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
Mark Salling
American actor and musician, Glee star
Born
August 17th, 1982 44 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2018 8 years ago — 35 years old
Salling rose to prominence as an actor and musician in the late 2000s. He gained widespread recognition for portraying Noah Puckerman in the television series 'Glee', which ran from 2009 to 2015 and focused on a high school glee club. In addition to acting, he released music, including an album titled 'Smoke Signals'. His career experienced significant challenges subsequent to personal controversies and legal issues that garnered media attention. After his passing in January 2018, his work continued to be discussed in the context of the show and its cultural impact.
Continue ReadingMark Felt
FBI Agent and Watergate Informant
Born
August 17th, 1913 113 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 ReadingMarcus Garvey
Jamaican activist and Black Star Line founder
Born
August 17th, 1887 139 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 ReadingHarve Bennett
Screenwriter and producer for Star Trek
Born
August 17th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2015 11 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed as a writer and producer to multiple Star Trek films and television series. Engaged in the production of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, which became one of the most successful films of the franchise. Involvement with Star Trek III: The Search for Spock and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home further solidified a prominent role in the development of the franchise. Worked extensively in television and produced shows including The Six Million Dollar Man and The Bionic Woman, both of which gained significant viewership during their runs.
Continue ReadingCharles I of Austria
Emperor and last monarch of Austria-Hungary
Born
August 17th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
1922 104 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1887, served as Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary from 1916 until 1918. His reign occurred during World War I, a tumultuous period that contributed to the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Following defeat in the war, faced political unrest and was forced to abdicate in 1918. Spent subsequent years in exile and made attempts to regain the throne in Hungary. Later, accepted into the Catholic Church and was canonized by the Catholic Church. Died in 1922 on the island of Madeira.
Continue ReadingColin James
Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 17th, 1964 62 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on May 31st
Gebhard Truchsess von Waldburg
Archbishop of Cologne
Born
November 10th, 1547 478 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1601 425 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1547, Truchsess von Waldburg served as the Archbishop of Cologne from 1583 until 1588. His tenure was marked by significant religious and political turmoil during the Counter-Reformation. He attempted to establish Protestantism in the archbishopric, which led to conflict with Catholic authorities and ultimately resulted in his deposition. Following his removal, he sought refuge in various territories before eventually passing away in 1601. His efforts to promote Protestantism and the political ramifications of his actions were significant during this tumultuous period in German history.
Continue ReadingThomas Price
Politician, 24th Premier of South Australia
Born
January 19th, 1852 174 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1909 117 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Wales and later moving to Australia, served as the 24th Premier of South Australia. Oversaw government reforms and policies that shaped the state's development during his tenure. His leadership included addressing issues related to land and immigration, which were significant for the region's growth in the late 19th century. Left a legacy through various legislative initiatives aimed at improving social conditions.
Continue ReadingC. L. R. James
Trinidadian journalist and historian
Born
January 4th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1989 37 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1901, this individual contributed significantly to Caribbean intellectual thought and Marxist theory. Education took place in Trinidad and London, where engagement with socialist movements occurred. The major work, 'The Black Jacobins', analyzed the Haitian Revolution and its implications for post-colonial societies. Additionally, involvement in cricket as a historian and commentator enhanced understanding of the sport in the Caribbean. The synthesis of literature, history, and politics characterized contributions, with deep explorations into the nature of freedom and colonialism within a Caribbean context.
Continue ReadingMartha Hyer
American actress and Oscar nominee
Born
August 10th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2014 12 years ago — 89 years old
This actress gained recognition in the 1950s and 1960s for various roles in film. Best recognized for appearances in 'Some Came Running' and 'The Sons of Katie Elder', her work spanned both dramatic and comedic performances. In 1960, received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in 'Some Came Running'. Her career included performances in theater and television, contributing to her presence in the entertainment industry throughout the decades.
Continue ReadingDanny La Rue
Drag queen performer and singer
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2009 17 years ago — 82 years old
An Irish-British drag performer and singer, celebrated for a vibrant stage presence and contributions to the entertainment industry. Achieved notable success in cabaret and theater, particularly during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition through performances in London's West End and various television appearances. Maintained a distinguished career, known for blending humor and glamour, captivating audiences across generations.
Continue ReadingÉvariste Galois
Mathematician known for group theory
Born
October 25th, 1811 214 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1832 194 years ago — 20 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in the areas of algebra and group theory. Developed a framework for understanding polynomial equations through the establishment of Galois theory. The work laid foundational principles for modern abstract algebra, despite being published posthumously.
Continue Reading