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
Tristan 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 ReadingJosé Luis López Vázquez
Spanish actor in 'El verdugo'
Born
March 11th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2009 16 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent figure in Spanish cinema, this actor’s career spanned over five decades, beginning in the 1940s. Achievements include work in cinema, theater, and television. Notable films include 'El verdugo', a black comedy that garnered critical acclaim and showcased a unique blend of humor and tragedy. Acted in various other notable films and plays, contributing significantly to the arts in Spain. The versatility in roles spanned from comedy to drama, showcasing a profound influence on Spanish cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingJohn 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 ReadingDaniel Vázquez Evuy
Equatoguinean footballer, played for clubs
Born
March 11th, 1985 41 years ago
Born in 1985, a footballer played as a midfielder. Played for the Equatorial Guinea national team and participated in multiple international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations. Had a career spanning several clubs, showcasing skills in both domestic and international leagues. Contributed to the growth of football in Equatorial Guinea through participation in national events and representation.
Continue ReadingDock Ellis
Baseball player and coach, no-hitter pitcher
Born
March 11th, 1945 81 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2008 17 years ago — 63 years old
A professional baseball player and coach had a career spanning from the mid-1960s to the early 1980s. Primarily a pitcher, achieved notoriety with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Threw a no-hitter on June 12, 1970, against the San Diego Padres, which was notable not only for the achievement but also for occurring while under the influence of LSD. Later transitioned to coaching and was involved in minor league and independent baseball. Advocated for social justice and player rights throughout his career.
Continue ReadingBecky Hammon
Basketball coach and player, WNBA star
Born
March 11th, 1977 49 years ago
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Frank G. Slaughter
Physician and author of medical fiction
Born
February 25th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2001 25 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1908, this American authored numerous novels that blended medical themes with engaging storytelling. A medical doctor by training, focused on writing from the 1950s onward, producing works that highlighted the intricacies of the medical profession and personal stories of survival. Several of these novels became bestsellers, appealing to a wide audience and bringing attention to various medical conditions and ethical dilemmas. Additionally, served as a medical consultant for television programs, which helped bridge the gap between real medical practice and entertainment.
Continue ReadingMichel-Jean Sedaine
French playwright and librettist
Born
July 4th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1797 229 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 ReadingPanagis Tsaldaris
Greek politician, Prime Minister of Greece
Born
May 17th, 1868 158 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1936 90 years ago — 68 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Greece during significant political periods. Held office at different times from 1921 to 1924 and again from 1933 to 1935. Participated extensively in the political landscape of Greece during the interwar years, shaping policies and governance. Elected multiple times to the Hellenic Parliament, contributed to legislative developments and national discussions. Engaged in various political movements and alignments reflecting the challenges faced by Greece during this era.
Continue ReadingC. P. Krishnan Nair
Businessman, founder of The Leela Hotels
Born
February 9th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2014 12 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 ReadingJorge Rafael Videla
Argentinian general and President
Born
August 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 13 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 ReadingGunnar Myrdal
Sociologist and economist, Nobel laureate
Born
December 6th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1987 39 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.
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