Nevil Shute

English engineer and author of novels

Nevil Shute - English engineer and author of novels
Born

January 17th, 1899
126 years ago

Died

January 12th, 1960
65 years ago — 60 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English engineer and author, became notable for writing several bestselling novels that explored themes of human endurance and societal challenges. Wrote the acclaimed novel 'On the Beach', which depicted a post-apocalyptic world. Founded an aircraft company and worked on wartime engineering projects. Relocated to Australia later in life, where much of the literary work was produced.

Wrote 'On the Beach', a post-apocalyptic novel

Authored 'A Town Like Alice', a bestseller

Worked as an aeronautical engineer during WWII

Other People Born on January 17th

Alva Belmont

American suffragist and philanthropist
Born
January 17th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 80 years old

Active in the women's suffrage movement, this prominent figure contributed to advocating for women's rights in the United States. Involved with the National Women's Party, organized various fundraising events and campaigns to promote equal voting rights. Also engaged in numerous social reform initiatives, including labor rights and education for women. Established the Alva Vanderbilt Belmont Foundation to support progressive causes. Significant influence on public opinion regarding women's suffrage, which contributed to the eventual ratification of the 19th Amendment.

Continue Reading

Jeremy Roenick

Ice hockey player and television analyst
Born
January 17th, 1970 55 years ago

A professional ice hockey player, played 20 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams including the Chicago Blackhawks, Phoenix Coyotes, and Philadelphia Flyers. Earned three All-Star selections during the career. Appeared in over 1,200 regular-season games, recording more than 1,500 points. Transitioned to a broadcasting role after retirement, providing analysis for major sports networks.

Continue Reading

François-Joseph Gossec

French composer and conductor
Born
January 17th, 1734 291 years ago
Died
1829 196 years ago — 95 years old

A significant figure in the development of French symphonic music during the 18th century. Contributed to the evolution of the symphony and chamber music, with a style that bridged the gap between Baroque and Classical traditions. Served as a conductor and composed various works, including symphonies, operas, and choral music. Played a key role in establishing a French national style in classical music and influenced many contemporaries.

Continue Reading

Benjamin Franklin

American inventor and politician
Born
January 17th, 1706 319 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1790 235 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1706, this individual was a prominent American statesman, inventor, and publisher. He played a significant role in the American Enlightenment and the founding of the United States. As the sixth President of Pennsylvania, he advocated for democracy and civic responsibility. Franklin was also instrumental in drafting the Declaration of Independence and negotiated the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Revolutionary War. His experiments with electricity led to several inventions, including the lightning rod. Additionally, he founded the first public library in America and the University of Pennsylvania.

Continue Reading

Ulf Hoelscher

Violinist and educator with classical acclaim
Born
January 17th, 1942 83 years ago

This individual was a prominent violinist and educator, recognized for contributions to classical music. Extensive performance experience included appearances with major orchestras across Europe. The individual dedicated several years to teaching and mentoring young musicians, fostering talent in schools and conservatories. Renowned for solo performances and collaborations with chamber ensembles, the individual significantly influenced violin pedagogy and performance practice.

Continue Reading

Genndy Tartakovsky

Animator, director of 'Samurai Jack'
Born
January 17th, 1970 55 years ago

Born in Russia and raised in the United States, this animator and director became a prominent figure in the animation industry. He gained recognition for creating animated television series that combined humor with unique storytelling. His breakthrough work included 'Dexter's Laboratory', which showcased his distinctive style and imaginative concepts. He also created 'Samurai Jack', a visually stunning series that won multiple awards. Tartakovsky directed the 'Hotel Transylvania' film series, contributing to the successful reimagining of animated family films.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 12th

Alice Coltrane

American pianist and composer of jazz
Born
August 27th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old

Pianist and composer contributed significantly to jazz and spiritual music. Collaborated with John Coltrane and performed in various prominent jazz ensembles. Established a unique style incorporating Indian music and spirituality, especially through the use of the harp. Founded a record label, World Spirituality Classics, and released several influential albums, including "Journey in Satchidananda" and "Transcendence." Influenced numerous musicians and composers across genres.

Continue Reading

Johann Melchior Molter

German composer and violinist
Born
February 10th, 1696 329 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1765 260 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in the Baroque music era, contributed significantly to the development of violin music and composed numerous concertos and chamber works. Strongly influenced the musical landscape of the time through innovative compositions. Also played a crucial role in the evolution of orchestral music, with many pieces showcasing the capabilities of string instruments. Molter's works were characterized by their melodic inventiveness and harmonic richness, reflecting the stylistic transition from the Baroque to the Classical period.

Continue Reading

Jan Campert

Dutch journalist and literary critic
Born
August 15th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1943 82 years ago — 40 years old

Contributed significantly to Dutch journalism and literature during the early to mid-20th century. Worked as a journalist, writing for various publications and engaging with literary circles. Gained recognition for critical essays and commentaries that addressed social and political issues of the time. Involved in the resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II, which ultimately led to imprisonment and death. Left a legacy of commitment to free expression and critical thought.

Continue Reading

Carl Long

American baseball player
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1992 to 1995, serving teams such as the New York Yankees and the Kansas City Royals. Participated in a total of 43 games during his career. Known for his time in MLB and his contributions on the mound.

Continue Reading

Princess Royal and Princess of Orange

Royalty and political figure, Princess of Orange
Born
1709 316 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1759 266 years ago — 50 years old

Born in the late 17th century, held the title of Princess Royal and later became Princess of Orange. Engaged in various political and ceremonial activities while managing royal obligations. Played a significant role in the affairs of the court and maintained relationships that influenced European politics. Operated within a context of existing dynastic powers, facing challenges related to her status and marriage arrangements.

Continue Reading

Alexandra Bastedo

English actress in The Champions
Born
March 9th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 67 years old

An English actress gained prominence through roles in television and film. Starred in the 1960s ITC series The Champions, portraying a member of a team of secret agents with extraordinary abilities. Appeared in several other television shows and films throughout her career, including guest roles in popular series. Also involved in animal welfare and expressed a passion for animal rights.

Continue Reading