Ronnie Van Zant
Singer-songwriter and Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman
Born
January 15th, 1948
77 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1977
47 years ago — 29 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent figure in Southern rock, contributed significantly to the genre as the lead vocalist and songwriter for the band Lynyrd Skynyrd. The band released several successful albums and became known for their anthems that captured the spirit of Southern life. Tragically, died in a plane crash in 1977, which cut short a rising career. His legacy continued to influence rock music well into the future.
Fronted the band Lynyrd Skynyrd
Wrote classic songs such as 'Sweet Home Alabama'
Contributed to the album 'Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd'
Other People Born on January 15th
Wilhelm Marx
Born in 1863, this individual served as the 17th Chancellor of Germany. During tenure from 1926 to 1928, policies were influenced by post-World War I recovery needs and internal political dynamics. A lawyer by training, played a significant role in legal and political frameworks during the Weimar Republic. Engaged in various legislative reforms and contributed to financial stabilization efforts amid economic challenges.
Continue ReadingMazo de la Roche
An author and playwright, the individual contributed significantly to Canadian literature. Writings include the acclaimed "Jalna" series, which spans 16 novels and portrays life on an English estate in Canada. The series captured the lives of the Whiteoaks, a fictional family, and resonated with readers for its rich character development and detailed storytelling. In addition to the novels, the author wrote several plays, showcasing versatility in literary form. Recognition included winning the Governor General's Award for Fiction in 1927, marking a high point in the writing career. Works often reflected themes of heritage, nature, and the passage of time.
Continue ReadingGeorge Lowe
A prominent mountaineer and explorer, contributions included expeditions to the South Pole and significant climbs in the Himalayan region. Participated in the 1953 British expedition to Mount Everest, contributing to the successful ascent. Engaged in various scientific and exploratory missions, showcasing skills in high-altitude climbing and survival in extreme conditions. Work in polar regions assisted in understanding the geography and environmental conditions of those areas.
Continue ReadingRichard Franklin
An English actor, writer, and director, he contributed to the film and television industry while also engaging in political activism. Portrayed Captain Mike Yates in the long-running television series 'Doctor Who' from 1971 to 1974. In addition to acting, he wrote for television and stage productions, demonstrating versatility across multiple disciplines. His work encompassed various genres, contributing significantly to British entertainment over several decades.
Continue ReadingMaeda Toshiie
A prominent general during the Sengoku period, contributed significantly to the unification of Japan under the Toyotomi clan. Served loyally under Toyotomi Hideyoshi, playing a crucial role in military campaigns. Known for strategic brilliance and strong leadership in battles, including the Siege of Odawara and the Korean invasions. Established a powerful domain in Kaga, fostering the development of the region and supporting the arts and culture.
Continue ReadingMaurice Herzog
A prominent French mountaineer achieved historic feats in high-altitude climbing. In 1950, led the first successful ascent of Annapurna, which became one of the most celebrated climbs in mountaineering history. Later transitioned into politics, serving as the French Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, focusing on promoting sports and youth activities in France.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
Andrey Kolmogorov
Significant contributions to probability theory and mathematical logic took place. Developed the modern theory of probability, establishing foundations for stochastic processes. Authored influential works that shaped the field, including 'Foundations of the Theory of Probability'. Contributed to topological groups and turbulence theories.
Continue ReadingPope Urban III
Served as the pope from 1185 until death in 1187. Urban III faced significant challenges during his papacy, particularly relating to the Crusades. His tenure was marked by the ongoing conflicts between Christian and Muslim forces in the Holy Land, especially in response to the fall of Jerusalem in 1187. Urban III sought to rally support for the Christian cause and was deeply involved in the affairs of the church during a period of turmoil. His papacy is often overshadowed by the events of the time, particularly the loss of Jerusalem under Saladin's leadership, which acted as a catalyst for new calls to action among Western Christendom.
Continue ReadingKen Farnes
Contributed to English cricket primarily as a fast bowler. Made an appearance in 16 Test matches for England between 1936 and 1939. Played domestic cricket for Essex, developing a reputation for his bowling skills. Recognized for his outstanding performances in first-class cricket, taking over 750 wickets over his career. Served in World War II and resumed his cricket career post-war, continuing to excel until retirement.
Continue ReadingAmbrose the Camaldulian
A prominent theologian and writer, contributed significantly to the Catholic Church's understanding of monasticism and spirituality. Established a reform in monastic life through the Camaldolese order, which emphasized eremitical and communal living. Authored several works focusing on the spiritual life, the nature of God, and the importance of ascetic practices. His teachings and writings influenced later Christian thought and monastic practices.
Continue ReadingArno Gruen
A psychologist and psychoanalyst with a focus on the relationship between society and the individual. Contributed to the understanding of the impact of social structures on human behavior and development. Published several books, emphasizing the importance of empathy and social responsibility. Explored themes of alienation and the psychological consequences of fascism, drawing from personal experiences in Nazi Germany.
Continue ReadingFarooq Leghari
Served as the 8th President of Pakistan from 1993 to 1997. Had a background in engineering and politics, contributing significantly to the development of agricultural policies. Played a crucial role in transitioning Pakistan into a multi-party democracy during the 1990s and emphasized economic reforms and modernization.
Continue Reading