Robert P. Griffin

American soldier and politician

Robert P. Griffin - American soldier and politician
Born

1923
102 years ago

Died

April 17th, 2015
10 years ago — 92 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Griffin served as a soldier during World War II, earning the rank of captain in the United States Army. After the war, pursued a career in law and subsequently entered politics. Elected as a United States Senator from Michigan, he held office from 1966 to 1979. Throughout his political career, Griffin focused on issues such as education and infrastructure. Following his Senate tenure, served as a partner in a prominent law firm and remained active in public affairs until retirement.

Served as a United States Senator from Michigan

Held office from 1966 to 1979

Earned rank of captain during World War II

Other People Who Died on April 17th

Manwel Dimech

Maltese journalist and philosopher
Born
1860 165 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1921 104 years ago — 61 years old

Dimech contributed significantly to Maltese literature, journalism, and philosophy. Dimech's writings often addressed social issues and advocated for reforms in Malta. A prominent figure in Maltese culture, he worked as a journalist and wrote extensively on topics such as education, politics, and the rights of workers. Dimech also founded and edited various publications, playing a key role in shaping public discourse in Malta during his time. His legacy continues to influence Maltese thought and literature.

Continue Reading

Gabriel García Márquez

Colombian Author, Nobel Prize Winner
Born
March 6th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Colombia, this author became a major figure in literature through the development of magical realism, a style blending the magical with the mundane. The work titled 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' gained international acclaim and is considered a foundational text of modern literature. In 1982, received the Nobel Prize in Literature for writings that reflect the complexities of Latin American society and culture. The author's journalistic career also contributed to a significant understanding of political issues in Colombia.

Continue Reading

Antonio Bertali

Italian violinist and composer
Born
1605 420 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1669 356 years ago — 64 years old

An Italian violinist and composer contributed significantly to the Baroque music scene. Active in the 17th century, composed various instrumental and vocal works. Served in the court of the Habsburgs in Vienna, where his music gained recognition. His compositions include sonatas and operas, with a particular emphasis on the violin as a solo instrument. Played a role in the development of violin technique and the establishment of the string quartet.

Continue Reading

Louise Nevelson

Sculptor, creator of large wood sculptures
Born
September 23rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 88 years old

An influential sculptor and educator, this artist gained recognition for signature large-scale sculptures constructed from found objects and painted in monochromatic palettes. Throughout a distinguished career, significant works included public installations and gallery exhibits across the United States. The artist's work explored themes of space, light, and shadow, merging sculpture with architectural elements. Teaching at various institutions, contributions to the field extended beyond personal creations, shaping future generations of artists. Received multiple awards including the National Medal of Arts, highlighting longstanding influence.

Continue Reading

Al-Walid II

Umayyad caliph and architect of expansion
Died
April 17th, 744 1281 years ago — None years old

Became caliph of the Umayyad Caliphate in 743. Focused on military campaigns, aiming to expand the empire into Central Asia and the Byzantine territories. Established significant infrastructure projects, contributing to the development of cities and trade routes. His reign was marked by internal strife and challenges from rival factions within the Umayyad dynasty. Experience in governance included managing a vast territory that stretched from Spain to India. Ruled until death in 744 amid power struggles.

Continue Reading

John Paul Getty

Philanthropist and oil magnate
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2003 22 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent philanthropist and oil tycoon, contributed significantly to the arts and education through foundational support. Established the Getty Oil Company and became a leading figure in the petroleum industry. Created the Getty Trust, which oversees various cultural and educational institutions, including the Getty Museum in Los Angeles. Advocated for arts education and preservation and donated extensively to cultural institutions worldwide.

Continue Reading