Lawrence Welk
Accordion player and bandleader
Born
March 11th, 1903
122 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1992
33 years ago — 89 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
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
John Barrowman
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 ReadingBecky Hammon
A former professional basketball player and current coach, this individual played in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) for the San Antonio Stars. After retiring as a player, the individual became an assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA, making history as one of the first female coaches in the league. The coaching career includes leading the Las Vegas Aces to success in the WNBA.
Continue ReadingNigel Lawson
Served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1983 to 1989 under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, overseeing significant economic reforms in the UK. Played a key role in implementing policies that included tax reductions and deregulation of the economy. Resigned from the position amid rising economic challenges, including high inflation and the looming economic crisis of the early 1990s. After his political career, became an influential journalist and authored several books on economics and politics.
Continue ReadingJames H. Douglas Jr.
Served as a lawyer and politician, holding significant positions in government. Functioned as the United States Deputy Secretary of Defense during the early 1960s, where responsibilities included overseeing military operations and defense policy. Engaged in influential decisions during a critical period of the Cold War, contributing to national security strategies. Was involved in various legal and governmental endeavors both prior to and after tenure in the Department of Defense.
Continue ReadingDidier Drogba
Born in Ivory Coast, a professional footballer played primarily as a striker. Achieved significant success with Chelsea FC, where a prolific scoring record and leadership on the field were evident. Contributed to the team's victories in multiple Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. After leaving Chelsea, played for several clubs, including Galatasaray. Also had a successful international career representing the Ivory Coast, participating in multiple Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Continue ReadingJesse Jackson
A prominent civil rights leader, Jackson became a significant figure in American politics and social justice efforts. His work focused on issues of racial equality and economic justice. Jackson founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, a civil rights organization, in 1996. He launched two presidential campaigns, in 1984 and 1988, becoming the first African American to receive a significant number of delegates for the Democratic nomination. Jackson also participated in numerous national and international protests advocating for social change, including anti-apartheid efforts in South Africa. His efforts in raising awareness about civil issues have made him a notable figure in American history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Thongbanh Sengaphone
Thongbanh Sengaphone served as a prominent politician in Laos, holding various governmental positions throughout his career. His roles included serving as a Minister of Public Security and as a member of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party. Sengaphone's political activities were closely tied to the governance and security policies in Laos during his time in office. He contributed to the development of party frameworks and state security strategies, particularly in the context of Lao governance. His political tenure was marked by significant events in the country's history, influencing the direction of its internal affairs until his passing in 2014.
Continue ReadingKarl Mantzius
Involved in the Danish theater scene, a significant contributor to stage productions and direction. Held a prominent position in various theaters, including the Royal Danish Theatre. Directed and performed in numerous plays, showcasing talent in both acting and directing. His career spanned several decades until death in 1921.
Continue ReadingJohn Deere
A blacksmith and businessman established a brand recognized for agricultural machinery. Pioneered the creation of a plow that efficiently tilled the tough Midwestern soil, leading to significant advancements in farming techniques. Founded Deere & Company in 1837, which became one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. The business model emphasized high-quality products and customer service, contributing to the growth of modern agriculture.
Continue ReadingWilliam Birdwood
Served as a senior officer in the British Army with significant roles during World War I. Commanded the ANZAC forces during the Gallipoli Campaign, demonstrating strategic military leadership. Led British troops at the Battle of the Somme and commanded the Australian Imperial Force during the war's later stages. His tactics and leadership styles influenced military operations during the conflict.
Continue ReadingJohn C. Breckinridge
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 ReadingLeopold Auenbrugger
A physician developed the technique of percussion for diagnosing diseases. This innovation transformed clinical practices. Initial experiments involved using his own chest as a model to demonstrate the value of tapping and feeling the chest wall to gather diagnostic information. The technique was outlined in a treatise published in 1761, which laid the groundwork for modern physical examination methods. The work emphasized the importance of systematic observation in medicine and was influential in the fields of internal medicine and diagnostics.
Continue Reading