Pierre Gaultier de Varennes
Canadian explorer and commander
Born
Died
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
Canada
Links & References
Born in 1685, an explorer and commander explored parts of North America including the Mississippi River and Michigan. His expeditions contributed to the French colonial efforts in North America. He played a significant role in the establishment of French settlements and trade routes. His leadership in exploring the Great Lakes region opened new opportunities for European settlements in the area.
Led expeditions along the Mississippi River
Explored the Great Lakes region
Established French trade in North America
Other People Born on November 17th
Kinga Baranowska
Polish mountaineer and climber
Born
November 17th, 1975 50 years ago
A Polish mountaineer achieved notable success in high-altitude climbing. Focused on completing ascents of all 8,000-meter peaks without supplemental oxygen, made significant summits in the Himalayas and Karakoram mountains. Contributed to mountaineering through multiple expeditions and explorations in challenging terrains.
Continue ReadingRyan Griffin
American football player, tight end
Born
November 17th, 1989 36 years ago
Played college football at the University of Connecticut before entering the NFL. Drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2013. Played as a tight end for the Saints and later for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, contributing to the team’s offensive strategies during his tenure.
Continue ReadingMischa Auer
Russian-American actor in films
Born
November 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1967 58 years ago — 61 years old
Born in Russia, later moved to the United States, became a prominent actor in the early to mid-20th century. Gained attention in Hollywood with performances in various films, showcasing a range of characters often reflecting his European heritage. Gained further recognition for roles in significant productions during the golden age of cinema.
Continue ReadingAuberon Waugh
English author and journalist
Born
November 17th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2001 25 years ago — 61 years old
An author and journalist, published a series of novels and essays that satirized British society and politics. Worked as an editor for several publications, including the 'Literary Review'. Developed a distinctive voice in commentary and criticism, often eliciting controversy. Contributed to the landscape of political journalism with engaging and provocative writings.
Continue ReadingJacques MacDonald
French general and military leader
Born
November 17th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1840 185 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a general in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Participated in various military campaigns across Europe under Napoleon Bonaparte, contributing to significant victories. Played a crucial role in the Battle of Austerlitz and the invasion of Russia. Held the title of Duke of Taranto and continued military service after Napoleon's fall, representing France in the royalist army.
Continue ReadingStephen Root
American actor in 'Office Space'
Born
November 17th, 1951 74 years ago
An American actor, known for roles in film and television. Contributed to a wide range of projects throughout the career. Portrayed Milton Waddams in the film 'Office Space'. Played Jimmy James in the television series 'NewsRadio'. Featured in other prominent roles in shows such as 'Veep' and 'Justified'. Gained recognition for voice work in animated series.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 5th
Tyruss Himes
American rapper and songwriter
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2016 9 years ago — 48 years old
An influential figure in the hip-hop scene, a member of the group Thug Life alongside Tupac Shakur. Worked on numerous collaborations and solo projects, contributing to the West Coast rap movement. Released notable albums, including 'Big Syke's Life' and 'The Outlawz - Ride Wit Us or Collide Wit Us.' Established a strong reputation in the music industry for distinctive style and lyrical content.
Continue ReadingWilliam Sterling Parsons
American admiral and atomic bomb expert
Born
November 26th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1953 72 years ago — 52 years old
An American admiral, born in 1901, played a significant role in the development of atomic bomb technology during World War II. Oversaw the bomb's military application as the commander of the USS Indianapolis, which transported the bomb to Tinian Island. Contributed to the Manhattan Project, specifically in the design and delivery methods of nuclear weapons. After the war, served in various naval capacities, including roles in the development of naval aviation and missile technology.
Continue ReadingKarlheinz Stockhausen
Composer of avant-garde music and opera
Born
August 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2007 18 years ago — 79 years old
Born in Germany, a composer and academic became a prominent figure in 20th-century music. Pioneered electronic music, and developed innovative compositions that transformed traditional forms. Influenced the development of music and performance art, integrating technology with sound. Created significant works such as 'Gesang der Jünglinge' and the opera 'Licht', exploring new structures and compositional techniques. Engaged with various artistic disciplines, fostering collaborations with artists and musicians across genres.
Continue ReadingBob Dole
American politician and legislative leader
Born
July 22nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2021 4 years ago — 98 years old
Born in 1923, a significant figure in American politics and law, served as a soldier during World War II, where sustained injuries that affected mobility. Held multiple prominent positions including U.S. Senator from Kansas and Senate Majority Leader. Contended as the Republican candidate for President in 1996 against Bill Clinton. His legislative work included efforts on tax reform and veterans' affairs, advocating for the needs of those who served in the military. Post-political career involved significant engagement in various charitable activities. Dole passed away in 2021.
Continue ReadingChuck Williams
Businessman, founder of Williams Sonoma
Born
October 2nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 100 years old
An American author and businessman established a prominent retail kitchenware and home furnishings company in 1956. Williams Sonoma specialized in gourmet kitchen tools and cookware, transforming culinary retail. The company grew into a nationwide chain, providing a platform for culinary enthusiasts and professional chefs alike. Alongside retail success, authored several books focused on culinary techniques and recipes, enriching the experience of cooking for many.
Continue ReadingCharles Evans
Mountaineer and educator with Everest ascent
Born
October 19th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1918, this mountaineer made significant contributions to both education and medicine. He played a key role in the 1953 British Mount Everest expedition, during which he became a member of the first successful team to reach the summit. Beyond mountaineering, he practiced as a surgeon and dedicated efforts towards academic education in the medical field, shaping future generations of surgeons. His legacy includes the advancement of surgical techniques and a commitment to training in high-pressure environments, drawing from his mountaineering experiences.
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