Otto Stern
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born in Germany, a physicist contributed significantly to molecular beam experiments and atomic physics. Emigrated to the United States in 1933 due to the rise of the Nazi regime. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1943 for the development of the molecular beam technique, which allowed for precise measurements of atomic and molecular properties. Served as a faculty member at several institutions, including the Carnegie Institute of Technology, where research focused on spin resonance and behavior of molecules in magnetic fields.
Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1943
Developed the molecular beam technique
Other People Born on February 17th
Karl Jenkins
Welsh composer and saxophonist of 'Adiemus'
Born
February 17th, 1944 82 years ago
A saxophonist, keyboard player, and composer, this individual is recognized for blending classical and contemporary musical styles. Studied at the Royal Academy of Music and initially part of the jazz group Soft Machine, the work expanded into orchestral and choral compositions. The composition 'Adiemus' gained significant popularity, characterized by its unique blend of vocal harmonies and world music influences. Also composed the notable work 'The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace', which has been performed worldwide.
Continue ReadingJoseph Gordon-Levitt
Actor in Inception and 500 Days of Summer
Born
February 17th, 1981 45 years ago
Born in 1981, this American actor and director gained prominence in the entertainment industry through performances in various films and television series. Early work included roles in the television series '3rd Rock from the Sun.' A significant lead role came with the film '500 Days of Summer,' which showcased versatility in romantic comedy. In 2010, starred in the critically acclaimed film 'Inception,' directed by Christopher Nolan, further solidifying a reputation for taking on complex and challenging roles. As a director, received recognition for the film 'Don Jon,' exploring themes of relationships and addiction. In addition to acting and directing, co-founded the online platform HITRECORD, fostering collaborative art-making.
Continue ReadingAlexander Obolensky
Rugby player and WWII pilot
Born
February 17th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1940 86 years ago — 24 years old
Played rugby for England and made a significant contribution during World War II as a pilot. Achieved recognition for his performance in rugby union matches, notably in the 1939 match against Wales, where he scored two tries. His athletic career was cut short by the war, during which he served in the Royal Air Force and lost his life during a mission in 1943.
Continue ReadingRuth Clifford
American actress in silent films
Born
February 17th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 98 years old
Began a film career in silent cinema, gradually transitioning to sound films. Featured in over 120 films from the 1910s to the 1940s, gaining recognition for roles in both comedies and dramas. Collaborated with notable studios such as Universal and Columbia Pictures. Later appeared in television series, including memorable performances in 'The Twilight Zone'.
Continue ReadingWally Pipp
Baseball player and journalist
Born
February 17th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1965 61 years ago — 71 years old
Played as a first baseman in Major League Baseball. Spent most of career with the New York Yankees. Helped the team to a championship in 1921. Pipp's consecutive game streak ended when a young player named Lou Gehrig took his place, marking a significant moment in baseball history. After retiring from playing, transitioned to a career in journalism, covering sports.
Continue ReadingBuddy DeFranco
Clarinet player and bandleader
Born
February 17th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent clarinet player and bandleader, contributions spanned several decades in the jazz genre. DeFranco gained recognition in the 1940s and 1950s, performing with notable orchestras and musicians. His innovative style helped to popularize the clarinet in jazz music, merging classical techniques with contemporary jazz. Collaborations with artists such as Art Tatum and Oscar Peterson highlighted his versatility and skill. DeFranco led various ensembles and recorded over 30 albums throughout his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Emperor Go-Fukakusa
Emperor of Japan during the Kamakura period
Born
June 28th, 1243 783 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1304 721 years ago — 61 years old
Became emperor of Japan in 1246 and reigned until 1259. During the reign, significant administrative changes took place within the imperial court. Following abdication, served as a retired emperor, influencing politics behind the scenes. The period saw ongoing conflicts between the imperial court and warrior clans, impacting the political landscape of the time. His reign was part of the Kamakura era, marked by the emergence of the samurai class and a shift in power dynamics.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Da Ponte
Opera librettist for Mozart's works
Born
March 10th, 1749 277 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1838 187 years ago — 89 years old
An Italian-American priest and poet, contributed significantly to the world of opera through collaborations with composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Wrote librettos for several operas including 'The Marriage of Figaro,' 'Don Giovanni,' and 'Cosi fan tutte.' After moving to America, engaged in various pursuits, including founding an Italian-language school in New York. His literary contributions continue to be celebrated in the realms of music and literature.
Continue ReadingHans Gude
Norwegian-German painter and academic
Born
March 13th, 1825 201 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1903 122 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1825, a prominent painter specialized in landscapes, primarily influenced by the Romantic movement. Studied at the Düsseldorf Academy, where the works of Caspar David Friedrich inspired artistic direction. Became an academic, teaching at the Academy of Fine Arts in Berlin. His work primarily captured the beauty of Norwegian scenery, showcasing lakes, mountains, and dramatic skies. Contributed significantly to the Nordic landscape genre, developing a distinct style that emphasized the interplay of light and natural elements. Many of the paintings reflect an intimate connection with nature, often depicting winter scenes and fjords.
Continue ReadingKen Miles
Race car driver and Le Mans competitor
Born
November 1st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1966 59 years ago — 47 years old
An English-American race car driver participated in numerous motorsport events during the 1950s and 1960s. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Ford GT40, contributing significantly to its racing success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved notable victories in various sports car races, solidifying a reputation within the racing community for precision driving and engineering insight. His collaboration with Ford Racing led to innovative engineering solutions and a deep understanding of vehicle performance. Miles died in a testing accident in 1966, shortly before the completion of the Ford GT40's successful racing campaign.
Continue ReadingShamsur Rahman
Bangladeshi poet and journalist, wrote 'Joiboti Kobi'
Born
October 23rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent poet and journalist, contributed significantly to Bengali literature. Worked as an editor for various publications and founded a poetry movement that celebrated the Bengali language and culture. His poetry often reflected the social and political landscape of Bangladesh. Writings explored themes of love, loss, and identity. Engaged actively in the literature of protest during the political turmoil in Bangladesh.
Continue ReadingRadoje Domanović
Serbian journalist and author
Born
February 16th, 1873 153 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1908 117 years ago — 35 years old
Born in Serbia, Domanović became an influential journalist and author in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work primarily focused on social and political themes, often critiquing contemporary societal issues. He gained recognition for his satirical writings that highlighted the absurdities of bureaucracy and nationalism. Domanović's essays and stories resonated with the public, solidifying his place in Serbian literature. His legacy includes both literary contributions and the impact of his journalism on Serbian society during a transformative period.
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