Sophie Kurys

Professional Baseball Player, All-American Girls

Sophie Kurys - Professional Baseball Player, All-American Girls
Born

May 14th, 1925
100 years ago

Died

February 17th, 2013
12 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

A professional baseball player who played as a shortstop in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Notable for her speed and agility on the field, contributed significantly to her team's performance. Played for the Racine Belles and the Fort Wayne Daisies during the league's operation. Excelled as a base stealer and set records for stolen bases, showcasing exceptional athleticism and skill during games. The league was featured in the film 'A League of Their Own', highlighting the contributions of women in baseball.

Played for the Racine Belles

Played for the Fort Wayne Daisies

Set records for stolen bases

Other People Born on May 14th

Ethel Johnson

Professional wrestler and pioneer
Born
May 14th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2018 7 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1935, the individual made significant contributions to women's professional wrestling. The career began in the 1950s, during a time when women's wrestling faced substantial challenges and limited recognition. This wrestler competed in numerous promotions, establishing a prominent presence in the ring. Known for strength and skill, performances captivated audiences across the United States. The individual helped pave the way for future generations of female wrestlers, breaking gender barriers and elevating the visibility of women's sports. The influence extended beyond the ring, contributing to changing perceptions of women in athletics.

Continue Reading

Leo Smit

Composer and pianist, wrote 'Keizersgracht'.
Born
May 14th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 43 years old

Born in the Netherlands, a pianist and composer achieved recognition in 20th-century classical music. Completed works in various musical forms, including orchestral, chamber, and vocal music. Actively contributed to the Dutch music scene and taught at conservatories, influencing emerging musicians. Notably composed 'Concerto for Piano and Orchestra' and diverse pieces inspired by Dutch culture. His compositions often reflected the music styles of his time, integrating traditional and contemporary elements. Continued to perform and publish works until retirement, leaving a lasting legacy in the Dutch music landscape.

Continue Reading

Alvin Lucier

Composer known for 'I Am Sitting in a Room'
Born
May 14th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent composer and academic, contributed significantly to the field of experimental music. Received an A.B. from the University of New Hampshire and studied at Brandeis University. Developed a unique style that often incorporated speech and sound, aiming to explore the relationship between music and the physical environment. Created works that investigated sound and its perceptual implications. Taught at multiple institutions, sharing knowledge with emerging musicians and composers.

Continue Reading

Francesco Rasi

Italian singer-songwriter and poet
Born
May 14th, 1574 451 years ago
Died
1621 404 years ago — 47 years old

Born in 1574, a significant figure in the early Baroque musical landscape, Rasi excelled as a singer-songwriter and theorbo player. His contributions to the genre of opera are notable, particularly with the composition of 'Euridice,' which is recognized as one of the first operas ever produced. This work was performed in Florence and continues to be a crucial part of the operatic repertoire. Additionally, Rasi's poetry complemented his musical compositions, further enriching the cultural fabric of the time.

Continue Reading

Gene Cornish

Guitarist and member of The Rascals
Born
May 14th, 1944 81 years ago

Born in 1944, a guitarist who gained prominence as a member of the rock band The Rascals. The band became a significant part of the 1960s music scene in the United States. They produced several hit songs including 'Good Lovin'' and 'Groovin''. In addition to performing, contributed to the band’s songwriting process. The Rascals' style blended rock, soul, and blue-eyed soul. The band's influence extended beyond their active years, and they continue to be celebrated in rock music history.

Continue Reading

Anne Clark

Singer-songwriter and poet with 'Sleeper's' success
Born
May 14th, 1960 65 years ago

Born in 1960, this English singer-songwriter and poet gained prominence in the music scene during the 1980s. With a unique blend of spoken word and electronic music, produced influential works that resonated with a diverse audience. Released notable albums including 'The Sitting Room' and 'Electra', with 'Sleeper' becoming a standout track. The innovative use of language and sound combined to create a distinctive style that left a lasting mark on alternative music. Engaged in live performances, captivating audiences with compelling lyrical content and visual presentations. Continued to release music into the 21st century, solidifying a lasting legacy within the genre.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 17th

Louis Marchand

Organist and composer of the Baroque period
Born
February 2nd, 1669 356 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1732 293 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent French organist and composer during the Baroque period, gained recognition for virtuosic performances and influential compositions for the organ. Marchand played a significant role in the development of French instrumental music and was deeply involved in the church musical traditions of the time. His influence extended through his pupils, and he contributed to the repertoire of both organ and keyboard music. A key figure in the musical life of France, he held positions as an organist in various churches and served in the court of King Louis XIV.

Continue Reading

Joseph Kearns

Actor in 'Leave It to Beaver'
Born
February 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1962 63 years ago — 55 years old

An American actor gained prominence through a memorable role as the father, Steve, in the television series 'Leave It to Beaver', which aired from 1957 to 1963. Kearns began his career in radio and transitioned to television, appearing in various shows during the early years of the medium. His performance in 'Leave It to Beaver' is often regarded as iconic, representing the quintessential American father figure. Kearns's career was cut short when he passed away in 1962, yet his legacy endures through the continued popularity of the show, influencing perceptions of family life in American culture.

Continue Reading

Steve Bechler

Baseball player for Florida Marlins
Born
1979 46 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2003 22 years ago — 24 years old

A professional baseball player played as a pitcher for the Florida Marlins in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 2001, Bechler achieved a notable career start. His life ended tragically in 2003, drawing attention to health issues in sports. Bechler's brief career is remembered for his aspirations in the game and the circumstances surrounding his death.

Continue Reading

Edgar Evans

Welsh explorer and noted Antarctic sailor
Born
1876 149 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1912 113 years ago — 36 years old

A Welsh sailor and explorer, significant contributions included participation in the early 20th-century Antarctic expeditions. Played a key role in Robert Falcon Scott's Terra Nova Expedition from 1910 to 1913. The expedition aimed to reach the South Pole and was notable for its scientific investigations and exploration of previously uncharted territory. The journey encountered extreme conditions, leading to a tragic ending for the team in 1912 when they perished while returning from the pole. The expedition's story remains a critical account of early polar exploration.

Continue Reading

Geronimo

American tribal leader and warrior
Born
1829 196 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1909 116 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent leader of the Apache tribe, played a significant role in the resistance against Mexico and Texas during the Apache Wars. Renowned for guerrilla warfare tactics and strong leadership, confronted U.S. military forces during a series of conflicts. After years of conflict and evasion, surrendered to American troops in 1886. Later became a symbol of Native American resistance and was portrayed in various cultural contexts.

Continue Reading

Ernst Jünger

German soldier and influential philosopher
Born
March 29th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 102 years old

Born in 1895, a soldier during World War I, served with distinction and received the Iron Cross. Transitioned to writing, becoming a significant philosophical voice in postwar Germany. Explored themes of nature, technology, and the human condition in works such as 'Storm of Steel,' an account of war experiences. His later writings expressed views on modernity and existentialism, influencing various intellectual circles until death in 1998.

Continue Reading