Rudolf Nureyev
renowned ballet dancer and choreographer
A prominent ballet dancer and choreographer, achieved acclaim for technical brilliance and dramatic expression. Defected from the Soviet Union to the West in 1961, which marked a significant moment in the arts during the Cold War. Nureyev performed with major ballet companies, including the Royal Ballet and the Paris Opera Ballet. Collaborated with notable figures in the dance world, significantly influencing contemporary ballet through innovative choreography and interpretations of classic works.
defected to the West in 1961
performed major roles in 'Swan Lake' and 'Don Quixote'
choreographed the acclaimed 'Romeo and Juliet'
Other People Born on March 17th
Patrick Cantlay
Professional Golfer with PGA Tour wins
Born
March 17th, 1992 34 years ago
This professional golfer has achieved significant success on the PGA Tour. Winning the prestigious 2021 Tour Championship, established a reputation as a leading player in professional golf. Secured multiple victories, showcasing consistent performance in tournaments. Prior to turning professional, achieved remarkable success in amateur golf, including winning the 2011 U.S. Amateur Championship. Continues to compete at the highest levels of the sport, contributing to the growing popularity of golf in the United States.
Continue ReadingChris Copeland
Basketball player and coach
Born
March 17th, 1984 42 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of Michigan and later at the University of New York. Entered the NBA in 2012, playing for the New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, and Milwaukee Bucks. Achieved personal bests during the 2012-2013 NBA season, especially for the Knicks. Transitioned to coaching roles after retirement, focusing on player development and training.
Continue ReadingSheikh Mujibur Rahman
Bangladeshi politician, 1st President
Born
March 17th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1975 50 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent figure in Bengali politics, leadership began in the 1940s as a member of the All-India Muslim Students Federation. Increased influence through association with the Awami League, advocating for Bengali rights. In 1970, the Awami League won a majority in Pakistan's national elections. Played a crucial role in the independence movement, leading to Bangladesh's liberation from Pakistan in 1971. Served as the first President from 1971 to 1972 and later as the Prime Minister until 1975. Assassinated in a military coup in January 1975, his legacy remains pivotal in Bangladesh's history.
Continue ReadingEmmanuel Sanders
American football wide receiver, Super Bowl champion
Born
March 17th, 1987 39 years ago
Started a professional football career in the NFL after being drafted in 2010. Played for several teams, most notably the Pittsburgh Steelers, where contributions helped secure a Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl XLV. Later played for the Denver Broncos, achieving another Super Bowl title in Super Bowl 50. Known for speed and route-running ability. Also played for the San Francisco 49ers and the New Orleans Saints.
Continue ReadingPenelope Lively
English author of acclaimed novels
Born
March 17th, 1933 93 years ago
An English author, she achieved prominence with literary works that explore themes of memory, nostalgia, and the passage of time. Prominent novels include 'Moon Tiger,' which won the Booker Prize in 1987, and 'The Photograph.' Lively's works often blend the personal with historical narratives, creating layered stories that reflect on the intricacies of life. In addition to novels, she authored children's books and essays, further showcasing her versatility in writing. Her contributions to literature have earned her a place among notable contemporary authors.
Continue ReadingWalter Rudolf Hess
Physiologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 17th, 1881 145 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1973 52 years ago — 92 years old
A Swiss physiologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of the brain and its functions. Conducted pioneering research on the hypothalamus, elucidating its role in regulating autonomic functions and behavior. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1949 for discoveries regarding the functional organization of the interbrain. Published numerous scientific papers and held prestigious academic positions throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 6th
Christy O'Connor Jnr
Golfer and golf course architect
Born
August 19th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2016 10 years ago — 67 years old
Played professional golf for several decades, achieving notable success on the European Tour and representing Ireland in international competitions. Participated in the Ryder Cup multiple times, contributing significantly to the team's performances. Transitioned into golf course design, influencing the sport through architectural projects that emphasize strategy and playability. His contributions to both the playing and design aspects of golf are well regarded in the golfing community.
Continue ReadingPat Harrington Jr.
American actor from 'One Day at a Time'
Born
August 13th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2016 10 years ago — 86 years old
An actor and screenwriter, contributed significantly to television and film. Played the role of Schneider in the sitcom 'One Day at a Time', which aired from 1975 to 1984. Featured in various other television shows and movies throughout a career spanning several decades. Recognized for a unique comedic style and strong character performances.
Continue ReadingJoe Slovo
Politician and anti-apartheid activist
Born
May 23rd, 1926 100 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1995 31 years ago — 68 years old
A lawyer and politician, contributed to the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. Co-founded the South African Communist Party and served as the Chief of Staff of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress. Participated in the negotiations to end apartheid and served as a minister in the post-apartheid government.
Continue ReadingDevil Anse Hatfield
American guerrilla leader during feuds
Born
1839 187 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1921 105 years ago — 82 years old
A leader of the Hatfield clan during the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud, operated in the late 19th century. The feud primarily took place in the Appalachian region, especially on the border of West Virginia and Kentucky. Hatfield played a significant role in various skirmishes and legal battles against the McCoy family. His actions during this period solidified his reputation as a notorious figure in American folklore and history. The feud escalated into violence, involving investigations and trials that captured national attention. After years of conflict, the feud largely subsided, and Hatfield became a prominent figure associated with it until death.
Continue ReadingLouis Braille
Inventor of the Braille writing system
Born
January 4th, 1809 217 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1852 174 years ago — 43 years old
An educator developed a tactile writing system that enables visually impaired individuals to read and write. At the age of 15, created a simplified version of a code for reading and writing using raised dots based on the military night writing system. Established a school for the blind in France, dedicated to teaching this innovative method, which significantly improved literacy among visually impaired people.
Continue ReadingCharley O'Leary
Baseball player and coach
Born
October 15th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1941 85 years ago — 58 years old
Played professional baseball as a shortstop in Major League Baseball from 1908 to 1919. Was a member of the St. Louis Cardinals, Detroit Tigers, and Philadelphia Athletics. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching and managed various teams in the minor leagues. His career in baseball lasted over a decade, contributing to several teams in significant roles.
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