Mikhail Botvinnik

Chess player and world champion

Mikhail Botvinnik - Chess player and world champion
Born

August 17th, 1911
114 years ago

Died

May 5th, 1995
30 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Russia

Links & References

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.

Won the World Chess Championship in 1948

Contributed to the development of chess theory

Mentored many future chess champions

Other People Born on August 17th

Jim Courier

Tennis player and sportscaster
Born
August 17th, 1970 55 years ago

Born in 1970, significant achievements in professional tennis include winning the French Open twice and the Australian Open twice during the 1990s. Achieved a career-high ranking of World No. 1 and represented the United States in Davis Cup competitions, contributing to the team's successes. Transitioned into broadcasting and became a sportscaster, providing insights and commentary on tennis events.

Continue Reading

Habibul Bashar

Cricketer & Bangladeshi captain
Born
August 17th, 1972 53 years ago

An influential cricketer, this individual represented Bangladesh in international cricket. His career spanned from 1995 to 2006. Acted as a captain of the national team and played a vital role in Bangladesh's performance in multiple international tournaments. Participated in the 1999 Cricket World Cup and was part of the team during the 2003 Cricket World Cup. Transitioned to coaching after retirement and contributed to the development of cricket in Bangladesh.

Continue Reading

Johannes Maria Staud

Austrian composer, 'On the Detection of Sites'
Born
August 17th, 1974 51 years ago

Born in 1974, a composer recognized for contributions to contemporary classical music. Engaged with various forms of composition including orchestral works, chamber music, and operas. Achieved notable recognition for the opera 'On the Detection of Sites', which premiered in 2016. Often incorporates innovative structures and complex textures into compositions, influencing modern orchestral language. Collaborated with several prestigious orchestras and ensembles throughout Europe, contributing significantly to the contemporary music scene.

Continue Reading

Francis Gary Powers

U-2 pilot and Cold War figure
Born
August 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1977 48 years ago — 47 years old

Birth on August 17, 1929, took place in Jenkins, Kentucky. A career as a U.S. Air Force pilot led to a role in the CIA's U-2 program for high-altitude reconnaissance. In 1960, an operational flight over the Soviet Union resulted in capture after the aircraft was shot down. Following a spy trial in Moscow, Powers received a ten-year sentence but was exchanged for Soviet spy Rudolph Abel in 1962. His life thereafter included media work and writing about intelligence operations. His experiences highlighted the tensions of the Cold War.

Continue Reading

F. Ray Keyser Jr.

American politician, Governor of Vermont
Born
August 17th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old

Served as Governor of Vermont from 1961 to 1963. Played a role in state politics during the mid-20th century. Participated in various legal practices and contributed to the Democratic Party's efforts in Vermont. Involved in numerous initiatives and programs aimed at improving the state.

Continue Reading

Jackie Walorski

American politician and Congress member
Born
August 17th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2022 3 years ago — 58 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative for Indiana's 2nd congressional district from 2013 until 2022. Focused on issues such as agriculture, healthcare, and veterans' affairs during tenure. Also held a position as a state representative in Indiana prior to congressional service. Had a background in education and business before entering politics.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 5th

Frederick III

Elector of Saxony and humanist patron
Born
January 17th, 1463 562 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1525 500 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1463, Frederick III served as the Elector of Saxony. He was a significant figure in the early stages of the Protestant Reformation. Hosting Martin Luther at his court, he provided crucial support for Luther's writings and ideas. Frederick's role as the protector of Luther allowed for the establishment of Protestantism in Saxony. Additionally, he was an advocate for education and the arts, contributing to the development of the University of Wittenberg, which became a center for Reformation thought. His death in 1525 marked the end of an influential leadership during a transformative period in European history.

Continue Reading

Constantine Palaiologos

Byzantine general and strategist
Born
1261 764 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1306 719 years ago — 45 years old

This figure served as a prominent Byzantine general, playing a significant role in military operations during the late Byzantine Empire. Renowned for leadership during pivotal battles, strategic planning was instrumental in efforts to protect Byzantine territories. Commanded forces against various advancing armies, exhibiting tactical skills and determination.

Continue Reading

Irving Howe

Literary and social critic, wrote 'World of Our Fathers'
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1993 32 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent literary and social critic, made significant contributions to American literature and political thought. Co-founded the magazine Dissent, which focused on socialist perspectives. Published influential works such as 'World of Our Fathers', which explored the Jewish immigrant experience in America. Served as a professor at several universities, influencing generations of students through lectures and writings. Engaged in public intellectual discourse, critically examining various social issues.

Continue Reading

Charles II of Naples

King of Naples and Sicily
Born
1254 771 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1309 716 years ago — 55 years old

Ruled as King of Naples and Sicily from 1285 until death in 1309. Played a significant role in the politics of the Italian peninsula and the Mediterranean region. His reign was marked by conflicts with rival factions and efforts to consolidate power among the territories under his control. Engaged in various military campaigns and diplomacy to strengthen the Angevin dynasty.

Continue Reading

A. Sabapathy

Journalist and politician in Sri Lanka
Born
1853 172 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1924 101 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent journalist and politician, contributed significantly to the political landscape of Sri Lanka in the early 20th century. Advocated for social justice and education reform. Actively engaged in journalism, addressing colonial issues and promoting the rights of the Tamil community. Served in various political positions, playing a critical role in local governance and national discussions on civil rights. Died in 1924, leaving a legacy in Sri Lankan politics and journalism.

Continue Reading

Morris Graves

American painter and educator
Born
August 28th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2001 24 years ago — 90 years old

Morris Graves was an American painter and educator known for his contributions to the American art scene in the 20th century. Primarily linked to the Northwest School of artists, Graves focused on unique combinations of nature and spirituality in his works. His paintings often featured motifs from the natural world, characterized by a vivid use of color and abstraction. Graves was influential in the development of modern art in the Pacific Northwest and served as a teacher, sharing his artistic vision with students and emerging artists. His works have been showcased in various exhibitions, solidifying his legacy in American art history.

Continue Reading