Rebecca Walker
American author and feminist activist
An influential writer and activist, Walker gained prominence in the 1990s for her works addressing race, gender, and identity. Her book, 'Black, White and Jewish: Autobiography of a Shifting Self', explores her mixed-race heritage and the complexities of identity in America. Walker also contributed to the feminist movement by advocating for women's rights through her writings and public speaking engagements. Her essays have appeared in various publications, and she served as a prominent voice in discussions on feminism and social issues.
Authored 'Black, White and Jewish'
Co-founded the Third Wave Foundation
Contributed to 'Ms. Magazine'
Other People Born on November 17th
Jacques 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 ReadingMatthew Spring
Footballer with successful club career
Born
November 17th, 1979 46 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Career included spells at clubs like Watford, Luton Town, and Brighton & Hove Albion. Contributed to Luton Town's promotion to the Championship during the 2004-2005 season. Also had notable performances in league and cup competitions.
Continue ReadingEugene Wigner
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 17th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1995 30 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Hungary, contributed extensively to nuclear physics and quantum mechanics. Wigner developed the theory of symmetry operations in quantum mechanics and worked on the Manhattan Project during World War II. Later, he played a significant role in the development of nuclear reactors and conducted extensive research on the behavior of materials under radiation. Wigner received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1963 for contributions to the understanding of the atomic nucleus, particularly concerning nuclear symmetry and the role of mathematical structures in quantum mechanics.
Continue ReadingTies Kruize
Field hockey player, 1988 Olympic gold medalist
Born
November 17th, 1952 73 years ago
Competed internationally in field hockey during the late 20th century. Contributed significantly to the Dutch national team, participating in multiple European Championships and World Cups. Achieved Olympic success by winning a gold medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, marking a high point in a distinguished career. Played club hockey for prominent teams, enhancing his reputation in the sport.
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 ReadingAugust Ferdinand Möbius
Mathematician known for Möbius strip
Born
November 17th, 1790 235 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1868 157 years ago — 77 years old
A mathematician and astronomer, contributed significantly to geometry. Developed the Möbius strip, a surface with only one side, which became a foundational concept in topology. Published works on number theory and astronomy, including explorations of celestial mechanics. Held a professorship at the University of Leipzig, where influential mathematical principles were taught and advanced.
Continue Reading