Richard Mentor Johnson
American politician and Vice President
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as the ninth Vice President of the United States under Martin Van Buren from 1837 to 1841. Represented Kentucky in the United States House of Representatives and later in the Senate. Played a significant role in various legislative initiatives during the early 19th century, particularly in relation to military affairs and land policies. His tenure as Vice President included involvement in the economic issues of the time, particularly the financial panic of 1837.
Served as Vice President under Martin Van Buren
Represented Kentucky in the House and Senate
Other People Born on October 17th
Beverly Garland
American actress in film and television
Born
October 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2008 17 years ago — 82 years old
An accomplished actress featured in various television shows and films, her career spanned several decades. Most recognized for roles in series such as 'My Three Sons' and 'Decoy', she also appeared in numerous films, including 'It Conquered the World' and 'The Alligator People'. Additional work included guest appearances in various popular shows during the 1960s and 1970s. Beyond acting, established a successful career in producing and directing, contributing to the entertainment industry in multiple capacities.
Continue ReadingAimo Koivunen
Finnish soldier and war hero
Born
October 17th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1989 36 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a corporal in the Finnish Army during World War II. Participated in the Continuation War against the Soviet Union. Gained recognition for surviving a heroic solo escape after a severe battle in 1944, which involved traversing through enemy lines while wounded. Documented experiences in the Arctic warfare drew attention to the harsh conditions faced by soldiers in winter combat.
Continue ReadingSharon Leal
American actress in 'Dreamgirls'
Born
October 17th, 1972 53 years ago
An American actress and singer gained recognition for performances in film and television. Achieved notable acclaim for the role of Michelle in the film 'Dreamgirls'. Had a significant role in the television series 'Guiding Light'. Appeared in various other television series, showcasing versatility in both drama and comedy.
Continue ReadingBarney Kessel
American guitarist and composer
Born
October 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2004 21 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent jazz guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre from the 1940s onward. Worked with numerous influential musicians and bands, shaping the sound of jazz guitar during a pivotal era. An innovative player, Kessel was among the first guitarists to employ chord melody style. His career included performances on many notable recordings and film scores. He was also an integral member of the celebrated group The Great Guitars alongside Herb Ellis and Charlie Byrd.
Continue ReadingJerry Siegel
Comic book writer & co-creator of Superman
Born
October 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1996 29 years ago — 81 years old
An author and illustrator, contributed to the comic book industry through the creation of Superman, one of the most iconic characters in popular culture. Collaborated with Joe Shuster to develop the character in the early 1930s, which led to the first Superman comic book published in Action Comics #1 in 1938. The character's immense popularity established the superhero genre and influenced countless comic book creators. Worked for several publishers over the years and engaged in various legal battles regarding authorship rights.
Continue ReadingEvel Knievel
Motorcycle stuntman and daredevil
Born
October 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old
Evel Knievel was an American motorcycle rider and stuntman recognized for performing thrilling stunts and jumps. Gaining fame in the 1960s and 1970s, achieved widespread popularity with the televised jump over 13 buses at Wembley Stadium in 1975. Known for his charismatic persona, Knievel's stunts included jumping over the Snake River Canyon in 1974, which garnered significant media attention. Injuries from various jumps shaped his career but did not deter his pursuit of adventure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 19th
Ömer Lütfi Akad
Turkish film director and screenwriter
Born
September 2nd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2011 14 years ago — 95 years old
Significant contributions to Turkish cinema marked a career focused on challenging social norms and showcasing cultural narratives. Began directing films in the 1950s, creating works that explored themes of societal change and human relationships. Received acclaim for movies such as 'Yılmaz Güney's Uğur' and 'Kırık Hayatlar.' His storytelling often highlighted the complexities of Turkish identity in the modern age, influencing subsequent generations of filmmakers.
Continue ReadingMiyagiyama Fukumatsu
Japanese sumo wrestler and champion
Born
February 27th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1943 82 years ago — 48 years old
Born on February 27, 1895, this sumo wrestler rose through the ranks in Japan's traditional sport. Competing in the early 20th century, achieved the rank of yokozuna, the highest title in sumo. The wrestler was noted for outstanding technique and strength in the ring. Retired from active competition, remained involved in the sport as a coach and mentor, contributing to the development of future sumo talents.
Continue ReadingJana Novotná
Czech tennis player and sportscaster
Born
October 2nd, 1968 57 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2017 8 years ago — 49 years old
A professional tennis player achieved success in both singles and doubles competitions. Won the Wimbledon singles title in 1998 and was recognized for outstanding performances throughout the 1990s. Transitioned into a successful career as a sportscaster after retiring from professional play.
Continue ReadingMay Hollinworth
Theatre producer and director
Born
May 1st, 1895 130 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1968 57 years ago — 73 years old
Produced and directed various theatrical productions in Australia. Contributed to the development of performing arts in the region during the mid-20th century. Worked with several prominent theatre companies and influenced the Australian theatre landscape. Played a significant role in promoting new Australian works and fostering local talent.
Continue ReadingMike Nichols
American director of 'The Graduate'
Born
November 6th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
German-born American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Nichols emigrated to the United States with his family in 1939. He gained prominence in the 1960s with the film 'The Graduate' which became a cultural phenomenon. His career spanned decades, and he directed both theater and film, creating works that garnered critical acclaim. Nichols won numerous awards, including an Academy Award, several Tony Awards, and Emmy Awards. He was known for his collaborations with prominent actors and writers, and for bringing innovative storytelling techniques to the screen and stage.
Continue ReadingAlexander Liberman
Publisher, painter, photographer, sculptor
Born
September 4th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1999 26 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1912, a prominent figure in the art world, worked extensively in publishing and visual arts. Served as editorial director of Vogue and other publications, influencing fashion and culture. Created large-scale sculptures and installations, utilizing materials like steel and aluminum. Exhibited work in numerous prestigious venues and contributed to the integration of art within urban spaces. A notable figure in both American and Russian art circles.
Continue Reading