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
John Barrowman
Actor and singer, starred in Doctor Who
Born
March 11th, 1967 59 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 ReadingFreda Meissner-Blau
Austrian activist and politician
Born
March 11th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1927, an Austrian activist and politician committed to environmentalism and social justice. Co-founded the Austrian Green Party in 1986, advocating for ecological responsibility and sustainability. Served as a member of the Austrian Parliament from 1990 to 1994, representing the interests of green politics. Known for active participation in campaigns addressing nuclear safety, climate change, and civil rights.
Continue ReadingTravis Konecny
Ice Hockey Player - Philadelphia Flyers
Born
March 11th, 1997 29 years ago
Canadian ice hockey player achieved recognition in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a forward for the Philadelphia Flyers. Drafted in the first round, 24th overall, during the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Played a significant role in the team's offensive strategies and development. Developed skills from a young age in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) before transitioning to the NHL. Contributed to various playoff matches and established a reputation for scoring and playmaking abilities.
Continue ReadingVinnie Paul
Drummer for Pantera and Hellyeah
Born
March 11th, 1964 62 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — 54 years old
One of the influential figures in heavy metal music, contributed significantly to the genre through work with Pantera and Hellyeah. Co-founded Pantera in the early 1980s, which became known for its aggressive sound and profound lyrical themes. The band achieved commercial success with albums such as 'Vulgar Display of Power' and 'Far Beyond Driven', both of which topped charts and received critical acclaim. After Pantera disbanded, continued his music career with Hellyeah, further solidifying a legacy in heavy metal. Additionally, produced and collaborated with various artists throughout the years, enriching the heavy metal community with distinctive rhythms and powerful beats.
Continue ReadingTristan Vukčević
Serbian-Swedish Basketball Player
Born
March 11th, 2003 23 years ago
Born in 2003, this basketball player represented Serbia in international competitions and played for the youth teams, showcasing talent in various tournaments. Featuring height and skill, participation in prominent leagues and multiple championships marked the early career, drawing attention from scouts and teams in Europe. The impact on the court emphasized a promising future in professional basketball, contributing to both club and national success.
Continue ReadingAnissa Jones
Child actress from 'Family Affair'
Born
March 11th, 1958 68 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Gunnar Myrdal
Sociologist and economist, Nobel laureate
Born
December 6th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1987 38 years ago — 88 years old
Contributions in the fields of sociology and economics included significant works that examined social issues, economic development, and political structures. Authored 'An American Dilemma: The Negro Problem and Modern Democracy,' which analyzed race relations in the United States. Also wrote 'Towards a Theory of the Circular Causal Relationships' that explored interdependencies in social science. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1974 for the analytical work that linked economic and social issues.
Continue ReadingMichel-Jean Sedaine
French playwright and librettist
Born
July 4th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1797 228 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in the French theatre of the 18th century, contributed to the genre of comic opera. Wrote several successful plays and librettos, collaborating with composers like François Andrieux. Works include the comédie lyrique 'Zémire et Azor' and the play 'L'Épreuve'. His writings reflected the artistic movements of the time and showcased his ability to blend humor with social commentary.
Continue ReadingJohn C. Breckinridge
American general and Vice President
Born
January 16th, 1821 205 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 ReadingGo-Fushimi
Emperor of Japan during the Nanboku-chō period
Born
1288 738 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 ReadingJorge Rafael Videla
Argentinian general and President
Born
August 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 43rd President of Argentina from 1976 to 1981 following a military coup. Led the country during the Dirty War, a period characterized by widespread human rights abuses. Implemented policies aimed at suppressing dissent and promoting economic reforms. Oversaw actions that resulted in the disappearance and torture of thousands.
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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