Madan Lal Dhingra

Indian activist; assassination attempt

Madan Lal Dhingra - Indian activist; assassination attempt
Born

1883
142 years ago

Died

August 17th, 1909
115 years ago — 26 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

India

Links & References

An Indian activist engaged in the struggle for India's independence from British rule. Dhingra studied in London, where he became involved with revolutionary groups advocating for Indian self-rule. He assassinated a British government official in 1909, an act aimed at attracting attention to the independence movement. Following the assassination, Dhingra was arrested and put on trial, where he defended his actions as a means of fighting imperialism. He was executed by hanging, and his actions are remembered as part of the early 20th-century revolutionary movement in India.

Assassinating British official William Hutt Curzon Wyllie

Being executed for revolutionary activities

Defending the cause of Indian independence

Other People Who Died on August 17th

Shaike Ophir

Israeli actor and screenwriter
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1987 37 years ago — 58 years old

Ophir was an Israeli actor and screenwriter. He gained prominence in Israeli cinema and theater. Notable works include performances in films such as 'Sallah Shabati' and 'Kazablan.' Ophir also contributed to television series, bringing his talents to a broader audience. His career encapsulated some of the changing dynamics in Israeli culture and entertainment during his time.

Continue Reading

Paul Williams

Singer and choreographer for The Muppets
Born
July 2nd, 1939 85 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1973 51 years ago — 34 years old

A prominent figure in the music and entertainment industry, contributions include writing and performing hits for various artists and television shows. Williams co-wrote iconic songs such as "Rainbow Connection" and "Evergreen". As a choreographer, worked on projects for The Muppets, contributing to the show's distinctive style. Received an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Evergreen" from the film 'A Star Is Born'. Williams' career spans decades, during which involvement in television and film remains significant.

Continue Reading

Gus Winckel

Dutch lieutenant and pilot
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2013 11 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 Reading

Lorenzo Da Ponte

Opera librettist for Mozart's works
Born
March 10th, 1749 276 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1838 186 years ago — 89 years old

An Italian-American priest and poet, contributed significantly to the world of opera through collaborations with composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Wrote librettos for several operas including 'The Marriage of Figaro,' 'Don Giovanni,' and 'Cosi fan tutte.' After moving to America, engaged in various pursuits, including founding an Italian-language school in New York. His literary contributions continue to be celebrated in the realms of music and literature.

Continue Reading

Ted Whitten

Australian football player and journalist
Born
July 27th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1995 29 years ago — 62 years old

Played for the Essendon Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL) from 1951 to 1970, achieving great success in the sport. Served as a prominent football commentator after retirement and contributed to journalism. Represented Australia in international matches, earning recognition for playing at the highest level.

Continue Reading

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Jr.

American lawyer and politician
Born
August 17th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 36 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a lawyer and politician in the United States. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from New York in 1955, serving until 1959. During tenure, focused on issues related to civil rights, education, and labor. Worked in various legal capacities, including as an attorney for the New York City Transit Authority. Engaged in numerous philanthropic efforts and was active in several civic organizations throughout his life.

Continue Reading