René Moawad
Lebanese politician and former president
A prominent political figure, served as the 13th President of Lebanon from November to December 1989. Moawad's presidency was marked by efforts to restore stability and peace during the Lebanese Civil War. Before assuming the presidency, significant roles included being a member of the Lebanese Parliament and serving as the Minister of Youth and Sports. His tenure was cut short when he was assassinated shortly after taking office, leading to a period of national mourning and reflection on the ongoing conflicts in the country. Moawad is remembered for his commitment to national sovereignty and rebuilding Lebanon during tumultuous times.
Served as 13th President of Lebanon
Assassinated shortly after taking office
Other People Born on April 17th
Agostino Vallini
Cardinal and vicar general of Rome
Born
April 17th, 1940 86 years ago
Ordained as a priest in 1967, held various positions within the Roman Catholic Church, becoming a prominent figure in the Vatican. Appointed as the vicar general of Rome in 2006, overseeing the pastoral care of the Diocese of Rome. Elevated to the cardinalate in 2012, contributing to the governance of the Church and participating in significant ecclesiastical events including papal conclaves.
Continue ReadingHeidi Alexander
English politician and former MP
Born
April 17th, 1975 51 years ago
A British politician served as the Member of Parliament for Lewisham East from 2010 to 2019. Played a key role in various health issues during the tenure as Shadow Secretary of State for Health. After leaving Parliament, engaged in the field of public transport, focusing on improving commuting services. Also contributed to regional development strategies in London.
Continue ReadingFerdinand Piëch
Automotive engineer and Volkswagen CEO
Born
April 17th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2019 7 years ago — 82 years old
An accomplished automotive engineer and businessman, contributions to the automotive industry include leadership roles at Audi and Volkswagen. Oversaw development of the Audi Quattro, a groundbreaking all-wheel-drive vehicle that revolutionized performance standards. Served as Chairman of the Volkswagen Group, guiding the company through significant expansion and innovation. Advocated for engineering excellence, emphasizing performance and quality in vehicle design.
Continue ReadingRichard Allen Epstein
American lawyer and academic author
Born
April 17th, 1943 83 years ago
Born in 1943, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and analysis. Focused on property rights, torts, and commercial law. Served as a law professor at the University of Chicago and New York University. Published extensively on law and economics, advocating for libertarian principles. Held various academic and professional roles throughout career, offering clout in debates on law reforms and policy.
Continue ReadingBen Barnes
American businessman and politician
Born
April 17th, 1938 88 years ago
Served as the 36th Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1969 to 1973. Played a significant role in Texas politics during the late 20th century. Focused on education reform and public transportation issues while in office. Was also involved in various business endeavors after leaving public service.
Continue ReadingNick Hornby
English novelist and screenwriter
Born
April 17th, 1957 69 years ago
Born in 1957, this English novelist, essayist, lyricist, and screenwriter gained recognition for works exploring themes of music, relationships, and adolescent experiences. The debut novel, "Fever Pitch," detailed a passionate obsession with football, blending autobiography and sports commentary. Subsequent novels, including "High Fidelity" and "About a Boy," garnered critical acclaim and were adapted into successful films, further establishing a career in screenwriting. Contributions to music journalism and various essays displayed an ongoing engagement with popular culture. The collaboration with musician Ben Folds resulted in a musical adaptation of "High Fidelity."
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 22nd
Antipope Felix II
Religious leader and antipope
Died
November 22nd, 365 1660 years ago — None years old
Served as an antipope during a period of conflict in the early Christian church. Involved in the religious disputes of the time, particularly opposing the legitimate pope. His tenure as antipope was marked by significant theological controversies and rivalries within the church hierarchy. The exact details of the reign remain unclear due to the limited historical records from this era. Died on November 22, 365.
Continue ReadingMikhail of Tver
Prince and martyr of Tver
Born
1271 755 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1318 707 years ago — 47 years old
Born in the late 13th century, served as the Prince of Tver from 1304 until death. Engaged in political conflicts against the Mongol Golden Horde and neighboring principalities. Captured by the Grand Duke of Moscow and faced execution. Canonized as a saint in the Russian Orthodox Church due to his martyrdom, becoming a symbol of resistance against oppression.
Continue ReadingHenry Wilson
Colonel and 18th U.S. Vice President
Born
February 16th, 1812 214 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1875 150 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1812, a prominent politician served as the 18th Vice President of the United States from 1873 to 1875. Prior to this role, held significant influence on education and labor reforms. Played a key role in the establishment of the Republican Party and advocated for abolition. Served in the U.S. Senate representing Massachusetts, contributing to legislative efforts during the Reconstruction era. Transitioned from military service as a colonel in the Civil War to a political career focused on civil rights and education.
Continue ReadingParley Baer
Actor in radio and television series
Born
August 5th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 88 years old
An American actor became prominent in radio and television during the mid-20th century. Played a significant role in the classic radio series 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet' and later starred in the television adaptation of the show. Provided the voice for various characters in 'The Jetsons' and appeared in numerous other series, including 'Gunsmoke' and 'The Twilight Zone'. In addition to acting, contributed to the industry as a voice artist, working on commercials and animated series.
Continue ReadingMary Kay Ash
Businesswoman, founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics
Born
May 12th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 83 years old
Started a cosmetic company in 1963, focusing on empowering women through entrepreneurship. Developed a marketing model emphasizing personal relationships and direct sales. Established a foundation supporting cancer research and women’s economic empowerment. Authored self-help books sharing insights on business and personal achievement.
Continue ReadingEric V of Denmark
Danish King and ruler of Denmark
Born
1249 777 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1286 739 years ago — 37 years old
Ruled as King of Denmark from 1250 until death in 1286. His reign experienced political turmoil and internal conflicts. Worked on consolidating royal power in Denmark. Engaged in a significant alliance with the Bishopric of Roskilde. Presided over the kingdom during the early stages of the conflicts with the Hanseatic League. Struggled with the influence of powerful nobles and regional lords, impacting governance.
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