Luc Bondy
Theater director and opera producer
A prominent theater and opera director, associated with various prestigious productions across Europe. Directed the acclaimed production of 'The Last Days of Mankind' in 1992. Engaged with numerous major opera houses including the Paris Opera and the Vienna State Opera. Involved in the creation and direction of several international festivals, contributing to the development of contemporary theater.
Directed 'The Last Days of Mankind'
Produced works at the Paris Opera
Worked with the Vienna State Opera
Other People Born on July 17th
Letsie III of Lesotho
King of Lesotho since 1996
Born
July 17th, 1963 62 years ago
Ascended to the throne in 1996 after his father's death. Served as a constitutional monarch during a period of political instability in Lesotho. Engaged in diplomatic relations and facilitated dialogue among various political factions. Focused on development issues and the enhancement of Lesotho's international standing. Participated in various regional organizations to promote collaboration and peace in Southern Africa.
Continue ReadingCory Doctorow
Author and activist focused on digital rights
Born
July 17th, 1971 54 years ago
An author and activist, contributed extensively to discussions on technology, copyright, and digital rights. Founded the website Boing Boing and served as a co-editor of the site. Wrote several novels, including 'Little Brother' and 'Homeland', which explore the implications of surveillance and authoritarianism in the digital age. Engaged in advocacy for open access and progressive copyright reform through various organizations. Regularly speaks on issues surrounding technology and civil liberties.
Continue ReadingEphraim Shay
Engineer who designed Shay locomotive
Born
July 17th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1916 109 years ago — 76 years old
An engineer developed the Shay locomotive, a type of steam engine that proved vital for logging and freight transport on mountainous terrain. This innovative design featured a unique gear-driven system, providing better traction and stability on steep grades. The Shay locomotive became widely used in the timber industry, significantly impacting the efficiency of lumber transport. The manufacturing of Shay locomotives continued long after the initial design, with production spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingJoyce Anelay
English educator and politician
Born
July 17th, 1947 78 years ago
A British educator and politician has served as a member of the House of Lords. Baroness Anelay held the position of Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Contributions to educational policy and leadership in various committees within the House of Lords are significant aspects of her career. Engagement in discussions regarding educational reform and international relations highlights her professional focus.
Continue ReadingGordon Gould
Physicist and laser inventor
Born
July 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old
An American physicist and academic, contributed to the field of optics and photonics. Invented the laser in the 1950s and coined the term 'laser', standing for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Although the invention faced patent disputes, secured a patent in 1977 after several legal battles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingXianfeng Emperor
Emperor of China during Qing Dynasty
Born
July 17th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
1861 165 years ago — 30 years old
Ruled as the Xianfeng Emperor from 1850 to 1861 during a tumultuous period in the Qing Dynasty. His reign was marked by internal strife, including the Second Opium War against Britain and France, which resulted in significant territorial losses and the Treaty of Tientsin. Encountered challenges from various uprisings, notably the Taiping Rebellion, which posed a serious threat to the dynasty's stability. The emperor's efforts to modernize the military and government structures were limited by conservative resistance and external pressures.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 28th
Sidney Nolan
Australian painter famous for Ned Kelly series
Born
April 22nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1992 33 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1917, this Australian painter became renowned for exploring Australian themes through art. The Ned Kelly series remains a significant contribution, depicting the life of the infamous outlaw in a modernist style. His works often showcased a distinctive blend of abstraction and representational techniques. Throughout his career, he experimented with various mediums, including oils and lithographs, and received recognition both nationally and internationally. His career spanned several decades, leading to exhibitions in major galleries across Australia and abroad, effectively cementing a legacy within the world of art history.
Continue ReadingAires de Ornelas e Vasconcelos
Portuguese Archbishop of Angra
Born
September 18th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1880 145 years ago — 43 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Angra from 1894 until 1900. Contributed to the Catholic Church's administration and community engagement on the Azores islands. Played a significant role in church reforms during tenure. Focused on education and religious outreach, enhancing the church’s presence in local communities.
Continue ReadingGeorges Marchal
French actor known for theatrical roles
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1997 28 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent French actor established a successful career in film and theater. Featured in various productions, became a familiar face in French cinema during the mid-20th century. Gained attention for performances in films such as 'Les Misérables' and 'La Fille du Puisatier'. Contributed to the French film industry through both dramatic and comedic roles, leaving a lasting legacy in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingWashington Irving
American short story writer and historian
Born
April 3rd, 1783 242 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1859 166 years ago — 76 years old
An influential American writer, active in the early 19th century, contributed significantly to American literature. Wrote the short stories "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and "Rip Van Winkle," which remain staples of American folklore. Also authored several biographies and essays, showcasing a blend of history and fiction. Engaged in travel writing, reflecting personal experiences and observations in Europe and the United States.
Continue ReadingHermann de Pourtalès
Swiss sailor and Olympic champion
Born
March 31st, 1847 178 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1904 121 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Switzerland, participated in sailing events during his athletic career. Competed in the 1900 Paris Olympics, where sailing was included for the first time. Achieved significant success, winning a gold medal in the 1 to 2 ton sailing class. Dedicated to the sport, contributed to the growth of competitive sailing in Switzerland, particularly in yacht racing.
Continue ReadingJean de Thévenot
French linguist and botanist
Born
June 16th, 1633 392 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1667 358 years ago — 34 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of linguistics and botany. Conducted extensive studies in the Middle East and produced notable works documenting various cultures and languages. His travels and observations led to influential publications, particularly on the flora and fauna encountered during explorations. His linguistic studies examined the languages of the regions visited, providing valuable insights and resources for future scholars and explorers.
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