Malcolm Browne
Journalist and photographer for Vietnam War
Contributed significantly to journalism during the Vietnam War. Served as a war correspondent for the Associated Press, capturing critical moments that defined public perceptions of the conflict. Famous for the Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph of a Buddhist monk's self-immolation in 1963, this image highlighted the harsh realities and moral complexities of the war. Later worked for The New York Times, continuing to report on major global events.
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Foreign Reporting in 1964
Captured the iconic photograph of Thích Quảng Đức's self-immolation
Other People Born on April 17th
Win Maung
3rd President of Myanmar
Born
April 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1989 37 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1916, served as the third President of Myanmar from 1962 to 1963. Held a significant position in the political landscape during a time of military control in the country. Prior to presidency, held roles such as Minister of Education and Minister of Finance. Played a crucial role in the nationalization policies that reshaped the economic structure of Myanmar. His term ended following the military coup that brought General Ne Win to power.
Continue ReadingFerdinand Piëch
Automotive engineer and Volkswagen CEO
Born
April 17th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old
An accomplished automotive engineer and businessman, contributions to the automotive industry include leadership roles at Audi and Volkswagen. Oversaw development of the Audi Quattro, a groundbreaking all-wheel-drive vehicle that revolutionized performance standards. Served as Chairman of the Volkswagen Group, guiding the company through significant expansion and innovation. Advocated for engineering excellence, emphasizing performance and quality in vehicle design.
Continue ReadingKerry Wendell Thornley
American author and theorist
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 60 years old
An American author and theorist, contributed to various writings on conspiracy theories and the events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Authored the book 'The Prankster and the Sphinx', which explored topics related to the counterculture and alternative thought. Engaged in the creation of fictional narratives closely tied to significant cultural movements. His work often combined elements of satire and philosophy.
Continue ReadingChris Barber
Trombonist and bandleader in jazz
Born
April 17th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1930, a prominent English trombonist and bandleader, contributed significantly to the traditional jazz scene. Established the Chris Barber Band, which became instrumental in popularizing New Orleans jazz and American jazz styles in the UK during the 1950s and 1960s. Collaborated with various musicians, expanding the horizons of the jazz genre. Recorded numerous albums and toured extensively, influencing generations of musicians. The band regularly featured renowned artists and showcased Barber's distinctive trombone style. Continued to perform and record music throughout his lifetime, leaving a lasting legacy in the jazz community.
Continue ReadingHarry Reasoner
American journalist and television anchor
Born
April 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent journalist, contributed significantly to American television news. Anchored CBS Evening News alongside Dan Rather and was a founding anchor of ABC's 20/20. Gained recognition for in-depth reporting and investigative journalism. Played an instrumental role in covering major events, including the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. Worked at various major news outlets, leaving a substantial legacy in broadcast journalism.
Continue ReadingLagle Parek
Estonian architect and politician
Born
April 17th, 1941 84 years ago
An architect and politician contributed significantly to Estonia's administrative framework. Held the position of Estonian Minister of the Interior, overseeing policies related to internal security and administration. Involved in the restoration of Estonia's independence and played a role in shaping modern Estonian governance.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 27th
Herman Potočnik
Engineer and space pioneer, wrote 'Das Problem der Befahrung der Planeten'
Born
December 22nd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1929 96 years ago — 36 years old
An engineer contributed to the field of astronautics and is recognized for the influential book 'Das Problem der Befahrung der Planeten'. The work detailed concepts about space travel and the colonization of planets, providing early ideas about space stations and orbital mechanics. Significant theories and designs proposed in the book laid foundational perspectives for later aerospace engineering and space exploration missions. Potočnik's vision encompassed realistic scenarios for human habitation in space and detailed engineering principles that remain relevant in contemporary aerospace discussions.
Continue ReadingGreg Morris
Actor known for Mission: Impossible
Born
September 27th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1996 29 years ago — 62 years old
An American actor, prominent in the 1960s and 1970s, gained recognition for portraying communications expert Barney Collier on the television series Mission: Impossible. The role showcased skills in espionage and technology, contributing to the show's success. Also appeared in other television series, enhancing his career in the entertainment industry. His performances often highlighted his ability to bring depth to supporting characters, making him a respected figure in television acting.
Continue ReadingKusumoto Ine
Pioneering female doctor in Japan
Born
May 31st, 1827 198 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1903 122 years ago — 76 years old
Became the first Japanese female doctor of Western medicine, gaining prominence in the mid-19th century. Studied medicine under Western doctors and later opened her own practice. Contributed to the education of women in medicine, promoting the study of Western medical practices in Japan. Played a significant role in advancing women's roles in healthcare during a period of significant societal change.
Continue ReadingPascal Chaumeil
Film director and screenwriter, 'Heartbreaker'
Born
1961 65 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 54 years old
Directed multiple films, combining comedy and romance. Gained recognition for the film 'Heartbreaker', which featured a storyline involving an unconventional mission to break up a wedding. Worked on various projects in both television and cinema, contributing to the French film industry. Directed the film 'The Tuche Family', achieving commercial success. Chaumeil's contributions also extended to screenwriting, collaborating with other filmmakers to craft engaging narratives.
Continue ReadingChen Liting
Chinese director and playwright
Born
October 20th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 102 years old
A significant figure in Chinese theater, directed various plays and contributed to the development of modern drama in China. Played a key role in reviving traditional Chinese theater forms while integrating contemporary themes and styles. Served as an influential teacher and mentor to many aspiring playwrights and directors.
Continue ReadingAnton Geesink
Martial artist and Olympic gold medalist
Born
April 6th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2010 15 years ago — 76 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a significant figure in judo and wrestling. Gained recognition for achievements in martial arts, becoming the first non-Japanese judoka to win the World Judo Championships in 1961. Secured an Olympic gold medal in judo at the 1964 Tokyo Games, marking a historic moment for Dutch judo. Also made contributions as a wrestling instructor and promoter of martial arts in Europe, influencing future generations of athletes.
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