Lee Strasberg
Acting teacher and method acting pioneer
Prominent acting teacher and director developed the method acting technique, significantly influencing American theater and film. Co-founded the Actors Studio in 1947, providing a transformative platform for actors. Mentored numerous notable actors, contributing to their development and success. Held crucial roles in films including 'The Godfather Part II' and 'The Last Tycoon', showcasing his talents in both acting and direction. His legacy continues to shape the craft of acting in contemporary cinema.
Co-founded the Actors Studio
Pioneered method acting
Acted in 'The Godfather Part II'
Directed 'The Last Tycoon'
Other People Born on November 17th
Arman
French-American painter and sculptor
Born
November 17th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
Born in November 1928, a significant figure in the Nouveau Réalisme movement. Emigrated to the United States in the 1960s and became influential in the development of contemporary art. Utilized found objects and mass-produced items to create assemblages and sculptures. Explored themes of consumerism, destruction, and the passage of time through distinctive artistic practices.
Continue ReadingPierre François le Courayer
French theologian and writer
Born
November 17th, 1681 344 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1776 249 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1681, this French theologian contributed extensively to the field of theology through writings that challenged traditional ecclesiastical views. Served as a priest of the Oratory and held significant roles in religious education. Wrote several influential texts, including works on the history of the Church and theological disputes. His most notable work is 'The History of the Councils of the Church', which provided critical insights into the workings and decisions of historical church councils. This work remains a reference in theological studies.
Continue ReadingRem Koolhaas
Architect known for Seattle Central Library
Born
November 17th, 1944 81 years ago
A prominent Dutch architect and academic, contributed significantly to contemporary architecture through innovative designs and theoretical work. Founded the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA), which has been influential in redefining architectural practices. Received the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2000, recognizing a career marked by a series of impactful projects and writings, including the book 'Delirious New York'. Designed notable buildings across the globe, emphasizing urbanism and the implications of contemporary life.
Continue ReadingTom Seaver
Baseball pitcher, 3-time Cy Young Award winner
Born
November 17th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2020 5 years ago — 75 years old
Esteemed as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, this individual played primarily for the New York Mets and the Cincinnati Reds. A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, he made his debut in 1967 and quickly established a reputation for his exceptional skills on the mound. Achieving multiple All-Star selections, this player was instrumental in leading the Mets to their first World Series championship in 1969. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he also garnered three Cy Young Awards for his outstanding performance. After retirement, he continued to contribute to the sport as a broadcaster and mentor to young players.
Continue ReadingDennis Maruk
Ice Hockey Player, 1982 All-Star
Born
November 17th, 1955 70 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, played primarily as a center during the 1970s and 1980s. Started career with the California Golden Seals and also played for the Cleveland Barons, Washington Capitals, and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Achieved a notable milestone in the 1975-76 season by scoring 96 points, leading to an All-Star selection in 1982. Retired with significant career statistics, including over 800 points in the National Hockey League.
Continue ReadingKorbinian Brodmann
Neurologist known for brain mapping
Born
November 17th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1918 107 years ago — 49 years old
Contributed significantly to neuroscience through the development of a cytoarchitectonic map of the human brain. The classification, known as Brodmann areas, identified 52 distinct regions based on differences in cellular structure. Worked in various academic institutions, primarily focusing on the anatomical structure of the cerebral cortex. Published influential research that laid the groundwork for modern brain studies and neuroanatomy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 17th
Giordano Bruno
Italian philosopher and cosmologist
Born
1548 478 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1600 425 years ago — 52 years old
An Italian mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher, contributed to the development of modern thought through the concept of an infinite universe and the idea of multiple worlds. Engaged in debates regarding the nature of the universe, advocating for heliocentrism long before its widespread acceptance. His ideas challenged the geocentric models of the cosmos and often placed him at odds with the Catholic Church. Bruno's work included philosophical dialogues and theological writings that blended ideas from different cultures, particularly Neoplatonism and Hermeticism. He was tried for heresy and executed in 1600, martyring his views on free thought and scientific inquiry.
Continue ReadingJohn M. Allegro
English archaeologist and biblical scholar
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 65 years old
An archaeologist and biblical scholar focused on the Dead Sea Scrolls. Played a significant role in the translation and interpretation of the scrolls, contributing to the understanding of early Jewish and Christian texts. Contributed to various academic discussions regarding ancient religion and its cultural impacts. Published numerous works exploring the intersection of archaeology and scripture.
Continue ReadingJuan de Mariana
Spanish historian and theologian
Born
1536 490 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1624 401 years ago — 88 years old
A Spanish priest and historian played a significant role in the historiography of Spain during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Known for influential works, particularly 'Historia de España,' which provided a comprehensive account of Spain's history from its origins to the late 16th century. The work combined chronological narrative with commentary on political and social issues. Additionally, involvement in the Jesuit order contributed to discussions on theology and history, highlighting the complexities of governance and religion during the period. Through writings, addressed the moral and political implications of historical events, shaping perceptions of the past in Spain.
Continue ReadingLütfi Kırdar
Turkish Minister of Health and Physician
Born
1887 139 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1961 64 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in Turkish medicine and politics. Served as the Minister of Health, overseeing significant improvements in healthcare and public health policies. Advocated for modern medical practices and expanded healthcare access across Turkey. Also played a crucial role in the establishment of various hospitals and health institutions, contributing to the advancement of health services in the nation.
Continue ReadingEdgar Evans
Welsh explorer and noted Antarctic sailor
Born
1876 150 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1912 113 years ago — 36 years old
A Welsh sailor and explorer, significant contributions included participation in the early 20th-century Antarctic expeditions. Played a key role in Robert Falcon Scott's Terra Nova Expedition from 1910 to 1913. The expedition aimed to reach the South Pole and was notable for its scientific investigations and exploration of previously uncharted territory. The journey encountered extreme conditions, leading to a tragic ending for the team in 1912 when they perished while returning from the pole. The expedition's story remains a critical account of early polar exploration.
Continue ReadingSeif Sharif Hamad
Tanzanian politician and opposition leader
Born
October 22nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2021 4 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the main opposition leader in Tanzania for many years. Engaged in politics through the Civic United Front (CUF), a significant party that advocated for democratic reforms. Ran for the presidency in multiple elections, challenging the ruling party's dominance. Worked actively to promote political dialogue and reforms in Tanzania, particularly in Zanzibar, emphasizing issues of governance and human rights.
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