Tennessee Ernie Ford
Singer and television host, 'Sixteen Tons'
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent American singer and television host, he gained fame during the 1950s and 1960s. His deep baritone voice contributed to a successful music career, highlighted by the hit single 'Sixteen Tons'. In addition to music, he hosted 'The Tennessee Ernie Ford Show' on television, which blended entertainment with music. His contributions to the country and pop music genres helped solidify his place in Americana.
Released the hit 'Sixteen Tons'
Hosted 'The Tennessee Ernie Ford Show'
Other People Born on February 13th
Aníbal Acevedo Vilá
Puerto Rican politician and lawyer
Born
February 13th, 1962 64 years ago
Served as the Governor of Puerto Rico from 2005 to 2009. Prior to governorship, held the position of Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico from 2001 to 2005. Engaged in various legal and political activities throughout career, focusing on public policy and government reform. Participated in significant legislative efforts during time in office.
Continue ReadingGrant Wood
American painter known for American Gothic
Born
February 13th, 1891 135 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1942 84 years ago — 50 years old
An American painter and academic played a significant role in the development of Regionalism, a movement that focused on depicting rural American life. The most recognized artwork is the iconic painting 'American Gothic', which features a farmer and his daughter in front of a Gothic-style house. Wood’s work often reflected themes of American identity and Midwestern values. In addition to painting, he taught at the University of Iowa, influencing many younger artists. His artistic contributions established a distinctive American aesthetic during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingJanet Finch
English sociologist and academic
Born
February 13th, 1946 80 years ago
Contributed extensively to sociology, particularly in the areas of family and gender studies. Served as Vice Chancellor at the University of Central Lancashire. Was involved in various academic initiatives and research focusing on social issues, contributing to several important sociological texts and studies throughout an extensive career in academia.
Continue ReadingDonald E. Williams
American astronaut and test pilot
Born
February 13th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 74 years old
Completed a distinguished career as a test pilot and astronaut. Served as pilot for the Space Shuttle Atlantis during the STS-51-J mission in 1985. Accumulated over 5,000 hours of flight time in various aircraft. Engaged in multiple military and NASA assignments, contributing to aviation advancements and space exploration.
Continue ReadingEileen Farrell
Soprano and music educator
Born
February 13th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2002 24 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent American soprano and educator, this individual had a significant influence on the world of opera and classical music. Garnering acclaim for a powerful voice and dramatic abilities, performances included leading roles in productions such as 'Tosca' and 'La Traviata.' Beyond the stage, contributions to education included teaching at various institutions, sharing knowledge and techniques with aspiring singers. The career spanned several decades, showcasing talent in both opera and concert settings, along with recordings that reached a wide audience.
Continue ReadingHarold Lasswell
Political scientist and theorist
Born
February 13th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
1978 48 years ago — 76 years old
Born on February 13, 1902, a political scientist and theorist focused on the study of power and communication in politics. Developed the concept of 'political psychology' and contributed significantly to the field of political communication. Authored several important works, including 'Politics: Who Gets What, When, How', which analyzed political processes and distribution of resources. Served as a professor at various universities, helping to shape the study of political science in the United States and abroad.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 17th
Alfons Maria Jakob
German neurologist and author of research
Born
July 2nd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1931 94 years ago — 47 years old
A neurologist and researcher who significantly contributed to the understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Early work focused on the pathology of diseases affecting the nervous system. Jakob is particularly associated with the identification of a rare prion disease, named Jakob disease after him. Published various studies that advanced the field of neurology and influenced subsequent research on neurodegeneration. His findings laid the foundation for later understanding of similar conditions, including Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
Continue ReadingCharlie Townsend
English cricketer and lawyer
Born
November 7th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1958 67 years ago — 81 years old
Achieved significant recognition in the sport of cricket during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Played for Essex and participated in 10 Test matches for England between 1902 and 1908. Developed a reputation as a formidable batsman and skilled fielder. After retiring from cricket, pursued a career in law, becoming a barrister and contributing to legal practices in London.
Continue ReadingCriss Oliva
Guitarist and songwriter for Savatage
Born
April 3rd, 1963 62 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1993 32 years ago — 30 years old
A prominent American guitarist and songwriter, significant contributions to the heavy metal genre occurred through work with the band Savatage. The band gained recognition for its unique blend of progressive and heavy metal sounds. Criss Oliva's guitar work and songwriting played a critical role in shaping the band's identity. The album 'Hall of the Mountain King' released in 1987 received acclaim and is considered a hallmark in heavy metal music. Oliva's style combined technical proficiency with melodic riffs. His life was abruptly cut short in 1993, but his legacy continues to influence guitarists and metal musicians.
Continue ReadingJoey Bishop
American actor and producer from Las Vegas
Born
February 3rd, 1918 108 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2007 18 years ago — 89 years old
An American actor and producer, known for early television and film work. Gained prominence as a member of the Rat Pack alongside Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Hosted the 'Joey Bishop Show,' which aired from 1967 to 1969 and was one of the first late-night talk shows. Appeared in movies such as 'Ocean's 11' and 'The Last Rites of Jeff Myrtlebank.' His career spanned several decades, contributing to both film and television as a prominent figure in comedy and entertainment.
Continue ReadingDimitrios Maximos
Greek Prime Minister and banker
Born
July 6th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1955 70 years ago — 82 years old
A banker and politician served as the 140th Prime Minister of Greece. Held office in 1945 during a pivotal post-war period. Prior to his premiership, involved in important financial roles that shaped banking policies in Greece. Advocated for economic recovery efforts after World War II. Played a significant role in the social and political landscape of Greece during challenging times.
Continue ReadingHerman Johannes
Indonesian scientist and politician
Born
May 28th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1992 33 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to Indonesian education and science. Served as the rector of the University of Indonesia and held various academic positions. Played a role in the formulation of educational policies in Indonesia. Engaged in politics and was part of the Indonesian Parliament, advocating for scientific advancement in the nation.
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