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
Moses Majekodunmi
Nigerian physician and politician
Born
August 17th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
2012 14 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent physician and politician in Nigeria, dedicated a significant part of his career to healthcare and public service. Contributed to the establishment of health policies and advanced the medical profession in the country. Actively engaged in the political landscape, promoting health initiatives and social welfare during his tenure. Made efforts towards improving healthcare access and quality in Nigeria, impacting the national health system.
Continue ReadingJorge Posada
Baseball catcher and five-time All-Star
Born
August 17th, 1971 55 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 ReadingNicola Porpora
Italian composer and educator
Born
August 17th, 1686 340 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1768 258 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in 18th-century music, Porpora achieved significant recognition as a composer and vocal teacher. His work includes numerous operas, sacred music, and cantatas, which were influential in the development of Italian opera. Porpora was a key figure in the Neapolitan opera scene and contributed to the education of several renowned singers of the time, including Farinelli. His compositions were noted for their melodic beauty and complex vocal lines, showcasing the capabilities of the singers he trained.
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 ReadingCharles I of Austria
Emperor and last monarch of Austria-Hungary
Born
August 17th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
1922 104 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1887, served as Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary from 1916 until 1918. His reign occurred during World War I, a tumultuous period that contributed to the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Following defeat in the war, faced political unrest and was forced to abdicate in 1918. Spent subsequent years in exile and made attempts to regain the throne in Hungary. Later, accepted into the Catholic Church and was canonized by the Catholic Church. Died in 1922 on the island of Madeira.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on November 22nd
Parley Baer
Actor in radio and television series
Born
August 5th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 88 years old
An American actor became prominent in radio and television during the mid-20th century. Played a significant role in the classic radio series 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet' and later starred in the television adaptation of the show. Provided the voice for various characters in 'The Jetsons' and appeared in numerous other series, including 'Gunsmoke' and 'The Twilight Zone'. In addition to acting, contributed to the industry as a voice artist, working on commercials and animated series.
Continue ReadingMikhail of Tver
Prince and martyr of Tver
Born
1271 755 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1318 707 years ago — 47 years old
Born in the late 13th century, served as the Prince of Tver from 1304 until death. Engaged in political conflicts against the Mongol Golden Horde and neighboring principalities. Captured by the Grand Duke of Moscow and faced execution. Canonized as a saint in the Russian Orthodox Church due to his martyrdom, becoming a symbol of resistance against oppression.
Continue ReadingLorenz Hart
American playwright and lyricist of songs
Born
May 2nd, 1895 131 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 ReadingJohann Christian Reil
Physician and founder of psychological medicine
Born
February 20th, 1759 267 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1813 212 years ago — 54 years old
A German physician, physiologist, and anatomist contributed significantly to the understanding of psychological processes. Developed the concept of psychological medicine emphasizing the connection between mind and body. Worked at the University of Berlin, where research focused on the nervous system. Founded the first psychiatric clinic in Germany. Authored several important texts in medicine, particularly in neurology and psychiatry, influencing later developments in these fields.
Continue ReadingLothair II of Italy
King of Italy, Holy Roman Emperor
Died
November 22nd, 950 1075 years ago — None years old
Ruled as King of Italy from 947 until death in 950. Was also Holy Roman Emperor, participating in politics during a period marked by conflicts between various factions within the empire. His reign faced challenges from local nobility and external enemies. The political landscape was characterized by fragmentation and competition among various claimants to power. His rule was part of the larger context of the Carolingian dynasty's decline and the subsequent rise of regional powers in Italy. The legacy of Lothair II is intertwined with the shifting dynamics of authority in Northern Italy during this time.
Continue ReadingEric V of Denmark
Danish King and ruler of Denmark
Born
1249 777 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1286 739 years ago — 37 years old
Ruled as King of Denmark from 1250 until death in 1286. His reign experienced political turmoil and internal conflicts. Worked on consolidating royal power in Denmark. Engaged in a significant alliance with the Bishopric of Roskilde. Presided over the kingdom during the early stages of the conflicts with the Hanseatic League. Struggled with the influence of powerful nobles and regional lords, impacting governance.
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