Mae West
American actress and playwright
One of the most prominent figures in American cinema and theater during the early 20th century. West began her career in vaudeville and gained fame for her risqué and witty comedic style. Iconic for her roles in films such as 'She Done Him Wrong' and 'I'm No Angel', both of which showcased her unique blend of humor and sensuality. West also wrote several plays, demonstrating her talents beyond acting. She was noted for her strong persona that challenged societal norms of her time.
Starred in 'She Done Him Wrong'
Starred in 'I'm No Angel'
Wrote and produced several successful plays
Other People Born on August 17th
Ederson Moraes
Brazilian football goalkeeper, Manchester City
Born
August 17th, 1993 32 years ago
A Brazilian football goalkeeper, he gained recognition for his exceptional skills and contributions to both club and national teams. Starting his professional career at São Paulo FC, he later moved to Portugal to play for Ribeirão and then para Benfica, where he showcased remarkable talent. In 2017, he joined Manchester City, becoming a key player under manager Pep Guardiola. He played a crucial role in the team's multiple Premier League title wins and their first UEFA Champions League title in 2023. On the international stage, he represented Brazil, participating in the Copa America and the FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingF. Ray Keyser Jr.
American politician, Governor of Vermont
Born
August 17th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
Served as Governor of Vermont from 1961 to 1963. Played a role in state politics during the mid-20th century. Participated in various legal practices and contributed to the Democratic Party's efforts in Vermont. Involved in numerous initiatives and programs aimed at improving the state.
Continue ReadingPatrick Manning
Trinidadian politician, former Prime Minister
Born
August 17th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the fourth Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago from 1991 to 1995 and again from 2001 to 2010. Held leadership roles in the People's National Movement and contributed to various legislative reforms during time in office. Participated in regional and international politics, advocating for issues affecting the Caribbean.
Continue ReadingSue Draheim
American fiddler and folk musician
Born
August 17th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 63 years old
An American fiddler, contributions included performances at various folk music festivals and traditional gatherings. Instrumental in promoting and preserving folk music traditions, particularly in the Appalachian style. Collaborated with multiple artists in the folk music scene, showcasing skills in both solo and group settings.
Continue ReadingJosef Dobrovský
Czech philologist and historian
Born
August 17th, 1753 272 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1829 196 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 ReadingJorge Posada
Baseball catcher and five-time All-Star
Born
August 17th, 1971 54 years ago
A celebrated baseball catcher, played for the New York Yankees from 1995 to 2011. Contributed significantly to the team's success during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Won five Gold Glove Awards and was selected to the All-Star team five times. Helped the Yankees secure four World Series championships in 1996, 1998, 1999, and 2000. Recorded over 1,500 hits and ranked among the franchise's top catchers in several offensive categories.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 22nd
Walter Reed
Physician known for yellow fever research
Born
September 13th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1902 123 years ago — 51 years old
A physician and biologist contributed significantly to medical science through research on infectious diseases. Reed led the research team that established the mode of transmission of yellow fever, demonstrating that the disease was spread by mosquitoes. This work laid the groundwork for effective control measures and had a lasting impact on public health policy. Reed served as a prominent figure in the U.S. Army Medical Corps and contributed to advancements in the field of bacteriology and tropical medicine.
Continue ReadingJ. D. Tippit
American police officer involved in JFK case
Born
September 18th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1963 62 years ago — 39 years old
Born in 1924, a police officer in Dallas, Texas. Played a significant role during the investigation of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963. Tippit was shot and killed while attempting to apprehend a suspect shortly after the assassination, marking a pivotal moment in the chaotic aftermath. His death garnered national attention and highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers.
Continue ReadingLorenz Hart
American playwright and lyricist of songs
Born
May 2nd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1943 82 years ago — 48 years old
A celebrated American playwright and lyricist, this individual made significant contributions to musical theater in the early 20th century. Collaborating primarily with composer Richard Rodgers, numerous songs were crafted that became standards in American music. The partnership produced a vast body of work, including celebrated musicals and songs that captured the essence of their era. Notable works include 'Babes in Arms' and 'Pal Joey', which showcased lyrical wit and emotional depth. The collaborations left a lasting legacy in the theater and music industry.
Continue ReadingNorman Granz
Record producer and jazz promoter
Born
August 6th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1918, a significant figure in the world of jazz music, particularly recognized for founding the Verve Records label. Helped to establish the careers of many prominent jazz musicians and played a crucial role in promoting their work. Managed iconic performances and jazz festivals, showcasing talent across the globe. Advocated for civil rights within the music industry, ensuring that musicians received fair treatment. His contributions facilitated the accessibility of jazz to wider audiences, blending various styles and artists.
Continue ReadingOtto Georg Thierack
German jurist and politician
Born
April 19th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1946 79 years ago — 57 years old
A significant jurist and politician from Germany, served as Minister of Justice from 1942 to 1945 during the Nazi regime. Thierack was involved in the implementation of various legal policies aligned with the government's agenda. In the post-war period, he faced prosecution due to his involvement in the regime's judicial system. Thierack was a member of the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP) and contributed to many legal reforms during his tenure. His legal career was marked by controversial decisions that aligned with the state’s policies.
Continue ReadingJohn Tillotson
English Archbishop and preacher
Born
1630 395 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1694 331 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury in the late 17th century. Played a key role in the development of Anglican theology and preached against religious intolerance. Famously renounced the influence of the Church of Rome and emphasized reason in religious matters. Authored numerous sermons that were widely published and circulated, contributing to the intellectual landscape of the time.
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