Lawrence Welk
Accordion player and bandleader
An accordion player and bandleader, exhibited talent from a young age, performing in local venues. In 1951, began hosting ''The Lawrence Welk Show'', which became a popular television program featuring music, dancing, and variety acts. The show ran for over a decade and influenced American pop culture. Championed a style known as 'champagne music', combining traditional dance music with a lively presentation. Retired from weekly broadcasts in 1982 but continued producing specials.
Hosted 'The Lawrence Welk Show'
Popularized 'champagne music'
Other People Born on March 11th
Anton Yelchin
Actor in Star Trek and Like Crazy
Born
March 11th, 1989 36 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 27 years old
Born in 1989, this Russian-American actor gained recognition for performances in various film and television roles. Achieved prominence for roles in the 'Star Trek' film series as Pavel Chekov, bringing a fresh interpretation to the character. Delivered acclaimed performances in 'Like Crazy', a romantic drama that highlighted his range and emotional depth. His career was marked by collaborations with various well-known directors and actors, showcasing his acting versatility until his untimely death in 2016.
Continue ReadingAnissa Jones
Child actress from 'Family Affair'
Born
March 11th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1976 49 years ago — 18 years old
An actress became recognized for the role of Buffy in the television series 'Family Affair', which aired from 1966 to 1971. The show featured a wealthy bachelor raising his late brother's orphaned children with the help of a housekeeper. Anissa's portrayal of the sweet and innocent character endeared her to audiences. Despite the show's success, challenges arose in later years, leading to struggles beyond the spotlight. Anissa Jones passed away in 1976, leaving behind a legacy as a talented young performer.
Continue ReadingAnna Bochkoltz
Operatic soprano and composer
Born
March 11th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1879 146 years ago — 64 years old
Born in Germany in 1815, this operatic soprano gained recognition for vocal performances and contributions to music education as a voice teacher and composer. She made significant contributions to the operatic repertoire and was associated with various music institutions, influencing future generations of singers and musicians through her teachings. The soprano's work encompassed both performance and compositional efforts, establishing her as a respected figure in 19th-century German opera.
Continue ReadingNgonidzashe Makusha
Zimbabwean sprinter and long jumper 2008 NCAA Champion
Born
March 11th, 1987 38 years ago
Competed in sprinting and long jumping at both collegiate and international levels. Achieved a notable victory in the 2008 NCAA Championships, marking a significant milestone. Represented Zimbabwe in international competitions, contributing to the country's presence in athletics. Focused on sprint events and excelled in long jump, attaining personal bests in both disciplines.
Continue ReadingCornelius Castoriadis
Economist and philosopher, author of 'The Imaginary Institution of Society'
Born
March 11th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1997 27 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Greece, an economist and philosopher contributed significantly to social theory and philosophy. Focused on the concept of autonomy and the role of imagination in society. Founded the political group Socialisme ou Barbarie, which engaged in ideas about workers' self-management. Written works dissected and critiqued various aspects of modern capitalism and socio-political structures. Engaged with the dynamics of creativity and how they shape human experience, leading to a distinct philosophical viewpoint blending economics and existential thought.
Continue ReadingJohn Barrowman
Actor and singer, starred in Doctor Who
Born
March 11th, 1967 58 years ago
Born in 1967, this Scottish-American actor and singer gained prominence for roles in television and musical theater. Starred as Jack Harkness in the series Doctor Who and its spin-off Torchwood. Barrowman also performed in various stage productions, showcasing vocal talents in musicals. Over the years, he participated in television shows, making appearances in a mix of genres, while also hosting and participating in reality programs. His career spanned both performing and singing, leading to a dedicated fanbase in both the acting and music communities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
John C. Breckinridge
American general and Vice President
Born
January 16th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1875 150 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the 14th Vice President of the United States from 1857 to 1861. Preceded in office by William R. King, assumed office under President James Buchanan. Breckinridge was a member of the Democratic Party and had previously represented Kentucky in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate. During the American Civil War, served as a general in the Confederate Army, leading troops in several battles. After the war, resided in Cuba and later returned to practice law.
Continue ReadingC. P. Krishnan Nair
Businessman, founder of The Leela Hotels
Born
February 9th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
Built a luxury hotel chain in India, transforming the hospitality industry. Founded The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts in 1987, establishing a reputation for excellence in service and design. Expanded the brand into several key cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Developed renowned properties that became landmarks in their respective locations. Contributed to the increase of tourism and hospitality standards in India.
Continue ReadingGeorge Boleyn
English courtier and diplomat
Born
1504 521 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1536 489 years ago — 32 years old
Held the title of 2nd Viscount Rochford and served as a prominent courtier during the Tudor period. Engaged in diplomatic missions on behalf of the English crown, contributing to various political affairs. Appointed Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, overseeing significant logistical and maritime operations. Involved in the court life of Henry VIII and influential in the rise of Anne Boleyn, which intertwined with personal and political dynamics of the time.
Continue ReadingSamuel Clarke
English minister and philosopher
Born
October 11th, 1675 350 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1729 296 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent English minister and philosopher, contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy during the early 18th century. Engaged in debates on metaphysics and ethics, favoring rationalism and the use of logic in religious discourse. Published influential works such as 'A Discourse Concerning the Being and Attributes of God' which discussed the nature of divinity. Clarke also played a role in the development of early modern philosophy, particularly in the areas of free will and moral responsibility.
Continue ReadingGo-Fushimi
Emperor of Japan during the Nanboku-chō period
Born
1288 737 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1336 689 years ago — 48 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1287, serving as the 96th emperor of Japan during a tumultuous period marked by imperial conflict. The reign was characterized by the Nanboku-chō period, which involved the division of loyalty between competing imperial lines. Go-Fushimi's era included ongoing power struggles, notably between the Northern and Southern courts. After abdication in 1298, remained an influential figure during the continued efforts to unify the imperial seat. Passed away in 1336.
Continue ReadingAl-Qa'im bi-Amr Allah
Fatimid Caliph during the 10th century
Died
May 17th, 946 1079 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the Fatimid Caliphate in 934 and ruled until death in 946. Oversaw the period of consolidation in the empire and maintained control over regions including North Africa and parts of the Middle East. His rule marked efforts to establish Ismaili Shi'ism within the territories governed by the Fatimids, promoting religious activities and political stability.
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