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
Don Kirshner
Songwriter and music producer for The Monkees
Born
April 17th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2011 15 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent songwriter and music producer, contributed significantly to the music industry during the 1960s and 1970s. Developed and produced catchy songs for various artists and bands. Managed The Monkees, creating hit songs that topped the charts. Established Kirshner Productions to nurture young talents. Involved in the creation of the TV show 'Don Kirshner's Rock Concert', which showcased numerous prominent musical acts.
Continue ReadingIan Jones
Rugby player, All Blacks lock
Born
April 17th, 1967 59 years ago
Played professional rugby in New Zealand, primarily as a lock. Represented the All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby union team, from 1992 to 1998. Contributed to the team's success during a notable period in rugby history, including participation in multiple international test matches and tournaments. After retiring from rugby, continued to engage with the sport through various roles in coaching and commentary.
Continue ReadingBoomer Esiason
American football quarterback & sportscaster
Born
April 17th, 1961 65 years ago
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals. Won the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1988. Led the Bengals to Super Bowl XXIII in 1989. Transitioned to a successful career as a sports commentator and analyst after retiring from professional football.
Continue ReadingAnja Silja
German soprano and actress in opera
Born
April 17th, 1940 86 years ago
Born in Germany, a renowned soprano and actress emerged in the world of opera. Extensive career included performances in major opera houses worldwide. Achieved acclaim for portrayals in works such as 'Salome' and 'Ariadne auf Naxos'. Also participated in various theatrical productions, showcasing versatility across genres. Collaborated with several prestigious orchestras and conductors, significantly contributing to the operatic repertoire.
Continue ReadingFerdinand Piëch
Automotive engineer and Volkswagen CEO
Born
April 17th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2019 6 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 ReadingJason White
Scottish rugby player and captain
Born
April 17th, 1978 48 years ago
A rugby union player had a prominent career representing Scotland. Played predominantly in the back row and served as captain of the national team. Participated in multiple Rugby World Cups, including the 2003 and 2007 tournaments. Spent a significant portion of his club career with Sale Sharks in England, contributing to their success in domestic and European competitions. Noted for strong defensive skills and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 22nd
Norman Granz
Record producer and jazz promoter
Born
August 6th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1918, a significant figure in the world of jazz music, particularly recognized for founding the Verve Records label. Helped to establish the careers of many prominent jazz musicians and played a crucial role in promoting their work. Managed iconic performances and jazz festivals, showcasing talent across the globe. Advocated for civil rights within the music industry, ensuring that musicians received fair treatment. His contributions facilitated the accessibility of jazz to wider audiences, blending various styles and artists.
Continue ReadingArthur Sullivan
English composer of comic operas
Born
May 13th, 1842 184 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1900 125 years ago — 58 years old
Received education at the Royal Academy of Music and became a prominent composer in the late 19th century. Collaborated with W.S. Gilbert, leading to the creation of enduring comic operas. Their works were characterized by wit and memorable melodies, with many achieving success on stage. Operas like 'The Pirates of Penzance' and 'H.M.S. Pinafore' garnered significant acclaim in both Britain and the United States, contributing to the popularity of the comic opera genre. Sullivan also composed symphonic and choral works, and provided music for various theatrical productions.
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 ReadingJohn Tillotson
English Archbishop and preacher
Born
1630 396 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1694 331 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury in the late 17th century. Played a key role in the development of Anglican theology and preached against religious intolerance. Famously renounced the influence of the Church of Rome and emphasized reason in religious matters. Authored numerous sermons that were widely published and circulated, contributing to the intellectual landscape of the time.
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.
Continue ReadingAnthony Burgess
English author and playwright
Born
February 25th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1993 32 years ago — 76 years old
An influential English author and playwright, produced a vast body of work that includes novels, essays, and plays. Best recognized for the novel 'A Clockwork Orange', which explores themes of free will and societal control. The work inspired a highly controversial film adaptation directed by Stanley Kubrick. Burgess's writings often incorporated his fascination with language and jazz music, reflecting his own experiences and beliefs. Additionally, contributed to literature as a critic and scholar, holding strong views on the importance of creative expression.
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