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
Conor Garland
Ice hockey player for the Vancouver Canucks
Born
March 11th, 1996 30 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, made significant contributions to the sport as a forward. Played for the Arizona Coyotes and later joined the Vancouver Canucks. Contributed positively to the teams' offensive play and earned recognition for consistent scoring abilities. Emerged as a notable player in the NHL, showcasing skills and determination throughout the seasons. Participated in junior hockey and was awarded for his performance, paving the way for a successful career in the NHL.
Continue ReadingDidier Drogba
Ivorian footballer, Chelsea FC striker
Born
March 11th, 1978 48 years ago
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 ReadingWillie Banks
American triple jumper with Olympic history
Born
March 11th, 1956 70 years ago
A prominent triple jumper achieved significant success in the 1980s. Competed in the 1984 Summer Olympics and won a bronze medal in the triple jump. He also won a gold medal at the 1983 World Championships. Set a personal best of 17.97 meters and was instrumental in popularizing the triple jump event.
Continue ReadingWarwick Taylor
Rugby player, 1987 World Cup champion
Born
March 11th, 1960 66 years ago
Played as a centre for the New Zealand national rugby team during the 1980s and early 1990s. Contributed to the team's success in the inaugural 1987 Rugby World Cup, securing the title. Played club rugby for various teams, including the Waikato. Noted for strong performances and tactical skills on the field.
Continue ReadingArturo Merzario
Italian race car driver and team owner
Born
March 11th, 1943 83 years ago
Competed in Formula One racing from 1970 to 1976, participating in 43 races. Achieved notable success with private teams, securing his first Formula One entry with the Merzario team. Participated in prestigious events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with multiple entries. Transitioned into a career as a team owner and manager after retiring from driving.
Continue ReadingDavid Anders
Actor recognized for 'Alias' role
Born
March 11th, 1981 45 years ago
An American actor gained prominence through work in television series and films. Achievements include starring as Julian Sark in the television series 'Alias'. Also portrayed Dr. Noah Benedict in the series 'Heroes'. Throughout a career spanning several years, appeared in various roles across different genres, contributing to popular and cult television shows.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Asa Packer
American businessman and university founder
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1879 147 years ago — 74 years old
A businessman from Pennsylvania, established a significant fortune in the railroad industry. Founded Lehigh University in 1865, contributing to higher education in the region. Involved in various philanthropic efforts aimed at supporting education and infrastructure development in Pennsylvania. His investments in railroads had a lasting influence on regional commerce.
Continue ReadingMario Benedetti
Uruguayan author and poet
Born
September 14th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2009 17 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in Latin American literature, this individual authored numerous novels, plays, and poems. Works include 'La Tregua', which explores themes of love and loss, and 'El Hombre que Plantaba Árboles', a celebrated short story. Contributions to journalism included commentaries on social and political issues, reflecting a deep engagement with Uruguayan society. The literature often examined the human condition and the struggles of everyday life, resonating widely with readers. Active in the political landscape, this individual faced exile during periods of political unrest in Uruguay.
Continue ReadingPeter Schulz
German lawyer and Mayor of Hamburg
Born
April 25th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 83 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the Mayor of Hamburg during the early 1980s. Engaged in local governance, focused on urban issues and public administration. Advocated for policies aimed at improving the quality of life in Hamburg. Contributed to the development of the city's infrastructure and community programs.
Continue ReadingLi Maozhen
Chinese warlord and king
Died
May 17th, 924 1102 years ago — None years old
Li Maozhen served as a powerful warlord and king during the late Tang dynasty. He established control over the region of Shuzhou in what is now Sichuan province. His reign was marked by significant military and political maneuvers aimed at maintaining autonomy amid the fragmented power structure of the dynasty. Li claimed the title of king and held sway over the local populace through both military force and political alliances. His authority extended until his death in 924, a period characterized by the disintegration of centralized power in China.
Continue ReadingSamuel Clarke
English minister and philosopher
Born
October 11th, 1675 350 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1729 297 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 ReadingErnest Nash
Photographer and scholar of photography
Born
September 14th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1974 52 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Germany and later residing in Italy, a prominent photographer and scholar dedicated to the study and documentation of photography. Contributed significantly to the understanding of photographic techniques and the history of photography. Held academic positions to teach and share knowledge of visual arts. Produced numerous works that explored the interplay between photography and society. Nash's research included a focus on the evolution of photographic practices across different cultures.
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