The Locket'
Born
August 17th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
1982 44 years ago — 89 years old
A director and production manager, worked primarily in film and television during the mid-20th century. Directed the movie 'The Locket' in 1946, which showcased his skills in creating suspenseful narratives. Contributed to multiple television series, particularly in the genre of mystery. Worked with several notable television networks, enhancing the quality of production during a formative period in the industry. Helped shape various works that would later be regarded as significant in American cinema history.
Continue ReadingCharles I of Austria
Emperor and last monarch of Austria-Hungary
Born
August 17th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
1922 104 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1887, served as Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary from 1916 until 1918. His reign occurred during World War I, a tumultuous period that contributed to the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Following defeat in the war, faced political unrest and was forced to abdicate in 1918. Spent subsequent years in exile and made attempts to regain the throne in Hungary. Later, accepted into the Catholic Church and was canonized by the Catholic Church. Died in 1922 on the island of Madeira.
Continue ReadingJorge Posada
Baseball catcher and five-time All-Star
Born
August 17th, 1971 55 years ago
A celebrated baseball catcher, played for the New York Yankees from 1995 to 2011. Contributed significantly to the team's success during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Won five Gold Glove Awards and was selected to the All-Star team five times. Helped the Yankees secure four World Series championships in 1996, 1998, 1999, and 2000. Recorded over 1,500 hits and ranked among the franchise's top catchers in several offensive categories.
Continue ReadingMark Felt
FBI Agent and Watergate Informant
Born
August 17th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 95 years old
Served as an associate director of the FBI and played a pivotal role in the Watergate scandal as an anonymous whistleblower. Provided information to journalists that led to the exposure of the scandal involving President Richard Nixon's administration. Felt's revelations regarding illegal activities by government officials were crucial in the investigation. After years of anonymity, he publicly revealed his identity in 2005.
Continue ReadingHarve Bennett
Screenwriter and producer for Star Trek
Born
August 17th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2015 11 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed as a writer and producer to multiple Star Trek films and television series. Engaged in the production of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, which became one of the most successful films of the franchise. Involvement with Star Trek III: The Search for Spock and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home further solidified a prominent role in the development of the franchise. Worked extensively in television and produced shows including The Six Million Dollar Man and The Bionic Woman, both of which gained significant viewership during their runs.
Continue ReadingColin James
Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 17th, 1964 62 years ago
A prominent figure in Canadian music, this artist gained recognition for a blend of blues, rock, and folk influences. Debut album released in 1988, achieving significant chart success and earning multiple awards. Over three decades, released numerous albums, securing a strong fan base and critical acclaim. Collaborated with various artists and producers, contributing to the evolution of the Canadian music scene. The artist continues to perform and produce new music, maintaining a presence in the industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 2nd
Juan Vicente de Güemes
2nd Count of Revillagigedo, Viceroy
Born
1740 286 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1799 227 years ago — 59 years old
Served as Viceroy of New Spain from 1790 to 1794. Focused on economic reforms, public works, and defense against foreign threats. Implemented agricultural and commercial improvements, enhancing trade and local production. Oversaw the construction of roads and military fortifications, boosting security. Promoted scientific expeditions and education, contributing to cultural development in the region. His administration is marked by efforts to modernize the colonial administration.
Continue ReadingBlanche of Artois
French noble and regent of Navarre
Born
1248 778 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1300 726 years ago — 52 years old
Born in 1250, a member of the Capetian dynasty, served as regent of the Kingdom of Navarre following the death of her husband, King Henry I. Played a significant role in maintaining the stability of the kingdom during her son's minority. Involved in the political dynamics of the region, establishing alliances through her daughter's marriage to the King of France. Died in 1300.
Continue ReadingBeverlee McKinsey
American actress on soap operas
Born
August 9th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2008 18 years ago — 72 years old
An American actress gained recognition for roles in popular soap operas. Appeared as Iris Carrington on 'Another World' and as Alexandra Spaulding on 'Guiding Light.' McKinsey's performances contributed to the long-running success of these shows, making significant impacts on the soap opera genre. After a brief departure from acting, made a return to television.
Continue ReadingClara Immerwahr
Chemist and peace activist
Born
June 21st, 1870 156 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1915 111 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1870, a chemist and academic specialized in physical chemistry. Engaged in scientific research while opposing the militarization of science. Served as a lecturer at the Technical University of Berlin. Advocated for pacifism and disarmament, particularly in the context of her husband's work on explosives. Her commitment to peace influenced several movements during her lifetime.
Continue ReadingJoseph McCarthy
American politician and lawyer
Born
November 14th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1957 69 years ago — 48 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin from 1947 to 1957. Gained prominence during the Red Scare for asserting that numerous communists were infiltrating the U.S. government and other institutions. His aggressive investigations and hearings, known as McCarthyism, were marked by accusations without proper evidence, leading to widespread fear and controversy. McCarthy faced opposition from various political figures and media. Eventually, the Senate conducted a censure against him in 1954, which significantly diminished his influence. Died on May 2, 1957.
Continue ReadingMichael Blake
American author and screenwriter, Dances with Wolves
Born
July 5th, 1945 81 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 11 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1945, this American author and screenwriter gained prominence through his work in literature and film. The most notable accomplishment is the screenplay for 'Dances with Wolves', which earned an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. The film, directed by Kevin Costner, received critical acclaim and several Oscars, including Best Picture. In addition to the screenplay, the author wrote the original novel upon which the film is based. Other contributions include screenwriting for projects like 'The Mystery of Edwin Drood' and 'The Last of the Dogmen'. His content often explored themes of Native American culture and the human experience.
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