Richard Basehart
American actor in 'Moby Dick'
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An American actor began career in the 1940s and gained prominence through performances in film and television. Starred in the classic film 'Moby Dick' as Captain Ahab and received acclaim for the role. Appeared in the television series 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea' as Admiral Harriman Nelson, becoming a recognizable figure in sci-fi television. Worked with notable directors and actors throughout career, contributing to significant productions in various genres.
Played Captain Ahab in 'Moby Dick'
Starred as Admiral Nelson in 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea'
Other People Born on August 31st
António Félix da Costa
Race car driver and Formula E champion
Born
August 31st, 1991 34 years ago
A race car driver from Portugal, achieved prominence in motorsport through participation in various racing series. Secured the Formula E Championship title in 2020, displaying skill in electric vehicle racing. Competed in Formula Renault, GP3 Series, and DTM, demonstrating versatility across multiple racing disciplines. Also participated in endurance racing events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Continue ReadingRamon Magsaysay
Filipino politician and President
Born
August 31st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1957 69 years ago — 49 years old
Served as the 7th President of the Philippines from 1953 until his death in 1957. Held a reputation for promoting social justice and integrity in government. Focused on improving the lives of the Filipino people through land reform and infrastructure development. Championed the cause of the common man and established programs aimed at alleviating poverty and fostering education.
Continue ReadingAlex Harris
Scottish footballer for Livingston FC
Born
August 31st, 1994 31 years ago
Played as a winger for Livingston FC in the Scottish Professional Football League. Began a professional career in 2011, contributing to the team's success in various league campaigns. Known for speed and agility on the field, participated in key matches leading to important victories for the club during his tenure.
Continue ReadingMark Johnston
Canadian swimmer, Olympic competitor
Born
August 31st, 1979 46 years ago
Competed in swimming at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. Specialized in freestyle events and participated in multiple national championships. Achieved notable rankings in various international swimming competitions, contributing to the Canadian swimming team's reputation.
Continue ReadingFredric March
American actor with two Academy Awards
Born
August 31st, 1897 128 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1975 51 years ago — 77 years old
An American actor achieved prominence in both film and theater. March starred in the original 1931 film adaptation of 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,' earning critical acclaim. His career included performances in 'The Best Years of Our Lives,' which won him an Academy Award for Best Actor. March received an additional Oscar for 'A Star is Born' in 1937. He was active in theater, performing in productions such as 'The Royal Family' and 'The Skin of Our Teeth.' March's versatility allowed him to portray a wide range of characters, gaining recognition during the Golden Age of Hollywood. His contributions to film and theater solidified a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingDezmon Briscoe
American Football Wide Receiver
Born
August 31st, 1989 36 years ago
Played college football at the University of Kansas, where set school records for touchdown receptions and receiving yards. Entered the National Football League and played as a wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Cincinnati Bengals. Achieved recognition for his performance during the 2010 NFL season, showcasing skills as a reliable target for quarterbacks.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 17th
Walter Savage Landor
English poet and author of 'Imaginary Conversations'
Born
January 30th, 1775 251 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1864 161 years ago — 89 years old
An English poet and author, produced a significant body of work during the 19th century. Gained early fame for poetry and later for prose writings, especially noted for the series of dialogues called 'Imaginary Conversations' that featured historical and fictional characters. Engaged in literary circles, becoming associated with prominent figures of the time. His works often displayed a blend of classical themes and contemporary issues, reflecting personal beliefs and societal critiques. Landor's writing style was characterized by a rich vocabulary and eloquence. Spent a significant portion of life in Italy, influencing his writing and philosophical outlook.
Continue ReadingVitas Gerulaitis
Tennis player and coach, US Open finalist
Born
July 26th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1994 31 years ago — 40 years old
Competitor achieved significant success on the professional tennis circuit during the 1970s and 1980s. Won the US Open doubles title in 1975 alongside partner, and secured a singles title in 1979 at the Australian Open. Known for reaching the finals of the US Open in 1979, finishing as a runner-up. His career-high singles ranking was World No. 3. After retiring from professional play, transitioned into coaching and became a notable figure in tennis instruction. Active in various charitable endeavors related to sports and youth development.
Continue ReadingBruno Jasieński
Polish poet and author of 'The World Is Yours'
Born
July 17th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1938 87 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1901, a Polish poet and author emerged as a significant literary figure in the early 20th century. Influenced by the avant-garde movement, the individual contributed to the Polish literary scene with innovative works that explored themes of modernity and socio-political issues. The poet's major works include 'The World Is Yours' and 'The Dancing's End,' which showcased a unique style and a profound sense of irony. Active in the interwar period, engaged with leftist politics and contributed to various literary magazines. The later years were marked by exile and migration due to political tensions in Poland, leading to a significant impact on the individual’s writings and perspectives.
Continue ReadingJohn of Austria the Younger
Spanish general and politician
Born
1629 397 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1679 346 years ago — 50 years old
A Spanish general and politician, served as Governor of the Habsburg Netherlands during the 17th century. Led military campaigns in the Low Countries against the Dutch and played a significant role in the Spanish efforts to maintain control over the region. His tenure included both military and administrative challenges, navigating the complexities of governing amidst ongoing conflict. His leadership in military operations contributed to the broader Spanish strategies in Europe during this period.
Continue ReadingRed Skelton
American actor and comedian
Born
July 18th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1997 28 years ago — 84 years old
Raised in Vincennes, Indiana, began performing in vaudeville before transitioning to radio and television. Gained prominence with 'The Red Skelton Show', which aired for nearly two decades. Known for a mix of classic slapstick and heartfelt storytelling, created memorable characters such as Clem Kadiddlehopper and Gertrude and Heathcliff. Also had a successful career in films during the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the popular culture of the era. Post-television career included painting and philanthropy.
Continue ReadingRobert W. Gore
Engineer, co-inventor of Gore-Tex
Born
April 15th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2020 5 years ago — 83 years old
An American engineer and businessman, contributed significantly to materials science. Co-invented Gore-Tex, a waterproof and breathable fabric, in 1969, which revolutionized the outdoor apparel industry. The innovation led to the establishment of W. L. Gore & Associates, a company focused on advanced materials and technology. Under leadership, the company expanded its product offerings and became a major player in various fields, including medical devices and electronics. The work in polymer technology extended beyond textiles to applications in industrial and consumer products.
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