Mohamed Abdelaziz
Sahrawi politician, President
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Western Sahara
Links & References
Born in 1947, a prominent Sahrawi politician led the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. Instrumental in the Western Sahara independence movement, served as the president from 1976 until death in 2016. Played a key role in the establishment of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic and was a key figure in the fight against Moroccan occupation. Engaged in various resistance strategies to garner international support for the Sahrawi cause. His tenure witnessed significant events in the struggle for self-determination in Western Sahara.
Served as President of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic
Led the Western Sahara independence movement
Other People Born on August 17th
Marcus Garvey
Jamaican activist and Black Star Line founder
Born
August 17th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1940 86 years ago — 52 years old
Born in Jamaica, a prominent journalist and activist emerged, advocating for the rights and empowerment of people of African descent. Founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in 1914, which aimed to unite and uplift the global African community. Established the Black Star Line, a shipping company intended to facilitate trade and transport for the African diaspora. Promoted the philosophy of Black nationalism and Pan-Africanism, encouraging economic independence and self-reliance among African-Americans. Garvey faced legal troubles, including a conviction for mail fraud, leading to deportation from the United States to Jamaica in 1927. Continued activism in Jamaica and later in London. His ideas and initiatives influenced future civil rights movements.
Continue ReadingMark Felt
FBI Agent and Watergate Informant
Born
August 17th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 95 years old
Served as an associate director of the FBI and played a pivotal role in the Watergate scandal as an anonymous whistleblower. Provided information to journalists that led to the exposure of the scandal involving President Richard Nixon's administration. Felt's revelations regarding illegal activities by government officials were crucial in the investigation. After years of anonymity, he publicly revealed his identity in 2005.
Continue ReadingF. Ray Keyser Jr.
American politician, Governor of Vermont
Born
August 17th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2015 11 years ago — 87 years old
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Film and TV director, worked on 'The Locket'
Born
August 17th, 1893 132 years ago
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Continue ReadingColin James
Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 17th, 1964 61 years ago
A prominent figure in Canadian music, this artist gained recognition for a blend of blues, rock, and folk influences. Debut album released in 1988, achieving significant chart success and earning multiple awards. Over three decades, released numerous albums, securing a strong fan base and critical acclaim. Collaborated with various artists and producers, contributing to the evolution of the Canadian music scene. The artist continues to perform and produce new music, maintaining a presence in the industry.
Continue ReadingMoses Majekodunmi
Nigerian physician and politician
Born
August 17th, 1916 109 years ago
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2012 14 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent physician and politician in Nigeria, dedicated a significant part of his career to healthcare and public service. Contributed to the establishment of health policies and advanced the medical profession in the country. Actively engaged in the political landscape, promoting health initiatives and social welfare during his tenure. Made efforts towards improving healthcare access and quality in Nigeria, impacting the national health system.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 31st
Louise Bourgeois
Sculptor and painter; Maman sculpture
Born
December 25th, 1911 114 years ago
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Sculptor and author, notable for portraits
Born
September 9th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1970 56 years ago — 84 years old
A sculptor and author who gained recognition for creating portraits of prominent figures in the early 20th century. Contributions included producing busts of individuals such as George Bernard Shaw and Winston Churchill. Worked in various materials, with an emphasis on clay and bronze. Authored memoirs detailing experiences and travels, providing insight into the artistic landscape of the time.
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English author and biographer
Born
September 15th, 1922 103 years ago
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May 31st, 2014 12 years ago — 91 years old
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Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 9th, 1917 108 years ago
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May 31st, 1986 40 years ago — 68 years old
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Spanish sculptor and educator
Born
September 28th, 1933 92 years ago
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May 31st, 2006 20 years ago — 72 years old
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Continue ReadingEngelbert II of Nassau
Count of Nassau-Vianden and Lord of Breda
Born
May 17th, 1451 575 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1504 522 years ago — 53 years old
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