Martin Bormann
German politician and Nazi leader
Born in 1900 in Germany, held a prominent role within the Nazi Party. Served as head of the Party Chancellery and was a close confidant of Adolf Hitler. Managed the internal affairs of the party and played a key role in the administration during World War II. Influenced various policies and decisions during the era, establishing himself as a powerful figure within the regime.
Served as head of the Nazi Party Chancellery
Influenced Nazi administrative policies
Was a key aide to Adolf Hitler
Other People Born on June 17th
John Hersey
American journalist and author of Hiroshima
Born
June 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1993 32 years ago — 78 years old
A journalist and author, contributed significantly to frontline reporting and literature. Hersey's notable work includes 'Hiroshima', published in 1946, which presented a detailed account of the experiences of survivors of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War II. This work reshaped narratives around war and its consequences. In addition, Hersey covered major events such as the Second World War and the Korean War, earning recognition for his impactful journalism. Throughout his career, he won several awards for excellence in reporting and storytelling.
Continue ReadingMartin Dillon
American tenor and educator
Born
June 17th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 48 years old
An accomplished tenor who gained recognition in the classical music scene, particularly in concert performances and operatic productions. Served as a dedicated educator, sharing expertise and mentoring students in vocal performance. Contributions to various music festivals and educational initiatives enriched the musical community. Collaborated with esteemed orchestras and ensembles throughout a prolific career, showcasing talent in diverse repertoires. Notable for performances that embraced both traditional and contemporary compositions.
Continue ReadingRed Foley
Country singer and songwriter
Born
June 17th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1968 57 years ago — 58 years old
An influential figure in country music, this individual gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. He recorded numerous hits and helped popularize the genre through performances on radio and television. Key achievements include hosting the Grand Ole Opry and having a successful career as a recording artist. Various albums featured standout tracks that contributed to the growth of country music during that era.
Continue ReadingThomas Haden Church
Actor, known for 'Sideways' and 'Wings'
Born
June 17th, 1960 65 years ago
An American actor engaged in television and film. Early career included cast roles in the television series 'Wings', playing Lowell Mather from 1990 to 1997. Gained recognition for the role in the critically acclaimed film 'Sideways' in 2004, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Highlighted in further projects, including roles in 'Spider-Man 3' and 'George of the Jungle'.
Continue ReadingGregory Blaxland
Explorer and early settler of Australia
Born
June 17th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1853 172 years ago — 74 years old
An Australian farmer and explorer, contributed to the exploration of New South Wales. In 1813, led the first successful crossing of the Blue Mountains, which opened up new land for settlement. His journey played a significant role in the expansion of the agricultural frontier in Australia. Blaxland's work established essential routes that facilitated further exploration and colonization of the interior regions of New South Wales.
Continue ReadingBobby Farrelly
Film director and screenwriter of comedies
Born
June 17th, 1958 67 years ago
An American director, producer, and screenwriter achieved prominence through collaborations with brother Peter Farrelly. Directed and co-wrote films, establishing a reputation in comedy. Best recognized for the film 'There's Something About Mary', which became a box office hit. Other notable works include 'Dumb and Dumber' and 'Me, Myself & Irene'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 2nd
Maya Plisetskaya
Ballet dancer and choreographer, 'The Dying Swan'
Born
November 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent ballerina and choreographer, this individual became a significant figure in ballet during the 20th century. Received extensive training at the Moscow Choreographic Institute, debuting with the Bolshoi Ballet in 1943. Contributed to the world of dance as both a performer and a creator of original ballets. Acclaimed for roles in classical pieces such as 'Swan Lake' and 'The Dying Swan'. Established a legacy through innovative choreography and captivating performances that blended classical ballet with personal expression. Directed and choreographed numerous productions, influencing ballet both in Russia and internationally.
Continue ReadingBeverlee McKinsey
American actress on soap operas
Born
August 9th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2008 17 years ago — 72 years old
An American actress gained recognition for roles in popular soap operas. Appeared as Iris Carrington on 'Another World' and as Alexandra Spaulding on 'Guiding Light.' McKinsey's performances contributed to the long-running success of these shows, making significant impacts on the soap opera genre. After a brief departure from acting, made a return to television.
Continue ReadingJoseph McCarthy
American politician and lawyer
Born
November 14th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1957 68 years ago — 48 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin from 1947 to 1957. Gained prominence during the Red Scare for asserting that numerous communists were infiltrating the U.S. government and other institutions. His aggressive investigations and hearings, known as McCarthyism, were marked by accusations without proper evidence, leading to widespread fear and controversy. McCarthy faced opposition from various political figures and media. Eventually, the Senate conducted a censure against him in 1954, which significantly diminished his influence. Died on May 2, 1957.
Continue ReadingClara Immerwahr
Chemist and peace activist
Born
June 21st, 1870 155 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1915 110 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1870, a chemist and academic specialized in physical chemistry. Engaged in scientific research while opposing the militarization of science. Served as a lecturer at the Technical University of Berlin. Advocated for pacifism and disarmament, particularly in the context of her husband's work on explosives. Her commitment to peace influenced several movements during her lifetime.
Continue ReadingClarrie Grimmett
Cricketer and leg-spin bowler
Born
December 25th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1980 45 years ago — 88 years old
One of the leading leg-spin bowlers of his time, played international cricket for Australia after initially debuting for New Zealand. Established a reputation for exceptional skill and accuracy. Made a significant mark in Test cricket during the 1920s and 1930s, becoming a key player for Australia. Achieved remarkable figures in matches, particularly notable for his ability to take wickets consistently. Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame for outstanding contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingEberhard Anheuser
American businessman, co-founder of Anheuser-Busch
Born
1805 220 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1880 145 years ago — 75 years old
Co-founded Anheuser-Busch, a major brewery in the United States. Established a successful beer company that grew to become one of the largest in the world. Contributed significantly to the expansion of the American brewing industry during the 19th century.
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