Ralph Rose
Track and field athlete and Olympian
Competitor in track and field events, achieved prominence in shot put. Participated in the 1908 and 1912 Olympics, earning a gold medal in the 1912 Stockholm Games. Rose set multiple records in shot put during his career. His performance at the Penn Relays was particularly noteworthy, showcasing his strength and technique in the event. Contributed to the development of the shot put technique.
Gold medal in shot put at the 1912 Olympics
Set multiple world records in shot put
Other People Born on March 17th
Meir Amit
Israeli general and Minister of Communications
Born
March 17th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a prominent Israeli general and held the position of the 12th Minister of Communications. Played a significant role in shaping Israel's military intelligence and served as the Chief of Military Intelligence from 1961 to 1966. Later transitioned into politics, contributing to Israeli public service and communication policy.
Continue ReadingJames Irwin
Astronaut and Apollo 15 moonwalker
Born
March 17th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1991 34 years ago — 61 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Air Force and became an astronaut for NASA. Participated in the Apollo 15 mission in July 1971, which was the fourth crewed mission to land on the Moon. Irwin piloted the Lunar Module, exploring the Hadley-Apennine region and conducting scientific experiments. After retiring from NASA, focused on public speaking and writing about his experiences in space, as well as promoting faith-based initiatives.
Continue ReadingJean Van Houtte
Belgian Prime Minister and academic leader
Born
March 17th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1991 34 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1907, an academic and politician served as the 50th Prime Minister of Belgium. Held various positions in government and contributed to higher education policy and reform. Engaged in significant political activities during the mid-20th century, focusing on issues pertinent to Belgian society. Played a role in Belgium's post-war recovery efforts and fostered relationships within political institutions.
Continue ReadingToyotomi Hideyoshi
Japanese daimyō and unifier of Japan
Born
March 17th, 1537 488 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1598 427 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1537, a prominent daimyō in 16th century Japan, played a crucial role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period. Initially a peasant, gained recognition as a general under Oda Nobunaga. After Nobunaga's death, took control of his forces and continued the campaign to unify Japan. Established the political structure that would dominate Japanese governance and society for decades. Promoted cultural arts, including the tea ceremony, and encouraged the construction of Osaka Castle. Died in 1598, leaving a legacy that shaped the nation.
Continue ReadingPaul Green
Playwright and academic, won Pulitzer Prize
Born
March 17th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1894, a playwright and academic made significant contributions to American theater. His works often explored social issues and Southern culture. His play 'In Abraham's Bosom' won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1927. The playwright also served as a professor, influencing future generations of writers and theater practitioners. In addition to plays, he wrote screenplays and essays.
Continue ReadingAlfred Newman
American composer and conductor
Born
March 17th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1970 55 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent composer and conductor in the American film industry, contributed significantly to movie scores from the 1930s through the 1960s. Served as the head of the music department at 20th Century Fox, overseeing numerous productions. Played a crucial role in shaping the sound of classic Hollywood films, winning nine Academy Awards for Best Original Score. Composed memorable scores for films including "The Song of Bernadette," "All About Eve," and "How Green Was My Valley."
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 16th
Joseph Solomon Delmedigo
Physician and mathematician
Born
June 16th, 1591 434 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1655 370 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1591, a physician, mathematician, and theorist engaged in the study of medicine and mathematics. Contributed to the introduction of modern algebra into Europe. Authored works that explored the intersection of science and philosophy, focusing on the importance of empirical evidence in scientific inquiry. Worked with prominent scholars of the time and played a key role in the dissemination of mathematical knowledge during the Renaissance.
Continue ReadingEtta Jones
American jazz and blues singer
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2001 24 years ago — 73 years old
An accomplished jazz and blues singer, gained prominence in the 1950s. Recorded numerous albums, showcasing a rich, soulful vocal style. Collaborated with many notable musicians throughout the career. Received critical acclaim for performances, becoming a respected figure in the jazz community.
Continue ReadingRoger Boyle
English soldier and politician, 1st Earl of Orrery
Born
April 25th, 1621 404 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1679 346 years ago — 58 years old
Roger Boyle served as a soldier and politician during the 17th century. He was appointed the 1st Earl of Orrery in 1660. Boyle played a significant role in the English Civil War, supporting the Royalist cause. He was instrumental in military operations in Ireland and held various governmental positions. Boyle's contribution to military and political affairs in England and Ireland marked his influence during a turbulent period in British history.
Continue ReadingJakub Bart-Ćišinski
German poet and playwright
Born
August 20th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1909 116 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1856, a prominent figure in the literary scene, engaged in both poetry and playwriting. Contributed significantly to the cultural fabric of the time through various works. Utilized themes of national identity and cultural heritage in literary creations. Active during a period of significant artistic expression and was involved in discussions surrounding the role of the arts in society.
Continue ReadingDan Dailey
American dancer and actor in musicals
Born
December 14th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1978 47 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent dancer and actor, contributions to the film industry included performances in musicals during the mid-20th century. Achieved significant recognition through work in films like 'A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court' and 'Good News'. Engaged in various stage performances and television shows, showcasing versatility and talent. Received accolades for a career spanning several decades in entertainment, influencing the genre of musical film.
Continue ReadingVictor Amadeus III of Sardinia
King of Sardinia, Treaty of Paris signer
Born
June 26th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1796 229 years ago — 70 years old
Ruled as King of Sardinia from 1773 until 1796. Played a significant role in the Treaty of Paris, which ended the American Revolutionary War, establishing peace between Great Britain and the American colonies. The reign included efforts to modernize the state, focusing on the economy and military. Faced with political pressures, resisted French revolutionary influences. Abandoned direct governance in favor of a regency led by Charles Emmanuel IV and withdrew from active rulership during tumultuous times in Europe.
Continue Reading