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
Agostino Vallini
Cardinal and vicar general of Rome
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Ordained as a priest in 1967, held various positions within the Roman Catholic Church, becoming a prominent figure in the Vatican. Appointed as the vicar general of Rome in 2006, overseeing the pastoral care of the Diocese of Rome. Elevated to the cardinalate in 2012, contributing to the governance of the Church and participating in significant ecclesiastical events including papal conclaves.
Continue ReadingClare Francis
Sailor and author of 'Sailor' series
Born
April 17th, 1946 79 years ago
An English sailor and author, played a significant role in competitive sailing during the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in the prestigious Whitbread Round the World Race multiple times, becoming the first woman to complete the race in 1977-78. Authored several books, including both fiction and non-fiction, focusing on sailing and adventure. Worked as a motivational speaker and contributed to various sailing publications. Resided predominantly in the United Kingdom.
Continue ReadingRichard Allen Epstein
American lawyer and academic author
Born
April 17th, 1943 82 years ago
Born in 1943, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and analysis. Focused on property rights, torts, and commercial law. Served as a law professor at the University of Chicago and New York University. Published extensively on law and economics, advocating for libertarian principles. Held various academic and professional roles throughout career, offering clout in debates on law reforms and policy.
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 ReadingBen Barnes
American businessman and politician
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Served as the 36th Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1969 to 1973. Played a significant role in Texas politics during the late 20th century. Focused on education reform and public transportation issues while in office. Was also involved in various business endeavors after leaving public service.
Continue ReadingHeidi Alexander
English politician and former MP
Born
April 17th, 1975 50 years ago
A British politician served as the Member of Parliament for Lewisham East from 2010 to 2019. Played a key role in various health issues during the tenure as Shadow Secretary of State for Health. After leaving Parliament, engaged in the field of public transport, focusing on improving commuting services. Also contributed to regional development strategies in London.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 27th
Bennett Cerf
American publisher, co-founded Random House
Born
May 25th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1971 54 years ago — 73 years old
Involved in the publishing industry, co-founded Random House in 1927, a significant book publishing company. Hosted the television game show 'What's My Line?' which premiered in 1950 and ran for 17 years. Contributed to the literary world by publishing various renowned authors, including James Michener and Dr. Seuss. Served as president of the American Booksellers Association. Engaged in numerous philanthropic activities throughout his life.
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 ReadingLeonard Riggio
Bookseller, founder of Barnes & Noble
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2024 1 years ago — 83 years old
Established a bookstore in 1965 that evolved into Barnes & Noble, transforming the company into the largest bookseller in the United States. Played a crucial role in expanding the chain and adapting to the digital age, including the launch of the Nook e-reader. Contributed to the revival of the independent bookstore through his investments and advocacy for reading.
Continue ReadingThomas Chandler Haliburton
Canadian judge and politician
Born
December 17th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1865 160 years ago — 68 years old
Served as a prominent judge and political figure in Canada during the 19th century. Held the position of a judge in Nova Scotia and played a significant role in the region's political landscape. Authored a series of humorous and satirical works that brought attention to social and political issues of the time, including the famous creation of the character Sam Slick. His writings contributed to the cultural discourse in Canada and offered insight into the era's societal norms.
Continue ReadingLope de Vega
Spanish playwright and poet
Born
November 25th, 1562 463 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1635 390 years ago — 72 years old
A prolific playwright and poet from Spain, created an extensive body of work that defined the Spanish Golden Age of literature. Wrote more than 1,500 plays, with many becoming staples of Spanish theater. His most famous work, 'Fuenteovejuna,' reflects themes of authority and social justice. Also contributed significantly to the development of the comedia, a theatrical genre combining various elements such as comedy, tragedy, and history.
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