Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan

Diplomat and UN High Commissioner

Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan - Diplomat and UN High Commissioner
Born

January 17th, 1933
92 years ago

Died

May 12th, 2003
22 years ago — 70 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

Pakistan

Links & References

A French-Pakistani diplomat served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from 1965 to 1977. During this tenure, efforts focused on advocating for refugee rights and addressing the needs of displaced populations globally. Established initiatives and programs aimed at providing humanitarian assistance and facilitating resettlement. He played a key role in promoting international cooperation to tackle refugee crises effectively. After leaving his position, continued to influence humanitarian efforts through various foundations and organizations.

Served as UN High Commissioner for Refugees

Advocated for refugee rights and assistance

Other People Born on January 17th

Chili Davis

Baseball player and hitting coach
Born
January 17th, 1960 65 years ago

Born in Jamaica, played in Major League Baseball for several teams, including the San Francisco Giants and the New York Yankees. Recognized for contributions as a switch-hitter and later transitioned to coaching. Served as hitting coach for various teams in MLB, leveraging playing experience to develop hitters.

Continue Reading

Christodoulos of Athens

Greek archbishop and religious leader
Born
January 17th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Athens and all Greece from 1998 until passing in 2008. Played a significant role in the Greek Orthodox Church, influencing both ecclesiastical and public life. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and cultural issues during tenure. Advocated for the Orthodox faith and addressed contemporary societal concerns, including moral values and education.

Continue Reading

Dalida

Singer and actress, 'Bambino'
Born
January 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1987 38 years ago — 54 years old

Born in Egypt and later moving to France, a significant career spanned several decades in music and film. Rose to prominence in the late 1950s with the hit single 'Bambino', which became a major milestone. Recorded songs in multiple languages including French, Italian, Arabic, and Spanish. Acted in films such as 'The Tontons Flingueurs' and 'Sirocco'. Achieved substantial success across the globe, earning numerous awards throughout a storied career.

Continue Reading

Kelly Marie Tran

American actress from Star Wars franchise
Born
January 17th, 1989 36 years ago

Born in 1989, this actress gained prominence through her role as Rose Tico in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. The character was introduced in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' and appeared in 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker'. Tran has also lent her voice to the lead character in the Disney animated film 'Raya and the Last Dragon'. Before her breakthrough in film, she appeared in various web series and short films, showcasing her talents across different media. Tran's contributions to the industry extended to her outspoken advocacy for representation of Asian Americans in Hollywood, aiming to pave the way for future generations.

Continue Reading

Toini Gustafsson

Cross country skier, Olympic medalist
Born
January 17th, 1938 87 years ago

Competed in cross country skiing at the national and international levels. Achieved success in the 1960 Winter Olympics, winning two medals: a gold in the 3x5 km relay and a silver in the 10 km race. Represented Sweden in numerous competitions and contributed to the country's reputation in the sport during the 1960s. Achieved multiple titles in Swedish National Championships. After retirement, continued involvement in skiing and coaching.

Continue Reading

May Gibbs

Author and Illustrator of Snugglepot
Born
January 17th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1969 55 years ago — 92 years old

An English-Australian author and illustrator, recognized for creating beloved children's literature. Started illustrating and writing in early childhood. Gained prominence with the publication of 'Gumnut Babies' in 1916, featuring characters Snugglepot and Cuddlepie. The works often depicted Australian flora and fauna, appealing to young audiences. Founded the May Gibbs Children's Literature Trust, supporting emerging authors and illustrators. Contributed significantly to Australian children's literature through her distinctive artistic style and imaginative storytelling.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 12th

Amy Lowell

American poet and educator with modernist acclaim
Born
February 9th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1925 100 years ago — 51 years old

A prominent figure in American poetry, contributed significantly to the modernist movement. Published influential collections including 'Patterns' and 'What's O'Clock.' Served as a critic and educator, fostering appreciation for contemporary poetry. Assisted in popularizing free verse, showcasing an innovative style that influenced subsequent generations. Actively participated in the literary community, engaged in various literary organizations and events.

Continue Reading

Edme Mariotte

French physicist and priest
Born
1620 405 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1684 341 years ago — 64 years old

A French physicist and priest contributed significantly to the field of physics in the 17th century. His most notable work involved the study of gases, leading to the formulation of Mariotte's law, which describes the behavior of gases under pressure. He also made advancements in the understanding of optics and the principles of atmospheric pressure. His writings played an important role in the scientific discourse of the time, influencing subsequent thinkers and experiments in the field.

Continue Reading

Erich von Stroheim

Actor and director of silent films
Born
September 22nd, 1885 139 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1957 68 years ago — 71 years old

An influential figure in early cinema, one of the first filmmakers to achieve artistic acclaim. Directed and starred in films such as "Greed" and "The Wedding March", which showcased an innovative approach to storytelling and production techniques. Contributed to the development of cinematic language through meticulous attention to detail and realism. Worked in various capacities in the film industry, including roles as an actor in major silent films. His filmmaking style paved the way for future directors in Hollywood.

Continue Reading

Minna Canth

Finnish journalist and playwright
Born
March 19th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1897 128 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1844, a significant contributor to Finnish literature and social issues. Worked as a journalist and playwright, focusing on themes of women's rights and social justice. Established a prominent role in Finnish cultural life during the late 19th century, becoming a central figure in the struggle for gender equality. Published several plays and essays that addressed societal norms and the constraints placed on women. Also known for her efforts in promoting the Finnish language and culture amidst the dominance of Swedish.

Continue Reading

Valdemar I

King of Denmark, the Conqueror
Born
1131 894 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1182 843 years ago — 51 years old

Ruled Denmark from 1154 until death in 1182. Strengthened the Danish monarchy and expanded territory through military campaigns. Contributed to the consolidation of power in the region and encouraged trade. Under leadership, Denmark became an influential power in Northern Europe. Additionally, addressed internal conflicts within the realm, fostering political stability.

Continue Reading

Lambert-Sigisbert Adam

French sculptor and illustrator, notable works
Born
October 10th, 1700 324 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1759 266 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1700, this sculptor and illustrator became a prominent figure in the French artistic landscape during the 18th century. Specializing in decorative sculptures, contributions included significant works in the Palace of Versailles, where intricate carvings enhanced the royal architecture. In addition to sculptures, created numerous illustrations for various publications and art collections, showcasing exceptional skill and artistry. His work exemplified the Baroque style, characterized by elaborate forms and emotional intensity, and established a legacy within French sculpture and design that influenced subsequent generations of artists.

Continue Reading