Qi Jiguang
Chinese general and military strategist
Served as a general during the Ming dynasty, focusing on the defense of the southeastern coastal regions of China against Japanese pirates. Developed military tactics and organized local militias effectively. Authored significant military texts, including the 'Treatise on Military Affairs' and 'Essentials of Military Affairs', which are still studied for their insights into strategy and tactics.
Defeated Japanese pirates in coastal skirmishes
Established local militias for defense
Authored military texts on strategy
Other People Born on November 12th
Tonya Harding
Figure skater and Olympic athlete
Born
November 12th, 1970 55 years ago
Competitive figure skater participated in the 1992 and 1994 Winter Olympics. Achieved significant success in the sport during the early 1990s. Gained notoriety following a scandal surrounding the attack on fellow skater Nancy Kerrigan prior to the 1994 Olympics, which overshadowed achievements in figure skating.
Continue ReadingTrey Burke
Basketball player and college star
Born
November 12th, 1992 33 years ago
Played college basketball for the University of Michigan, leading the team to the NCAA Championship game in 2013. Awarded the Naismith College Player of the Year and the Wooden Award in 2013. Entered the NBA Draft in 2013 and was selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves before being traded to the Utah Jazz. Contributed significantly as a point guard for the Jazz and had tenures with other teams in the NBA.
Continue ReadingRaffey Cassidy
English actress known for 'Vox Lux'
Born
November 12th, 2001 24 years ago
Born in 2001, this English actress began her career in television, with early appearances in series such as 'The Rain' and 'The Rook'. A breakthrough role occurred in 2018 with the film 'Vox Lux', which explored themes of fame and tragedy. The performance garnered critical attention, establishing her as a prominent figure in contemporary cinema. Collaborations with notable directors and actors followed, leading to further roles in projects that showcased her range and ability.
Continue ReadingNadia Comăneci
Gymnast and Olympic gold medalist
Born
November 12th, 1961 64 years ago
A gymnast who achieved unprecedented success at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, this individual became the first gymnast to score a perfect 10.0 in Olympic competition. During the Olympics, earned three gold medals, one silver medal, and one bronze medal. After her competitive career, transitioned into coaching and continued to promote gymnastics worldwide.
Continue ReadingNedum Onuoha
English footballer and defender
Born
November 12th, 1986 39 years ago
Professional footballer played as a defender. Started career at Manchester City, where he progressed through the youth system and made several appearances in the Premier League. Later played for Queens Park Rangers, contributing to the team's efforts in both the Premier League and Championship. During the career, also had loan spells at clubs such as Sunderland. Represented England at various youth levels, displaying skills in defense and versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingRob Schrab
American writer and artist of comic books
Born
November 12th, 1969 56 years ago
Contributed to television and comic book industries. Collaborated on various series including 'The Sarah Silverman Program' and 'Channel 101'. Created and illustrated graphic novels such as 'Scud: The Disposable Assassin'. Co-founded the online comedy channel 'Channel 101', promoting innovative short films and web series. Engaged in projects involving animation and comedy, showcasing a unique visual style and storytelling approach.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 17th
Edward Shepherd Creasy
Historian and jurist, author of 'Fifteen Decisive Battles'
Born
September 12th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1878 148 years ago — 65 years old
Creasy was an English historian and jurist. Education included studying at the University of Oxford. He served as a member of the bar and held a position as a judge in the British legal system. Creasy’s written works contributed to historical scholarship, particularly in the analysis of military history. The book 'Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World', published in 1851, gained significant attention for its examination of key battles and their impacts on history. This work remains a reference for military historians and students alike. Later in life, he became involved in politics and served as a member of the House of Commons. Creasy's contributions to history and law are recognized through his published works and judicial roles.
Continue ReadingMateiu Caragiale
Romanian journalist and author
Born
1885 141 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1936 90 years ago — 51 years old
A Romanian journalist, author, and poet contributed significantly to literature and journalism in the early 20th century. Prominent works include novels and essays that capture the essence of Romanian society and culture. His writing style blended modernist influences with local traditions, showcasing profound psychological insights and witty commentary. Active in literary circles, he also engaged in various cultural movements of the time. The intertwining of personal experiences and broader societal observations characterized much of the literary output, making a notable mark on the Romanian cultural landscape.
Continue ReadingLizbeth Webb
English soprano and actress in opera
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 87 years old
An English soprano and actress gained recognition for performances in musical theatre and opera. Webb originated the role of Clara in the 1945 production of 'Porgy and Bess' at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. She also played leading roles in various British operatic productions and concerts, showcasing a strong vocal range. In addition to stage performances, recorded works include numerous collaborations that feature her singing. Over the years, Webb continued to influence the genre through her performances until her death in 2013.
Continue ReadingJohn Ray
Botanist and natural historian
Born
November 29th, 1627 398 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1705 321 years ago — 77 years old
Significant contributions made to the field of botany, resulting in the development of modern plant classification. Utilized a systematic approach in the study of plants, setting foundational guidelines for botanical nomenclature. Authored several works, including 'Historia Plantarum,' which detailed various plant species and their characteristics. Contributions to natural history included studies on animal taxonomy and ecology.
Continue ReadingDerek Fowlds
British actor on 'Yes Minister'
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2020 6 years ago — 83 years old
Derek Fowlds was a British actor recognized primarily for his role as Bernard Woolley in the television series 'Yes Minister' and its sequel 'Yes, Prime Minister'. His acting career spanned several decades and included work in theater, film, and television. Fowlds appeared in other notable television series, including 'The Basil Brush Show' and 'Heartbeat'. He also had a successful stage career, performing in various productions in London's West End. Fowlds was active in the entertainment industry from the 1960s until his passing in 2020.
Continue ReadingBetty Smith
American author of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
Born
December 15th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1972 54 years ago — 75 years old
An American author and playwright, contributed significantly to literature through the exploration of themes such as poverty, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The novel A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, published in 1943, achieved critical acclaim and has been a staple in American literature classes. The narrative details the coming-of-age of a young girl in Brooklyn, focusing on her experiences and challenges during the early 20th century. The work was celebrated for its profound portrayal of family dynamics and the socioeconomic hardships faced by immigrants at the time. Other works include the novel Joy in the Morning, which further delves into personal and familial struggles. Smith also wrote plays that showcased her literary talents beyond novels.
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