Matti Nykänen
Ski Jumper and Olympic Gold Medalist
A prominent ski jumper from Finland, achieved significant success during the 1980s and 1990s. Secured four Olympic gold medals, earning gold in the 70m and 90m events at the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. Also claimed multiple World Championship titles, contributing to a storied career in the sport. Transitioned into music later in life and released several albums, showcasing personal talents beyond sports.
Won four Olympic gold medals in ski jumping
Achieved nine World Championship titles
Other People Born on July 17th
Oliver Ekman-Larsson
Ice hockey defenseman and captain
Born
July 17th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, played primarily as a defenseman. Emerged as a top talent in the NHL, recognized for strong defensive skills and leadership qualities. Spent the majority of a career with the Arizona Coyotes and served as team captain. Achieved multiple accolades, including being selected for international competitions, representing Sweden in the World Championships.
Continue ReadingJeremih
R&B singer and songwriter with 'Birthday Sex'
Born
July 17th, 1987 38 years ago
Born in 1987, this American singer, songwriter, and record producer rose to prominence with the 2009 hit single 'Birthday Sex,' which topped the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The artist released a self-titled debut album that featured a mix of smooth R&B and hip-hop influences. Subsequent albums included 'All About You' and 'Late Nights,' both of which showcased a unique sound blending contemporary R&B. Collaborations with other artists, such as 'Down on Me' with 50 Cent, further solidified a presence in the music industry. In addition to solo work, the singer contributed to various projects and features, receiving acclaim for vocal talent.
Continue ReadingConnor Bedard
Ice Hockey Player, NHL Rookie
Born
July 17th, 2005 20 years ago
A Canadian ice hockey player, recognized for exceptional skills and performance. Bedard played junior hockey for the Regina Pats in the WHL, showcasing remarkable scoring ability and playmaking talents. In 2023, debuted in the NHL with the Chicago Blackhawks, quickly gaining attention for his offensive prowess. Participated in international competitions, representing Canada and contributing to the team's success. Received multiple awards during junior career, including the WHL Rookie of the Year.
Continue ReadingMarc Savard
Ice hockey player and NHL All-Star
Born
July 17th, 1977 48 years ago
Played as a center in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the New York Rangers, Calgary Flames, Atlanta Thrashers, and Boston Bruins. Achieved recognition during the 2006-2007 NFL season with the Bruins, leading the team in points and assists. Selected for the NHL All-Star Game in 2008. Known for exceptional playmaking abilities and offensive contributions, particularly during his tenure with the Bruins where he was a key player in their playoff runs.
Continue ReadingDarius Boyd
Rugby league player, State of Origin star
Born
July 17th, 1987 38 years ago
Played rugby league professionally in Australia, primarily as a fullback and prominently for the Brisbane Broncos. Won three NRL premierships and represented Queensland in the State of Origin series multiple times. Achieved significant success throughout a career spanning over a decade, being a key player in his teams' performances. His contributions to the Broncos helped solidify the team's status in the National Rugby League.
Continue ReadingPanda Bear
American musician and songwriter
Born
July 17th, 1978 47 years ago
An influential musician and songwriter, this figure is associated with the experimental music genre and is a member of the band Animal Collective. The musical style often incorporates elements of psychedelia, pop, and electronic music. Solo work includes the critically acclaimed album "Person Pitch," released in 2007, which features innovative use of sampling and layered harmonies. This artist's work often reflects a rich tapestry of sounds and textures, contributing significantly to the evolution of contemporary music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 4th
Keith Allen
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
August 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
An ice hockey player and coach originally from Canada, this individual played in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the 1950s and 1960s. Later transitioned into coaching and management roles within the sport. Served as the head coach for various teams and contributed to the development of ice hockey in North America. Had a significant influence on multiple franchises, helping to shape the careers of many players. In addition to professional endeavors, was involved in the junior hockey system, mentoring young athletes.
Continue ReadingPatricia Highsmith
American novelist and thriller writer
Born
January 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1995 30 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1921, a prominent figure in American literature, known for psychological thrillers that explore themes of morality and identity. Achieved recognition with the publication of "Strangers on a Train" in 1950, which established a new genre of suspense fiction. The creation of the character Tom Ripley in the novel "The Talented Mr. Ripley" (1955) further solidified a legacy in thriller writing. Highsmith's works often featured complex characters and moral ambiguity, influencing the genre significantly throughout her career. Her writing style and innovative plot techniques garnered critical acclaim, leading to several adaptations of her novels into films, thereby reaching wider audiences.
Continue Readingİskilipli Âtıf Hodja
Turkish author and prominent scholar
Born
1875 150 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1926 99 years ago — 51 years old
Contributed significantly to Turkish literature and education through writings that focused on Ottoman Turkish language and Islamic theology. Authored many books and articles, with 'İstibdat ve Fıtratı Mütareke' being among the most recognized. Engaged in debates around modernization and traditional values, particularly in the context of Turkish society during the transition from the Ottoman Empire to the Republic of Turkey. Became a controversial figure due to the political climate of the period, which ultimately led to his execution following the establishment of new government policies.
Continue ReadingHendrik Lorentz
Dutch physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 18th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1928 97 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent physicist and academic contributed significantly to theoretical physics. Developed the Lorentz transformations, which describe how measurements of time and space change for observers in different inertial frames. Played a crucial role in the development of the theory of electromagnetism and made significant contributions to the understanding of the electron's behavior. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1902 alongside Pieter Zeeman for their studies of the radiation phenomena associated with magnetic fields.
Continue ReadingWhipper Billy Watson
Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
June 25th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1990 35 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in professional wrestling, gained fame primarily in the 1950s and 1960s. Competed in various organizations including the National Wrestling Alliance and the World Wrestling Federation. Held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship and was a star attraction in wrestling venues across Canada and the United States. Transitioned to a training role, mentoring numerous aspiring wrestlers and contributing to the sport's development. His legacy includes a strong influence on wrestling techniques and promotion of the sport's popularity.
Continue ReadingIlya Kormiltsev
Russian-English poet and translator
Born
September 26th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2007 18 years ago — 47 years old
Contributed significantly to contemporary Russian poetry and literature. Worked as a translator, bringing English poetry to Russian audiences. Actively engaged in literary discussions and events in both Russia and England. Created significant connections between Russian and English literary traditions through his translations and original works.
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