Ruth Rendell
English crime writer and novelist
An English author produced a substantial body of work in the crime and mystery genres. Noteworthy for the Inspector Wexford series, numerous standalone novels explored psychological and social themes. Achieved critical acclaim and commercial success for writing, winning several awards, including the Crime Writers' Association's Cartier Diamond Dagger and multiple Edgar Awards. Also recognized for contributions to literature and adapted works for television and film, enhancing the reach of the narratives beyond the page.
Created the Inspector Wexford series
Won the Crime Writers' Association's Cartier Diamond Dagger
Received multiple Edgar Awards
Other People Born on February 17th
Francis
French Grand Chamberlain of the King
Born
February 17th, 1519 507 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1620 405 years ago — 101 years old
Served as Grand Chamberlain in the court of King Francis I of France during the 16th century. Managed the royal household and oversaw various ceremonial functions. Played a key role in the administration of the court and contributed to the organization of state events and royal ceremonies. Worked to maintain the prestige and order of the royal household amidst the complexities of court politics.
Continue ReadingAlan Bates
English actor in film and theater
Born
February 17th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2003 22 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1934, an English actor gained recognition for performances on stage and in film. Became associated with the Royal Shakespeare Company and starred in various notable productions. Achieved acclaim for the role in 'The Birthday Party' and performed in films such as 'Women in Love' and 'The Go-Between'. Received the Laurence Olivier Award for his work in theater, highlighting a significant contribution to the performing arts. In 1990, appeared in the television adaptation of 'The Old Man and the Sea', further demonstrating versatility across mediums.
Continue ReadingHans Morgenthau
Political Scientist and Realist Theorist
Born
February 17th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1980 45 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent political scientist and philosopher, contributions focused on political realism and international relations. Published influential works, including 'Politics Among Nations' which outlined core principles of realism. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Chicago. Offered insights into power dynamics and the nature of international politics during the Cold War era.
Continue ReadingRashid Minhas
Pakistani soldier and pilot
Born
February 17th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1971 54 years ago — 20 years old
A soldier and pilot in the Pakistan Air Force, served during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. Launched a mission on August 20, 1971, in an F-6 fighter aircraft. Engaged in action against an enemy aircraft. Demonstrated bravery and dedication to duty, ultimately sacrificing life during an attempt to thwart the hijacking of his aircraft. Awarded the Nishan-e-Haider, Pakistan's highest military award, posthumously in recognition of valor.
Continue ReadingMarc Lawrence
Actor and director of 'The Big Clock'
Born
February 17th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2005 20 years ago — 95 years old
An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. In the 1940s, began appearing in films and gained recognition for roles in film noir. In 1948, starred in 'The Big Clock' and directed his first film, 'The Killing of Sister George' in 1968. Transitioned to television with guest roles in series such as 'Columbo' and 'The Golden Girls'. His work spanned several decades, contributing to both film and television as a creative force.
Continue ReadingDorothy Canfield Fisher
Educational reformer and author
Born
February 17th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1958 67 years ago — 79 years old
An educational reformer and social activist focused on progressive educational methodologies and children's literature. Authored several notable works, including 'Understood Betsy', which emphasized the importance of independence and self-reliance in children. Advocated for educational opportunities for marginalized populations and served on various committees dedicated to social causes. Worked with initiatives aimed at improving education standards in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 2nd
Laurence Hyde
English politician and First Lord of Treasury
Born
1641 385 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1711 315 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a prominent English politician during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Held the title of 1st Earl of Rochester and played a significant role in the administration as First Lord of the Treasury. Involved in various political matters of the time, contributing to the governance and fiscal policies of England. Engaged in numerous diplomatic and administrative tasks that shaped the political landscape during a transformative era.
Continue ReadingDavid Rappaport
Actor in 'Time Bandits' and TV roles
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1990 36 years ago — 39 years old
An English-American actor, Rappaport is recognized for roles in various television series and films. His performance in the cult classic film 'Time Bandits' showcased his unique presence and comedic talent. He also starred in the television series 'The Wizard' during the 1980s, further solidifying his reputation in the entertainment industry. Rappaport's career demonstrated versatility across a range of roles, appealing to diverse audiences.
Continue ReadingEberhard Anheuser
American businessman, co-founder of Anheuser-Busch
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1880 146 years ago — 75 years old
Co-founded Anheuser-Busch, a major brewery in the United States. Established a successful beer company that grew to become one of the largest in the world. Contributed significantly to the expansion of the American brewing industry during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingOsama bin Laden
Saudi Arabian terrorist leader, Al-Qaeda founder
Born
March 10th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2011 15 years ago — 54 years old
Founded Al-Qaeda, a militant organization, in 1988. Led multiple terrorist attacks, most notably the September 11 attacks in 2001, which targeted the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Established a network of affiliates and operatives around the world, promoting extremist ideology and engaging in global jihad. Evaded capture for nearly a decade after the attacks, ultimately located and killed by U.S. Navy SEALs in Pakistan in 2011.
Continue ReadingBeverlee McKinsey
American actress on soap operas
Born
August 9th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2008 18 years ago — 72 years old
An American actress gained recognition for roles in popular soap operas. Appeared as Iris Carrington on 'Another World' and as Alexandra Spaulding on 'Guiding Light.' McKinsey's performances contributed to the long-running success of these shows, making significant impacts on the soap opera genre. After a brief departure from acting, made a return to television.
Continue ReadingTom Wills
Australian cricketer and football co-creator
Born
August 19th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1880 146 years ago — 44 years old
An Australian cricketer and a key figure in the formation of Australian rules football contributed significantly to the sport's early development. Played as a bowler and batsman for the Melbourne Cricket Club and participated in the first-ever intercolonial match in 1851. In 1858, played a pivotal role in creating Australian rules football while serving as a cricketer. Involved in the establishment of the first set of rules for the new game, which later evolved into a distinct sport.
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