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
Kaapo Kakko
Finnish ice hockey player, NHL forward
Born
February 13th, 2001 25 years ago
Born in 2001, this Finnish ice hockey player played as a forward in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the New York Rangers. Drafted second overall in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, he gained recognition for his scoring ability and strong two-way play. Kakko contributed to the Rangers' playoff run and represented Finland in international competitions, including the IIHF World Junior Championships.
Continue ReadingGeorgios Papandreou
Prime Minister of Greece during WWII
Born
February 13th, 1888 138 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1968 57 years ago — 80 years old
A lawyer and economist, served as the 162nd Prime Minister of Greece. Held office during a critical period of World War II, facing significant challenges related to the occupation of Greece. Engaged in political activity prior to and following the war, contributing to the discussions on democracy and governance in Greece. Also served as the mayor of Athens, advocating for urban development. His political career spanned several decades, influencing post-war policies.
Continue ReadingAqib Talib
American football cornerback and Super Bowl champion
Born
February 13th, 1986 40 years ago
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) for teams including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots, and Denver Broncos. Contributed to the Broncos' victory in Super Bowl 50. Recognized for his defensive skills and ability to intercept passes, achieving multiple Pro Bowl selections throughout the career. Retired after a successful tenure that left a significant mark on the field.
Continue ReadingPeter Gustav Lejeune Dirichlet
German mathematician and academic
Born
February 13th, 1805 221 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1859 167 years ago — 54 years old
Contributed significantly to number theory, analysis, and mathematical physics. Introduced Dirichlet's theorem on arithmetic progressions, which established conditions for prime numbers in specific sequences. Developed the concept of a Dirichlet series and made advances in the study of functions, particularly Dirichlet conditions. Served as a professor at the University of Göttingen for many years, influencing future generations of mathematicians.
Continue ReadingWilliam Shockley
Physicist and Nobel laureate in physics
Born
February 13th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1989 36 years ago — 79 years old
An English-American physicist and academic, contributions included the invention of the transistor, which significantly advanced electronic technology. Affiliated with Stanford University, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1956 along with John Bardeen and Walter Brattain for their roles in the development of the transistor. Later focused on controversial research related to genetics and intelligence.
Continue ReadingAung San
Burmese general and politician
Born
February 13th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1947 78 years ago — 32 years old
Served as a general in the Burma Independence Army and played a significant role in the struggle for independence from British rule. Became the 5th Premier of the British Crown Colony of Burma in 1947. Instrumental in the formation of the Anti-Fascist People’s Freedom League and in negotiations with the British government for Burma's independence. Assassinated in 1947 shortly after securing the promise of full independence.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 17th
Uzi Hitman
Israeli singer-songwriter and composer
Born
June 9th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
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Continue ReadingTom Smith
American businessman and politician
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 68 years old
A businessman involved in various industries, played a significant role in local politics and served as a council member. Focused on economic development initiatives and worked to create jobs in the community. Held multiple leadership positions within local organizations and contributed to policy-making that affected the region's growth. Established a reputation for advocating for business interests and supporting legislation aimed at boosting the local economy.
Continue ReadingChris Acland
Musician and drummer of Lush
Born
1966 60 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1996 29 years ago — 30 years old
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Continue ReadingLevi Stubbs
American singer of The Four Tops
Born
June 6th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent soul singer, celebrated for being the lead vocalist of the Motown group The Four Tops. The group achieved widespread success in the 1960s and 1970s with a series of hit songs. The most enduring hits include 'I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch),' 'Reach Out I'll Be There,' and 'It’s the Same Old Song.' Stubbs's powerful and emotive voice helped define the sound of the period and left a lasting legacy in the music industry. The Four Tops continued to perform well into the 21st century, ensuring the group's music remained popular through multiple generations.
Continue ReadingBerndt von Staden
German diplomat, Ambassador to USA
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old
Served as a German diplomat and held the position of German Ambassador to the United States from 1999 to 2002. Played a significant role in diplomatic relations between Germany and the U.S. during his tenure. Engaged in discussions on various international issues and represented German interests in Washington, D.C. Had a background in various diplomatic roles before the ambassadorship, enhancing bilateral relations and promoting cooperation in several areas.
Continue ReadingToshiyuki Nishida
Japanese actor with notable TV roles
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in Japanese television and film, the artist gained significant recognition for performances in popular dramas. Starred in the long-running series 'Tsuribaka Nishi Shonben' and 'Hanzawa Naoki', achieving considerable acclaim. Involved in various theater productions, showcasing a versatile acting style that appealed to audiences. The lifelong contribution to the arts left a lasting legacy, influencing future generations of actors.
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