Puyi
Chinese Emperor and Last Ruler
Born on February 7, 1906, this individual ascended to the throne at a young age, becoming the last Emperor of China. Ruled from 1908 until abdication in 1912 following the Xinhai Revolution, which resulted in the establishment of the Republic of China. Spent time as a puppet emperor in Manchukuo during the Japanese occupation. Captured by Soviet forces after World War II, later returned to China and lived as a common citizen. Authored an autobiography detailing experiences of imperial life and subsequent hardships.
Last Emperor of China from 1908 to 1912
Puppet Emperor of Manchukuo
Other People Born on February 7th
Daniel Van Buyten
Belgian footballer and World Cup participant
Born
February 7th, 1978 47 years ago
A professional footballer played as a central defender. Made significant contributions to various clubs throughout a career in European football. Most notable tenure was at Bayern Munich, where won multiple Bundesliga titles and the UEFA Champions League. Represented the Belgian national team and participated in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingAnita Tsoy
Singer-songwriter and recording artist
Born
February 7th, 1971 54 years ago
Singer-songwriter attained prominence in the Russian music scene in the late 1990s. Contributed to the genre of pop music with a rich blend of various styles, including traditional and contemporary elements. Released several albums and singles, many of which topped the charts in Russia. Gained recognition not only for musical talent but also for energetic live performances and theatrical presentations. Participated in prominent music festivals and events, showcasing artistry across the Russian-speaking world.
Continue ReadingJames Spader
American actor in 'The Blacklist'
Born
February 7th, 1960 65 years ago
An actor and producer gained recognition for performances in film and television. Achieved prominence through roles in series such as 'The Practice', earning an Emmy Award. Also starred in 'Boston Legal', securing multiple Emmy Awards for outstanding lead actor. Featured in films including 'Sex, Lies, and Videotape' and 'Stargate', demonstrating versatility across genres. Established a reputation for distinctive character portrayals and a unique voice, influencing roles and performances in the acting community.
Continue ReadingJock Mahoney
American actor and stuntman in films
Born
February 7th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1989 35 years ago — 70 years old
An American actor and stuntman, Mahoney gained prominence in the film industry during the mid-20th century. His career included leading roles in several popular television series and films. Mahoney starred in the television series 'The Range Rider' and 'Johnny Ringo', showcasing his skills in both acting and stunts. He appeared in numerous Western films, contributing to the genre's popularity. His work as a stuntman and actor earned him recognition in Hollywood.
Continue ReadingGarth Brooks
Country music singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 7th, 1962 63 years ago
Born in 1962, this American country music singer-songwriter gained fame in the 1990s. The artist was instrumental in popularizing the genre and blending it with rock elements. Debut album, "Garth Brooks," launched a highly successful career, leading to multi-platinum status. The artist became the first to achieve seven diamond-certified albums according to the RIAA. Known for energetic live performances, the artist also held a record for the largest attendance at a concert at Central Park. Broader collaborations included work with artists across different genres, showcasing versatility in music style. The artist's contributions to country music earned multiple Grammy Awards and a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingAlfred-Philibert Aldrophe
French architect renowned for Église Saint-Augustin
Born
February 7th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1895 130 years ago — 61 years old
Architect played a significant role in 19th-century French architecture, particularly noted for designing Église Saint-Augustin in Paris, a landmark example of the architectural transition from Classical influences to a more modern approach. Contributions also included work on various buildings and structures in France that reflected the evolving architectural styles of the time. Aldrophe's designs were characterized by their intricate details and innovative use of space, showcasing the craftsmanship typical of the era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 17th
Gord Downie
Canadian musician and lead singer of The Tragically Hip
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2017 8 years ago — 53 years old
A central figure in Canadian rock music, served as the lead singer and lyricist for The Tragically Hip from their formation in 1984 until the band's final tour in 2016. The band released numerous albums, achieving substantial commercial success and critical acclaim. Known for poetic lyrics and a charismatic stage presence, performed memorable songs such as 'Ahead by a Century' and 'Bobcaygeon.' Downie also embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums and engaging in various artistic projects, including poetry and activism, particularly concerning Indigenous rights in Canada before passing away in 2017.
Continue ReadingAnne-Marie Lizin
Belgian lawyer and politician
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent Belgian lawyer and politician, held the position of mayor of Huy for several years. Served as a member of the Belgian Senate representing the Walloon region. Advocated for women's rights and participated in various legislative initiatives focused on social issues. Engaged in several humanitarian efforts throughout her career, contributing to local governance and community development.
Continue ReadingAndrew Schally
Endocrinologist and Nobel Laureate
Born
November 30th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 97 years old
An endocrinologist contributed significantly to the understanding of hormonal regulation and neuroendocrinology. Conducted research identifying various releasing hormones, providing insights into their roles in the endocrine system. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1977 for discoveries related to the hypothalamus. Emphasized the importance of peptides in the control of hormone secretion. His work laid foundational principles for further research in endocrinology and therapeutic applications.
Continue ReadingTom Shaw
American bishop of Episcopal Church
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the bishop of the Episcopal Church and held significant leadership roles within the church's community. Worked on various initiatives related to social justice, education, and community service. Ordained in 1994, led the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts from 2004 until retirement. Focused on enhancing church outreach and fostering dialogue within the community. Involved in ecumenical and interfaith efforts to promote understanding and cooperation among different religious groups.
Continue ReadingBerndt von Staden
German diplomat, Ambassador to USA
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old
Served as a German diplomat and held the position of German Ambassador to the United States from 1999 to 2002. Played a significant role in diplomatic relations between Germany and the U.S. during his tenure. Engaged in discussions on various international issues and represented German interests in Washington, D.C. Had a background in various diplomatic roles before the ambassadorship, enhancing bilateral relations and promoting cooperation in several areas.
Continue ReadingLevi Stubbs
American singer of The Four Tops
Born
June 6th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent soul singer, celebrated for being the lead vocalist of the Motown group The Four Tops. The group achieved widespread success in the 1960s and 1970s with a series of hit songs. The most enduring hits include 'I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch),' 'Reach Out I'll Be There,' and 'It’s the Same Old Song.' Stubbs's powerful and emotive voice helped define the sound of the period and left a lasting legacy in the music industry. The Four Tops continued to perform well into the 21st century, ensuring the group's music remained popular through multiple generations.
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