Thomas McIlwraith

Politician and 8th Premier of Queensland

Thomas McIlwraith - Politician and 8th Premier of Queensland
Born

May 17th, 1835
190 years ago

Died

July 17th, 1900
125 years ago — 65 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Australia

Links & References

Born in Scotland, later migrated to Australia. Served as the 8th Premier of Queensland, holding office from 1879 to 1880 and again from 1883 to 1888. Played a key role in the development of the state's railway system, advocating for infrastructure improvements. Engaged in effective land reform policies. Contributed to the expansion of Queensland's economy through various initiatives.

Served as the 8th Premier of Queensland

Promoted railway development in Queensland

Implemented land reform policies

Other People Born on May 17th

Dan Hardy

Mixed Martial Artist, UFC Fighter
Born
May 17th, 1982 43 years ago

Competed in the welterweight division of mixed martial arts, participating in several high-profile events. Achieved the rank of number one contender for the UFC Welterweight Championship. Also transitioned into a successful career as a commentator and analyst for MMA events, providing insights and expertise on the sport.

Continue Reading

Dennis Potter

English screenwriter and television director
Born
May 17th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent screenwriter and director, contributions spanned television and film. Created influential works that explored complex characters and narratives. Notable for the television series 'Pennies from Heaven' and 'The Singing Detective', which garnered critical acclaim and audience attention. Utilized innovative storytelling techniques and incorporated musical elements into scripts. Later works addressed themes of mortality and memory, reflecting personal experiences.

Continue Reading

Sirajuddin of Perlis

Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia
Born
May 17th, 1943 82 years ago

Served as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the king of Malaysia, from December 2001 to December 2006. Born in Perlis, ascended the throne as the 12th king of Malaysia, a unique position rotated among the nine Malay rulers. Held various significant roles in public service, including as the Sultan of Perlis. Contributed to the welfare of the people through engagement in various charitable activities and development programs.

Continue Reading

Maureen O'Sullivan

Irish-American actress in Tarzan films
Born
May 17th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1998 27 years ago — 87 years old

An Irish-American actress gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s. Starred as Jane in the Tarzan film series alongside Johnny Weissmuller, beginning with 'Tarzan the Ape Man' released in 1932. O'Sullivan also appeared in a variety of films including 'The Thin Man' and 'Pride and Prejudice'. Her career spanned several decades, and she worked with notable filmmakers and actors. She returned to the big screen later in her career with appearances in television series, most notably 'Dr. Kildare'.

Continue Reading

Carmen de Icaza

Spanish writer and novelist
Born
May 17th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Spain in 1899, this writer became prominent in the mid-20th century. She contributed significantly to Spanish literature, particularly through her novels which explored themes of love and human emotion. One of the most notable works is 'El bosque de los sueños', which garnered critical acclaim and reflected the social conditions of the time. Throughout her career, she wrote numerous novels and essays that resonated with readers, showcasing her literary talent and her ability to capture the complexities of life.

Continue Reading

Dietmar Schönherr

Actor and director in Spanish cinema
Born
May 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1926, this individual worked extensively in film and television in both Austria and Spain. A significant part of the career included leading roles in the popular Spanish television series 'Veterinarios' and 'El gran teatro del mundo.' In addition to acting, direction and screenwriting were also key elements of the professional life, contributing to multiple Spanish productions. The creative endeavors spanned several decades, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 17th

Elaine Stritch

American actress and singer on Broadway
Born
February 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old

A celebrated actress and singer, this individual gained prominence in the Broadway theatre scene. Her performances showcased a distinctive blend of talent and personality. Significant roles included appearances in the musicals 'Company' and 'Growing Up', as well as her one-woman show 'Elaine Stritch at Liberty', which highlighted her life and career. In television, a memorable role occurred in the series '30 Rock', where the character Colleen Donaghy became notable. Recognized for a commanding stage presence, contributions spanned multiple decades beginning in the 1940s into the 21st century.

Continue Reading

Konstantine Gamsakhurdia

Georgian author and playwright
Born
May 3rd, 1893 132 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1975 50 years ago — 82 years old

An influential Georgian author and playwright contributed significantly to Georgian literature. Involved in various literary movements, he blended drama with national themes, reflecting the societal changes of his time. Received recognition for works that explored the complexities of Georgian identity and culture. Active in the 20th century, produced numerous writings that emphasized the importance of the Georgian language and heritage.

Continue Reading

Dmitry Shemyaka

Grand Prince of Moscow, rival of power
Died
July 17th, 1453 572 years ago — None years old

Served as Grand Prince of Moscow during a tumultuous period marked by dynastic struggles. Engaged in power struggles against rival princes, including a significant conflict with Vasily II. Maintained control over Moscow while navigating alliances and enmities among various Russian principalities. His reign was characterized by efforts to consolidate power and expand territorial claims, contributing to the continuing evolution of the Grand Duchy of Moscow as a dominant force in Russia.

Continue Reading

Owen Chadwick

Rugby player and historian, authored books
Born
May 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 99 years old

Played rugby union for England and served as a historian and academic. Contributed significantly to the field of modern history with a particular focus on the Methodist Church and British history. Authored several books, adding depth to historical scholarship and fostering academic discussions on religion and history.

Continue Reading

Charlotte Corday

French revolutionary figure and assassin
Born
July 27th, 1768 257 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1793 232 years ago — 24 years old

An assassin participated in the French Revolution, targeting Jean-Paul Marat. Corday believed that eliminating Marat would help restore peace to France during a time of intense political turmoil. Corday gained access to Marat under the pretense of delivering important information. Upon meeting him in his bath, she fatally stabbed him on July 13, 1793. Following her capture, she was tried and executed by guillotine just four days later. This act has been interpreted as a statement against the violent revolutionary fervor and has made Corday a historical figure in discussions about the revolution's moral complexities.

Continue Reading

Sam Myers

American blues singer-songwriter
Born
February 19th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent blues artist in the American music scene, contributed to the Delta blues tradition. Collaborated with notable musicians and bands throughout a lengthy career. Gained recognition for soulful vocals and harmonica playing. Released several albums, showcasing original compositions and classic blues standards. Performed extensively, earning respect in the blues community.

Continue Reading