Martin Sandberger
German colonel and lawyer
Born in 1911, a German military officer and lawyer operated during World War II. Served as a colonel in the SS and was implicated in war crimes, particularly in connection with mass executions in occupied territories. Captured by Allied forces post-war and stood trial for crimes against humanity. Convicted in the 1949 Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials, sentencing included imprisonment. Released in the 1950s, later pursued legal practice.
Served as a colonel in the SS
Involved in war crimes during WWII
Convicted in the Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials
Other People Born on August 17th
Jiang Zemin
Chinese politician and former president
Born
August 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2022 3 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1926, served as an engineer before entering politics. Held the position of General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party from 1989 to 2002 and was the President of the People's Republic of China from 1993 to 2003. Played a significant role in modernizing China's economy and integrating it into the global market during a period of considerable growth. His leadership was characterized by a focus on technological advancement and maintaining the Communist Party's grip on power amidst reforms. Oversaw the handover of Hong Kong from British to Chinese rule in 1997, which marked a significant moment in Chinese history.
Continue ReadingLouis Desaix
French general during Revolutionary Wars
Born
August 17th, 1768 257 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1800 225 years ago — 31 years old
Served as a general in the French Revolutionary Army, participating in several key battles. Gained prominence during the Italian campaigns under General Bonaparte, especially noted for leadership at the Battle of Marengo in 1800. Defended the French interests in various campaigns across Europe. Ultimately died at the Battle of Assa in 1806, remembered for military skill and dedication.
Continue ReadingMikhail Botvinnik
Chess player and world champion
Born
August 17th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1995 31 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent chess player and engineer, made significant contributions to chess theory and practice. Became World Chess Champion three times, first winning the title in 1948. Developed the Botvinnik system of chess training, combining technical study and practical play. Influenced future generations of chess players through teaching and writing. Engaged in various engineering projects and was awarded the title of Honored Master of Sports in the Soviet Union for achievements in chess.
Continue ReadingPrincess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld
German Princess, mother of Queen Victoria
Born
August 17th, 1786 239 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 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 ReadingJulia Marlowe
English-American Actress of Shakespearean roles
Born
August 17th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1950 75 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1865, an English-American actress specialized in Shakespearean roles and became a leading figure in American theater. Marlowe gained fame for performances in productions such as 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Hamlet'. She had a noteworthy partnership with actor E.H. Sothern, and together they often starred in classic plays. Throughout her career, she was celebrated for her powerful interpretations of female roles and made significant contributions to the theatrical community, participating in numerous tours and productions across the United States. Her legacy continues to influence actors who portray Shakespearean characters.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 30th
O. V. Vijayan
Indian author and illustrator of classics
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2005 21 years ago — 75 years old
An acclaimed author and illustrator, produced significant contributions to Indian literature, primarily in Malayalam. Recognized for works that explore social and political themes, often infused with satire. Gained prominence with the novel 'Khasakkinte Itihasam,' which is celebrated for its unique narrative style and depth. Engaged in various creative endeavors, including illustrations for his books, which added to their literary value. Also participated in editorial roles in prominent publications that helped shape literary discussions in the region.
Continue ReadingFred Korematsu
American civil rights activist and plaintiff
Born
January 30th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2005 21 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1919, an American civil rights activist who challenged the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. In 1942, refused to comply with the evacuation order that forced Japanese Americans into internment camps, leading to his arrest. This act of defiance resulted in a landmark Supreme Court case, Korematsu v. United States, which upheld the internment policy at that time. Later in life, continued to speak out against injustice and discrimination, receiving recognition for contributions to civil rights. Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1998 for efforts in advocating for social justice.
Continue ReadingLeonid Shebarshin
KGB officer and author
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2012 14 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a prominent KGB officer during the Soviet era, engaging in numerous intelligence operations. Held significant positions within the KGB, including serving as the chief of the KGB's Soviet Army and later as the chief of the KGB's First Chief Directorate. After retirement, transitioned to authorship, writing about the inner workings of Soviet intelligence and sharing insights from personal experience in espionage. Through writings, contributed to understanding the complexities of Cold War espionage.
Continue ReadingJaime Escalante
Educator and mathematics teacher
Born
December 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2010 16 years ago — 79 years old
An educator who taught mathematics at Garfield High School in East Los Angeles. Introduced innovative teaching methods that improved student engagement and understanding. Developed a calculus program that allowed students to excel in advanced mathematics. The story of his tenure was depicted in the film 'Stand and Deliver'.
Continue ReadingG. Gordon Liddy
chief operative in the Watergate scandal
Born
November 30th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2021 5 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the chief operative for the White House Plumbers during the Watergate scandal. Played a significant role in the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and subsequent cover-up efforts. Arrested in 1972 and later convicted of conspiracy, burglary, and illegal wiretapping. After serving over four years in prison, became a radio talk show host and political commentator, and authored several books detailing his experiences.
Continue ReadingJanet Anderson Perkin
Canadian baseball player and curler
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2012 14 years ago — 91 years old
Played women’s baseball in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during its inaugural season in 1943. Competed in curling and was a member of the Canadian national team. Contributed to promoting women's sports through participation in competitive events.
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