Lindsay Anderson
English director and screenwriter
An English director and screenwriter, played a significant role in British cinema. Featured prominently in the British New Wave movement, directed the acclaimed film 'If....' in 1968, which explored themes of rebellion in a British boarding school. Played a key part in the film 'O Lucky Man!' in 1973, which combined social commentary with absurdist humor. Worked extensively in theater, directing influential stage productions.
Directed 'If....' (1968)
Directed 'O Lucky Man!' (1973)
Other People Born on April 17th
Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius
Botanist and explorer of Brazil
Born
April 17th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1868 157 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent botanist and explorer, contributions focused on the flora of Brazil. Studied botany extensively, leading expeditions to collect plant specimens. Worked on the classification and documentation of various plant species. Developed significant works, including 'Flora Brasiliae.' Additionally, served as a naturalist and produced detailed accounts of Brazilian ecology and culture during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingDheeran Chinnamalai
Indian commander of the 18th century
Born
April 17th, 1756 269 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1805 220 years ago — 49 years old
Born in 1756, a notable military commander in India. Played a significant role in the resistance against British colonial expansion. Led forces in the Kongu region and engaged in battles to protect local sovereignty. Formed alliances with various local chieftains and organized effective counter-attacks against British troops. His strategies contributed to the regional resistance efforts during a turbulent period in Indian history.
Continue ReadingAnja Silja
German soprano and actress in opera
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Born in Germany, a renowned soprano and actress emerged in the world of opera. Extensive career included performances in major opera houses worldwide. Achieved acclaim for portrayals in works such as 'Salome' and 'Ariadne auf Naxos'. Also participated in various theatrical productions, showcasing versatility across genres. Collaborated with several prestigious orchestras and conductors, significantly contributing to the operatic repertoire.
Continue ReadingBen Barnes
American businessman and politician
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Served as the 36th Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1969 to 1973. Played a significant role in Texas politics during the late 20th century. Focused on education reform and public transportation issues while in office. Was also involved in various business endeavors after leaving public service.
Continue ReadingBuster Williams
Jazz bassist and composer
Born
April 17th, 1942 83 years ago
A prominent jazz bassist and composer, contributions span several decades in the music industry. Early collaborations included work with renowned artists such as McCoy Tyner and Art Davis. Williams became a significant figure in the jazz scene, recognized for his innovative approach to bass playing. He participated in numerous recordings, showcasing his skill and creativity. Notable projects include work on the album 'Crystal Silence' alongside Chick Corea and Gary Burton, which set a standard for jazz fusion.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Battista Riccioli
Astronomer, wrote Almagestum Novum
Born
April 17th, 1598 427 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1671 354 years ago — 73 years old
An Italian priest and astronomer significantly contributed to the field of astronomy through the publication of Almagestum Novum in 1651. This work included extensive observations of celestial bodies, the formulation of new astronomical models, and the introduction of a system to classify stars. Riccioli's keen observations, particularly regarding the moon's surface, led to the first systematic study of lunar features. Additionally, he was instrumental in establishing the names of numerous lunar features that are still in use today.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 30th
Jack Marshall
New Zealand Colonel and Prime Minister
Born
March 5th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1988 37 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 28th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1972 to 1973. Practiced law and held the rank of colonel during military service. Engaged in local and national politics, representing the National Party. Contributed to discussions on constitutional reform and served in various governmental roles throughout his career.
Continue ReadingSeamus Heaney
Irish Poet and Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
April 13th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Northern Ireland, a prominent poet and playwright, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. The work often explored themes of nature, history, and personal memory. Gained considerable acclaim for the collection 'Death of a Naturalist', which received the Geoffrey Faber Memorial Prize. Won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1995 for works that unite lyrical beauty with deep human experiences. Also served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing a new generation of writers and poets.
Continue ReadingArthur Fielder
Cricketer, England national team member
Born
July 19th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1949 76 years ago — 72 years old
An English cricketer played as a left-arm medium-fast bowler. Represented England in Test matches during the early 20th century. Made contributions to county cricket, primarily with Kent, during a time when the sport was evolving significantly. The career included notable performances in domestic competitions and international fixtures.
Continue ReadingAli Hadi Bara
Sculptor and educator notable for bronze works
Born
September 9th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1971 54 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1906, this individual became an influential sculptor and educator with a focus on bronze sculptures. His artistic journey spanned multiple regions, blending Iranian and Turkish influences in his works. Various exhibitions showcased his sculptures, which often reflected cultural themes and personal expression. Dedicated to education, he contributed to the development of sculpting as a discipline, mentoring future artists and emphasizing the importance of artistic heritage. His sculptures continue to be appreciated in both Iran and Turkey, highlighting the cultural exchange between the two nations.
Continue ReadingJ. Lee Thompson
Film director of 'The Guns of Navarone'
Born
August 1st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2002 23 years ago — 88 years old
A director, producer, and screenwriter with English and Canadian heritage. Birth occurred in 1914. Notable work included direction of films during the mid-20th century. Directed 'The Guns of Navarone,' which became a classic war film. Collaborated with numerous prominent actors throughout a lengthy career. Also directed several significant adaptations and thrillers, contributing to the genre of action cinema. Received critical acclaim for his work in the film industry, showcasing ability to craft compelling narratives and visual storytelling. In later years, continued to influence the film community through various projects.
Continue ReadingHans Auer
Architect, designed Federal Palace of Switzerland
Born
April 16th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1906 119 years ago — 59 years old
Architect and educator, contributed significantly to the architectural landscape of Switzerland and Austria. Auer's most notable work, the Federal Palace in Bern, serves as the seat of the Swiss Federal Assembly. Educated in various European architectural traditions, Auer influenced modern Swiss architecture through his teaching and design principles. His designs often reflected a blend of functionality and aesthetics, helping to shape public buildings in the region.
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