Louis Desaix
French general during Revolutionary Wars
Served as a general in the French Revolutionary Army, participating in several key battles. Gained prominence during the Italian campaigns under General Bonaparte, especially noted for leadership at the Battle of Marengo in 1800. Defended the French interests in various campaigns across Europe. Ultimately died at the Battle of Assa in 1806, remembered for military skill and dedication.
Led troops in the Battle of Marengo
Contributed to the Italian campaigns
Died in action at the Battle of Assa
Other People Born on August 17th
Mark Felt
FBI Agent and Watergate Informant
Born
August 17th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 95 years old
Served as an associate director of the FBI and played a pivotal role in the Watergate scandal as an anonymous whistleblower. Provided information to journalists that led to the exposure of the scandal involving President Richard Nixon's administration. Felt's revelations regarding illegal activities by government officials were crucial in the investigation. After years of anonymity, he publicly revealed his identity in 2005.
Continue ReadingJosef Dobrovský
Czech philologist and historian
Born
August 17th, 1753 273 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1829 197 years ago — 75 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of the Czech language, history, and literature. Played a vital role in the formation of modern Czech philology. Authored essential works on Czech grammar and language structure, enhancing the understanding of Slavic languages. Engaged in historical research that set the groundwork for future scholarship in Czech studies.
Continue ReadingPrincess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld
German Princess, mother of Queen Victoria
Born
August 17th, 1786 240 years ago
Died
1861 165 years ago — 75 years old
Born into the Saxe-Coburg family, this princess married Edward, Duke of Kent, the fourth son of King George III. The union produced one daughter, who later became Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. The princess served a pivotal role in the family circle, fostering connections between the German and British royal families. Her lineage had a lasting influence on European monarchies. She passed away in 1861.
Continue ReadingMarcus Garvey
Jamaican activist and Black Star Line founder
Born
August 17th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1940 86 years ago — 52 years old
Born in Jamaica, a prominent journalist and activist emerged, advocating for the rights and empowerment of people of African descent. Founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in 1914, which aimed to unite and uplift the global African community. Established the Black Star Line, a shipping company intended to facilitate trade and transport for the African diaspora. Promoted the philosophy of Black nationalism and Pan-Africanism, encouraging economic independence and self-reliance among African-Americans. Garvey faced legal troubles, including a conviction for mail fraud, leading to deportation from the United States to Jamaica in 1927. Continued activism in Jamaica and later in London. His ideas and initiatives influenced future civil rights movements.
Continue ReadingMark Salling
American actor and musician, Glee star
Born
August 17th, 1982 44 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2018 8 years ago — 35 years old
Salling rose to prominence as an actor and musician in the late 2000s. He gained widespread recognition for portraying Noah Puckerman in the television series 'Glee', which ran from 2009 to 2015 and focused on a high school glee club. In addition to acting, he released music, including an album titled 'Smoke Signals'. His career experienced significant challenges subsequent to personal controversies and legal issues that garnered media attention. After his passing in January 2018, his work continued to be discussed in the context of the show and its cultural impact.
Continue ReadingEd McCaffrey
American football player and sportscaster
Born
August 17th, 1968 58 years ago
A former professional American football player and sportscaster, made significant contributions on the field as a wide receiver. Played for the San Francisco 49ers, New York Giants, and Denver Broncos during a career spanning from 1991 to 2003. Won three Super Bowl championships, including Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII with the Broncos. Transitioned to broadcasting after retirement, providing analysis and commentary on various sports networks.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 14th
Emmeline Pankhurst
Political activist and suffragist leader
Born
July 15th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1928 98 years ago — 69 years old
A political activist dedicated to women's suffrage in the United Kingdom. Founded the Women's Social and Political Union in 1903, advocating for women's right to vote. Organized demonstrations and campaigns, utilizing militant tactics to draw attention to the cause. Pankhurst was imprisoned several times for her activities. Her efforts contributed significantly to women achieving the right to vote in 1918, largely credited as a pivotal moment in British history.
Continue ReadingRichard Cotton
Australian geneticist and academic
Born
November 10th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2015 11 years ago — 74 years old
A geneticist and academic contributed to the study of genetic diseases and the development of new therapies. Worked at the University of Queensland, focusing on the genetic basis of rare conditions. Became a voice in the field of molecular genetics, particularly in understanding the role of gene mutations in human diseases. Published extensively on genetic research and was involved in several collaborative projects aimed at improving diagnostic methods for various hereditary disorders.
Continue ReadingAntoine
Duke of Lorraine and military leader
Born
June 4th, 1489 537 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1544 482 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1489, this noble served as the Duke of Lorraine from 1508 until his death in 1544. He played a significant role in military and political affairs during the Renaissance period in Europe. Through strategic marriages and alliances, he strengthened the territorial integrity of Lorraine. His leadership during the Italian Wars was notable, where he engaged in various conflicts that shaped the political landscape of the region.
Continue ReadingGünther von Schwarzburg
German king during the 14th century
Born
1304 722 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1349 677 years ago — 45 years old
Ruled as king from 1340 until death in 1349. His reign was marked by political conflicts and struggles for power among various factions in Germany. Engaged in disputes with local nobility and sought to strengthen royal authority. Played a significant role in the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during a turbulent period. His death led to a shift in the balance of power.
Continue ReadingShibata Katsuie
Japanese samurai and general
Born
1522 504 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1583 443 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent samurai and general during the Sengoku period, played a key role in the military campaigns of the Oda clan. Served under Oda Nobunaga, participating in significant battles such as the Battle of Anegawa and the Siege of Inabayama. After the death of Nobunaga, aligned with Toyotomi Hideyoshi and continued to serve in military engagements. Faced a notable defeat during the Battle of Komaki-Nagakute, leading to his eventual downfall. Committed seppuku following his defeat, marking the end of his military career.
Continue ReadingHans Poelzig
Architect and designer of IG Farben Building
Born
April 30th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1936 90 years ago — 67 years old
An architect, painter, and designer focused on expressionist architecture. Designed the IG Farben Building in Frankfurt, which is recognized as a significant work of modern architecture. Contributed to the design of various theaters and exhibition spaces, blending functionality with artistic expression. Worked on projects that reflected the architectural movements of the early 20th century.
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