Sid Going
Rugby player, All Blacks halfback
A prominent rugby player from New Zealand, played as a halfback. His career with the All Blacks spanned from 1963 to 1971, earning recognition for his remarkable skills on the field. Participated in numerous test matches, contributing to the team's successes during his tenure. Following retirement, engaged in coaching and rugby administration, influencing the sport at various levels.
Represented New Zealand in 39 test matches
Part of the successful All Blacks team during the 1960s
Other People Born on August 19th
Luis Martín
Spanish religious leader, Superior-General
Born
August 19th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1906 119 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the 24th Superior-General of the Society of Jesus, overseeing significant administrative and spiritual developments within the Order. Led the Society during a period of expansion and strengthening of its mission worldwide. Contributed to the revitalization of Jesuit education and the renewal of Jesuit spirituality in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingClaude Gauvreau
Canadian poet and playwright
Born
August 19th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1971 54 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent figure in Canadian literature, this poet and playwright contributed significantly to the literary landscape. His works often explored themes of identity and the human condition, employing innovative structures and language. Notable literary contributions include the poetry collections and plays that reflect the complexities of contemporary life. Engaged in the Montreal literary scene, this individual participated in the creation of the experimental theater movement in Canada.
Continue ReadingPhilo Farnsworth
Television inventor and pioneer
Born
August 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1971 54 years ago — 64 years old
An inventor and television pioneer, significantly contributed to the development of electronic television. Developed the first working television system, which included the fully electronic method of scanning and transmitting images. Conducted several important experiments that led to the invention of the cathode ray tube technology used in early television sets. Established a significant patent battle over television against RCA.
Continue ReadingPatricia Scotland
Lawyer and Attorney General of England
Born
August 19th, 1955 70 years ago
Born in Dominica, a prominent lawyer and politician served as Attorney General for England and Wales from 2007 to 2010. Scotland became the first woman of color to achieve this position. In 2016, appointed as Secretary General of the Commonwealth, focusing on empowerment and resources for member states and emphasizing women's rights. Throughout the career, legal reform and public service were pivotal areas of focus, along with initiatives promoting justice and equality.
Continue ReadingSatya Nadella
CEO of Microsoft
Born
August 19th, 1967 58 years ago
An Indian-American business executive, chair and CEO of Microsoft since 2014, led the company through significant growth and transformation. Focused on cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and enhancing productivity tools. Played a central role in shifting Microsoft's strategy towards a mobile-first, cloud-first vision. Prior to becoming CEO, held leadership roles in enterprise and cloud computing, including overseeing the server and tools division.
Continue ReadingCoco Chanel
Fashion designer and founder of Chanel
Born
August 19th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent French fashion designer revolutionized women's fashion in the early 20th century. Founded the Chanel Company, which became synonymous with luxury and elegance. Created the iconic Chanel No. 5 perfume and the Chanel suit, both of which redefined femininity and style. Her designs emphasized comfort and simplicity, moving away from the restrictive garments of the era. The little black dress emerged as a staple in women's wardrobes through her influence. Chanel's work extended beyond fashion to include jewelry and accessories, solidifying her brand as an enduring symbol of fashion.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Michel-Jean Sedaine
French playwright and librettist
Born
July 4th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1797 228 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in the French theatre of the 18th century, contributed to the genre of comic opera. Wrote several successful plays and librettos, collaborating with composers like François Andrieux. Works include the comédie lyrique 'Zémire et Azor' and the play 'L'Épreuve'. His writings reflected the artistic movements of the time and showcased his ability to blend humor with social commentary.
Continue ReadingJorge Rafael Videla
Argentinian general and President
Born
August 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 43rd President of Argentina from 1976 to 1981 following a military coup. Led the country during the Dirty War, a period characterized by widespread human rights abuses. Implemented policies aimed at suppressing dissent and promoting economic reforms. Oversaw actions that resulted in the disappearance and torture of thousands.
Continue ReadingAsa Packer
American businessman and university founder
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1879 146 years ago — 74 years old
A businessman from Pennsylvania, established a significant fortune in the railroad industry. Founded Lehigh University in 1865, contributing to higher education in the region. Involved in various philanthropic efforts aimed at supporting education and infrastructure development in Pennsylvania. His investments in railroads had a lasting influence on regional commerce.
Continue ReadingGeorge Boleyn
English courtier and diplomat
Born
1504 522 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1536 489 years ago — 32 years old
Held the title of 2nd Viscount Rochford and served as a prominent courtier during the Tudor period. Engaged in diplomatic missions on behalf of the English crown, contributing to various political affairs. Appointed Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, overseeing significant logistical and maritime operations. Involved in the court life of Henry VIII and influential in the rise of Anne Boleyn, which intertwined with personal and political dynamics of the time.
Continue ReadingFrank G. Slaughter
Physician and author of medical fiction
Born
February 25th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2001 24 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1908, this American authored numerous novels that blended medical themes with engaging storytelling. A medical doctor by training, focused on writing from the 1950s onward, producing works that highlighted the intricacies of the medical profession and personal stories of survival. Several of these novels became bestsellers, appealing to a wide audience and bringing attention to various medical conditions and ethical dilemmas. Additionally, served as a medical consultant for television programs, which helped bridge the gap between real medical practice and entertainment.
Continue ReadingEmpress Dowager Hu of Northern Wei
Empress Dowager of Northern Wei dynasty
Died
May 17th, 528 1497 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the Empress Dowager during the Northern Wei dynasty in China. Became regent after the death of her husband, Emperor Xiaowen. Played a significant role in promoting Buddhism within the court and influencing political decisions. Her reign was marked by the consolidation of power and the establishment of the Northern Wei as a major dynasty in northern China.
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