Morgan Taylor
American hurdler and coach
Achieved success as a hurdler during the early 20th century, competing primarily in the 110-meter hurdles. Secured multiple national titles and represented the United States in international competitions. Transitioned to coaching after athletic career, mentoring young athletes and contributing to the sport through education and training. Helped develop future generations of track and field competitors, enhancing techniques and competitive strategies.
Competed in the 110-meter hurdles
Won national titles in hurdling
Coached young track athletes
Other People Born on April 17th
Roddy Piper
Professional wrestler and actor
Born
April 17th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 61 years old
A Canadian professional wrestler and actor, contributed significantly to the wrestling industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Gained popularity in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where developed the character 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper. Featured in the cult classic film 'They Live' which showcased both acting and wrestling skills. Wrestled in major promotions across North America, returning to WWE as a commentator and manager.
Continue ReadingBilly Fury
English singer-songwriter and musician
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1983 42 years ago — 42 years old
An influential singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1950s. Achieved significant success in the UK music scene with rock and roll hits. First single, 'Maybe Tomorrow,' released in 1959, reached the UK charts. Released numerous albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with a distinctive style that combined elements of pop and rock. Continued to perform until health issues impacted career. Estimated to have sold over 1 million records throughout his career, cementing a lasting legacy in British music.
Continue ReadingCarl Friedrich Philipp von Martius
Botanist and explorer of Brazil
Born
April 17th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1868 157 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent botanist and explorer, contributions focused on the flora of Brazil. Studied botany extensively, leading expeditions to collect plant specimens. Worked on the classification and documentation of various plant species. Developed significant works, including 'Flora Brasiliae.' Additionally, served as a naturalist and produced detailed accounts of Brazilian ecology and culture during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingAlexander Cartwright
Firefighter and inventor of baseball
Born
April 17th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1892 133 years ago — 72 years old
A firefighter contributed to the development of baseball, which evolved into the modern game. Established fundamental rules for the sport while serving as a member of the Knickerbocker Base Ball Club in New York City. Organized and promoted the first formal baseball game in 1846. His influential role in shaping the rules and structure of baseball helped lead to its widespread popularity throughout the United States.
Continue ReadingRichard Allen Epstein
American lawyer and academic author
Born
April 17th, 1943 82 years ago
Born in 1943, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and analysis. Focused on property rights, torts, and commercial law. Served as a law professor at the University of Chicago and New York University. Published extensively on law and economics, advocating for libertarian principles. Held various academic and professional roles throughout career, offering clout in debates on law reforms and policy.
Continue ReadingMaurice Rouvier
French Prime Minister
Born
April 17th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1911 114 years ago — 69 years old
This individual served as the 53rd Prime Minister of France during the late 19th century. His political career included significant roles within the French government, notably in finance and administration. Rouvier played a key role in various governmental reforms and was instrumental in managing France's economic policies during a challenging period. He was also involved in the French Senate and contributed to numerous legislative initiatives. His leadership was marked by efforts to stabilize the political landscape in France.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 16th
Anthony Shadid
Journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
1968 57 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 44 years old
Worked as a journalist primarily covering the Middle East. Contributed to The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and The Washington Post, providing in-depth reporting on conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Awarded the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting in 2004 for coverage of the Iraq War. Remembered for the ability to convey the human side of war and conflict through compelling narratives.
Continue ReadingM. A. G. Osmani
Bangladeshi general and military leader
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1984 41 years ago — 66 years old
Served as a general in the Bangladesh Armed Forces, holding prominent positions during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Played a crucial role in coordinating military operations against the Pakistani forces. After the war, took on a significant role in shaping the defense policy of the newly independent Bangladesh. Involved in various military and administrative capacities throughout his career until his passing in 1984.
Continue ReadingDadasaheb Phalke
Pioneer of Indian cinema and filmmaker
Born
April 30th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1944 81 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed significantly to Indian cinema as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Initiated the first full-length Indian feature film, 'Raja Harishchandra', released in 1913. Founded the Phalke Studios and advanced filmmaking techniques in India. Influenced many future filmmakers and established a foundation for the film industry in India.
Continue ReadingGustavo Noboa
Ecuadorian politician, 42nd President
Born
August 21st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 42nd President of Ecuador from 2000 to 2003. His administration focused on implementing economic reforms and negotiating Free Trade Agreements. Oversaw a period of relative stability in Ecuador while addressing internal conflicts. Contributed to the promotion of foreign investment and worked on social programs aimed at improving education and healthcare.
Continue ReadingGonzalo Fernández de Córdoba
Spanish general and politician, Governor of Milan
Born
December 31st, 1585 439 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1645 380 years ago — 59 years old
A significant military and political figure in Spanish history, served as the 24th Governor of the Duchy of Milan in the early 17th century. Played a crucial role in the military engagements of the Thirty Years' War and the Italian Wars. Demonstrated strong leadership in both military and governance, contributing to the stability of Spanish rule in Italy during a turbulent period. Oversaw various administrative reforms in the Duchy aimed at improving governance and economic conditions.
Continue ReadingGertrude of Hohenberg
Queen consort of Germany, marriage alliance
Died
February 16th, 1281 744 years ago — None years old
Born around 1225, Gertrude of Hohenberg was the queen consort of Germany as the wife of King Henry VII. The marriage was part of a strategic alliance that solidified political ties in the Holy Roman Empire. Gertrude's royal status brought significant attention to her lineage and connections, which played a role in the political landscape of her time. She remained a prominent figure during her husband's reign, contributing to the royal court and its affairs until her death on February 16, 1281.
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