Patrick Smith
Irish politician and agriculture minister
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Ireland
Links & References
Served as Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine in Ireland. Engaged in agricultural policy and legislation during a pivotal time for the farming community. Played a significant role in addressing the needs of Irish farmers, focusing on food production and sustainability. Contributed to various initiatives that impacted the agricultural landscape of Ireland. His tenure included efforts aimed at enhancing the agricultural sector and supporting local farmers.
Served as Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Addressed agricultural policy challenges in Ireland
Other People Born on July 17th
Jack Laviolette
Canadian ice hockey player and coach
Born
July 17th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1960 66 years ago — 80 years old
Played as an ice hockey player and later transitioned to coaching and managing hockey teams. Contributed to various teams within the National Hockey League (NHL). Served as a head coach for multiple teams and was recognized for building competitive rosters. Development of strategies and training programs influenced player performance during the early years of the NHL.
Continue ReadingShmuel Yosef Agnon
Ukrainian-Israeli novelist and poet
Born
July 17th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1970 55 years ago — 81 years old
Agnon was a Ukrainian-Israeli novelist, short story writer, and poet. Born in Ukraine, he immigrated to Palestine in the early 20th century, contributing significantly to Hebrew literature. His works often explored themes of Jewish identity and tradition. In 1966, Agnon received the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognized for his mastery in weaving folklore and contemporary experiences. His stories and novels remain pivotal in Hebrew literature.
Continue ReadingCarlos Alberto Torres
Footballer and manager, World Cup winner
Born
July 17th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
October 25th, 2016 9 years ago — 72 years old
A legendary Brazilian footballer and manager, played as a right-back and led Brazil to victory in the 1970 FIFA World Cup. Captained the national team during the tournament, where Brazil displayed exceptional skill and teamwork. Transitioned into management after retirement, taking charge of various clubs, including the New York Cosmos. Instrumental in popularizing football in the United States during his coaching tenure, shaping the early professional era of the sport.
Continue ReadingBruno Jasieński
Polish poet and author of 'The World Is Yours'
Born
July 17th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1938 87 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1901, a Polish poet and author emerged as a significant literary figure in the early 20th century. Influenced by the avant-garde movement, the individual contributed to the Polish literary scene with innovative works that explored themes of modernity and socio-political issues. The poet's major works include 'The World Is Yours' and 'The Dancing's End,' which showcased a unique style and a profound sense of irony. Active in the interwar period, engaged with leftist politics and contributed to various literary magazines. The later years were marked by exile and migration due to political tensions in Poland, leading to a significant impact on the individual’s writings and perspectives.
Continue ReadingGeorges Lemaître
Astronomer and creator of the Big Bang theory
Born
July 17th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1966 59 years ago — 71 years old
A Belgian priest and scientist contributed foundational concepts to modern cosmology. Lemaître proposed the hypothesis of the expanding universe, which later became known as the Big Bang theory. In 1927, published a groundbreaking paper outlining the relation between the distance of galaxies and the redshift observed in their light. This work laid the groundwork for much of contemporary cosmological thought. Prior to this, contributed to the field of mathematics and physics, developing significant theories that influenced various areas of science. Lemaître's religious background provided a unique perspective on the intersection of science and faith.
Continue ReadingCharles Davidson Dunbar
Scottish soldier and bagpipe player
Born
July 17th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1939 87 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a soldier in the British Army, participating in multiple campaigns. Gained recognition as a skilled bagpipe player, contributing to military traditions and performances. Active in the promotion of Scottish music and culture, Dunbar's performances highlighted the significance of the bagpipes in military settings and beyond.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 18th
Anthony Minghella
Film director and screenwriter, The English Patient
Born
January 6th, 1954 72 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent English director and screenwriter, recognized for contributions to film with a distinct narrative style. Directed the Oscar-winning film The English Patient in 1996, which earned nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Other notable works include The Talented Mr. Ripley and Cold Mountain. Also notable for adapting literary works into successful screenplays. His career included collaborations with various prestigious actors and production teams, establishing a legacy in international cinema.
Continue ReadingGeorge Tupou V
King of Tonga and constitutional reformer
Born
1948 78 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2012 13 years ago — 64 years old
Ascended to the throne of Tonga in 2006, after the death of his father. Implemented significant constitutional reforms to transition Tonga to a democratic government. Oversaw the establishment of a new constitution in 2010 which expanded civil liberties and increased representation in the parliament. Focused on modernization and public sector reforms during the reign. Died in 2012, leaving a legacy of political change.
Continue ReadingAnne Robert Jacques Turgot
Economist and French Controller-General
Born
1727 299 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1781 244 years ago — 54 years old
An influential economist and politician served as the Controller-General of Finances in France. Implemented economic reforms aimed at modernizing the French economy including promoting free trade and reducing regulatory restrictions. Advocated for the establishment of a single land tax to replace the various taxes that burdened the populace. His fiscal policies faced significant opposition and ultimately led to his dismissal from office during the financial tumult leading up to the French Revolution.
Continue ReadingOmid Reza Mir Sayafi
Iranian journalist and blogger
Born
1980 46 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2009 16 years ago — 29 years old
Worked primarily as a journalist and blogger in Iran. Focused on civil rights issues and freedom of expression. Committed to reporting on social and political topics despite facing significant risks. Died in custody under suspicious circumstances, drawing attention to the treatment of journalists in Iran.
Continue ReadingR. A. Lafferty
American author of speculative fiction
Born
November 7th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2002 23 years ago — 87 years old
An author contributed significantly to speculative fiction, particularly known for intricate narratives and complex characters. Works featured elements of fantasy, science fiction, and sometimes absurdism, showcasing a distinct style. Various short stories and novels earned recognition for originality. Often blended mythological and historical references into narratives, creating unique worlds. Made a lasting contribution to the genre through published works.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Bréval
Cellist and composer of chamber music
Born
1753 273 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1823 202 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed to the repertoire for cello and piano, along with writing works for string quartets. Established a style that blended classical forms with expressive melodies, significantly influencing cello performance. Active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, engaged with prominent musicians of the time and developed a pedagogical approach to teaching cello.
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