Luigi Chinetti
Race car driver and Ferrari team manager
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An Italian-American race car driver, achieved success in sports car racing during the mid-20th century. Won the 1949 24 Hours of Le Mans, driving a Ferrari 166MM. Played a significant role in popularizing Ferrari in the United States, serving as the first official Ferrari importer. Established the North American Racing Team (NART), which contributed to Ferrari's success in North America during the 1960s.
Winning the 1949 24 Hours of Le Mans
Founding North American Racing Team (NART)
Served as Ferrari's official importer in the U.S.
Other People Born on July 17th
Ismail I of Iran
Shah of Persia and founder of Safavid dynasty
Born
July 17th, 1487 538 years ago
Died
1524 502 years ago — 37 years old
Birth occurred in 1487. Ascended to power at the age of 14, establishing the Safavid dynasty in Persia. Implemented Shia Islam as the state religion, thus shaping the religious landscape of Iran. Conquered vast territories and solidified Persian identity through cultural and religious reforms. Defeated rival forces, including the Uzbeks and Ottomans, which expanded the Safavid realm. Engaged in significant battles to secure territorial claims while fostering trade and arts.
Continue ReadingLeif Hoste
Belgian professional cyclist
Born
July 17th, 1977 48 years ago
Born in 1977, a professional cyclist specialized in road racing, particularly notable for competing in the Classics. Achieved significant results in prestigious races throughout his career, representing various teams in the UCI ProTour. Known for a strong performance in one-day races and stage events, with multiple top finishes in major cycling events.
Continue ReadingBrett Goldstein
Comedian, Writer, Actor in 'Ted Lasso'
Born
July 17th, 1980 45 years ago
A British actor, comedian, and writer, this individual gained prominence for portraying Roy Kent in the television series 'Ted Lasso'. Apart from acting, contributions include writing and producing, which further enhanced the acclaim of the show. The series, lauded for its humor and heartfelt storytelling, earned numerous awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards.
Continue ReadingJohn Jacob Astor
Businessman and fur trader
Born
July 17th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1848 178 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent businessman, built a fortune primarily through the fur trade in North America during the early 19th century. Established the American Fur Company in 1808, which became the largest fur trading business in the United States. Invested in real estate in New York City, contributing significantly to the city's development. Astor was a key figure in the early American economy, known for his role in the expansion of the fur industry and real estate ventures. His wealth made him one of the first multimillionaires in the United States.
Continue ReadingJames Somerville
English admiral and politician
Born
July 17th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1949 77 years ago — 66 years old
An English admiral and politician served notably as Lord Lieutenant of Somerset. Played a crucial role during both World Wars, particularly in naval operations. Actively involved in military strategy and command, influencing several key engagements and outcomes. Contributed to political discussions surrounding military affairs in the post-war period.
Continue ReadingOG Anunoby
British basketball player, Toronto Raptors
Born
July 17th, 1997 28 years ago
Played college basketball for the University of Indiana. Selected in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors. Contributed to the Raptors' success during their championship run in the 2018-2019 season, where the team won the NBA Championship. Recognized for defensive skills and versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Gus Winckel
Dutch lieutenant and pilot
Born
1912 114 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 101 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Netherlands Air Force and demonstrated notable aerial skills during his military career. Played a key role in the Dutch air operations post-World War II, contributing to the establishment of air defense strategies. Engaged in various missions that highlighted the importance of aerial reconnaissance and tactical aerial support for military operations. His career spanned several decades, transitioning from military service to civil aviation roles.
Continue ReadingJohn Hollander
Poet and literary critic with notable works
Born
October 28th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
An American poet, critic, and educator contributed significantly to contemporary poetry and literary criticism. Published numerous collections of poetry including 'Fable' and 'The Picture Window'. Served as a professor at several esteemed institutions, including Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania. Contributed articles and essays to major literary journals and was influential in shaping modern poetry's landscape through both creative work and critical analysis.
Continue ReadingPierre Vassiliu
French singer-songwriter and performer
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in French music, Vassiliu began his career in the 1960s and gained popularity with his poetic lyrics and distinctive voice. His music often blended various genres, including folk and chanson. One of his most recognized songs, 'Jean-Christian,' showcased his unique storytelling ability and resonated with a wide audience. Over the years, he produced numerous albums and contributed to the French music scene with both original compositions and adaptations. His work reflected the cultural shifts in France during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingOdilia Dank
American educator and politician
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old
An educator and politician served in the New Mexico House of Representatives. Contributed to various educational initiatives and reforms. Advocated for improved educational policies and support for teachers and students. Participated in community outreach and local governance.
Continue ReadingLászló Paskai
Hungarian cardinal and church leader
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, holding significant positions within the Hungarian ecclesiastical hierarchy. Paskai attended several synods and played a vital role in church administration and reforms. His tenure included efforts to modernize church practices and strengthen community ties during a time of significant change in Hungary following the end of communism. He also represented the Hungarian bishops at various international events, fostering dialogue and collaboration within the global church.
Continue ReadingFranco Sensi
Italian businessman and politician
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 82 years old
A businessman and politician involved in the sports sector, influential in the management of a major football club. Served as president of AS Roma, overseeing significant successes during tenure. Engaged in various social initiatives, contributing to community development. Worked to promote the football club and enhance its reputation both locally and internationally.
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