Scott Downs
Baseball player and relief pitcher
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2000 and played primarily as a relief pitcher. Played for multiple teams including the Chicago White Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Angels. Participated in the 2006 World Baseball Classic representing the USA. Retired after the 2015 season.
Pitched for the Chicago White Sox
Played for the Toronto Blue Jays
Competed with the Los Angeles Angels
Other People Born on March 17th
Meir Amit
Israeli general and Minister of Communications
Born
March 17th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a prominent Israeli general and held the position of the 12th Minister of Communications. Played a significant role in shaping Israel's military intelligence and served as the Chief of Military Intelligence from 1961 to 1966. Later transitioned into politics, contributing to Israeli public service and communication policy.
Continue ReadingJean Van Houtte
Belgian Prime Minister and academic leader
Born
March 17th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1991 35 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1907, an academic and politician served as the 50th Prime Minister of Belgium. Held various positions in government and contributed to higher education policy and reform. Engaged in significant political activities during the mid-20th century, focusing on issues pertinent to Belgian society. Played a role in Belgium's post-war recovery efforts and fostered relationships within political institutions.
Continue ReadingJames Irwin
Astronaut and Apollo 15 moonwalker
Born
March 17th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1991 34 years ago — 61 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Air Force and became an astronaut for NASA. Participated in the Apollo 15 mission in July 1971, which was the fourth crewed mission to land on the Moon. Irwin piloted the Lunar Module, exploring the Hadley-Apennine region and conducting scientific experiments. After retiring from NASA, focused on public speaking and writing about his experiences in space, as well as promoting faith-based initiatives.
Continue ReadingBayard Rustin
American civil rights activist
Born
March 17th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 75 years old
An influential civil rights activist who played a pivotal role in the American civil rights movement. Instrumental in organizing the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, which featured Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic 'I Have a Dream' speech. Advocated for nonviolent protest and social justice throughout his life. Worked with various organizations, including the Fellowship of Reconciliation and the Council on African Affairs, promoting equality and civil rights. Rustin's efforts faced opposition due to his sexuality, but he remained committed to the cause of social justice.
Continue ReadingTakeo Miki
Japanese politician, 41st Prime Minister
Born
March 17th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
1988 38 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 41st Prime Minister of Japan from 1974 to 1976. Miki represented the Liberal Democratic Party and focused on administrative reforms and economic growth. His tenure was marked by efforts to address the energy crisis and enhance Japan's international relations. Prior to premiership, held various significant positions within the government, including Minister of Transport. After leaving office, remained active in politics and continued to influence Japanese governmental policies.
Continue ReadingRoss McLarty
Australian politician, 17th Premier
Born
March 17th, 1891 135 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1962 63 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 17th Premier of Western Australia from 1947 to 1953. Played a significant role in the development of post-war Western Australia, overseeing economic growth and infrastructure projects. Worked on policies regarding land development and social welfare. Contributed to the political landscape during a transformative period in Australian history.
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