Toe Blake
Ice hockey player and coach, Montreal Canadiens
Played professional ice hockey and later became a successful coach in the National Hockey League (NHL). As a player, won three Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens. Transitioned to coaching, leading the Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships from the bench. Recognized for contributions to the sport and significant wins during a prolific coaching career.
Played for the Montreal Canadiens
Coached the Montreal Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup victories
Other People Born on August 21st
Patrick Juvet
Swiss singer-songwriter and model
Born
August 21st, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Switzerland, a singer-songwriter emerged in the 1970s music scene, gaining recognition for contributions to the pop and disco genres. Released notable albums, including 'Lady of Ice' and 'Où sont les femmes?', which achieved commercial success in Europe. Transitioned from music to modeling, showcasing versatility across creative fields. Maintained a presence in the music industry for decades, influencing future generations.
Continue ReadingArthur Bremer
American attempted assassin
Born
August 21st, 1950 75 years ago
An individual attempted to assassinate George Wallace, the Governor of Alabama, in 1972 during a presidential campaign event in Laurel, Maryland. The assassination attempt resulted in Wallace being paralyzed from the waist down. Following the attempt, Bremer was charged, convicted, and sentenced to 63 years in prison. Bremer's motivations and actions raised discussions around mental health and political violence in the United States.
Continue ReadingJiří Paroubek
Czech politician and Prime Minister
Born
August 21st, 1952 73 years ago
Served as the sixth Prime Minister of the Czech Republic from 2005 to 2006. Held the position during a time of significant political change and challenges. Previously served as Minister of Regional Development and was a prominent figure in Czech social democracy. Participated actively in party politics and local governance, contributing to the shaping of policies within the Czech Republic.
Continue ReadingEric Goles
Chilean mathematician and computer scientist
Born
August 21st, 1951 74 years ago
A mathematician and computer scientist contributed significantly to the field of cellular automata and algorithmic complexity. Developed Goles's theorem in 1995, which is a fundamental result in the theory of cellular automata. Served as a professor at various universities in Chile, specializing in the areas of mathematical logic and theoretical computer science. Engaged in research that explored intersections between mathematics and computer science, influencing both disciplines.
Continue ReadingJohn Wetteland
Baseball pitcher, 1996 World Series MVP
Born
August 21st, 1966 59 years ago
Played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball for teams such as the New York Yankees, Texas Rangers, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Achieved World Series MVP in 1996 while with the Yankees. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, sharing expertise with aspiring players. Wetteland's career was marked by his effective closing abilities and contributions to championship teams.
Continue ReadingChesley V. Morton
American businessman and politician
Born
August 21st, 1951 74 years ago
A businessman and politician, contributed significantly to regional economic development. Served as a member of the Illinois House of Representatives for several terms. Focused on policies related to business growth, infrastructure improvements, and community services. Held leadership roles in various committees aimed at enhancing local governance and economic initiatives. Had a background in business management, fostering partnerships to advance economic objectives in the region.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Lionel Pickens
American rapper with hit albums
Born
1983 43 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 32 years old
A rapper, recognized for contributions to the hip-hop genre. Gained popularity in the 2000s, particularly for work as a member of the rap group Three 6 Mafia. Released several solo projects and collaborated with various artists, solidifying a presence in the music industry. Won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for the track 'It's Hard out Here for a Pimp' featured in the film 'Hustle & Flow'.
Continue ReadingHerman Wouk
American novelist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
May 27th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2019 6 years ago — 103 years old
A prominent American novelist, one of the most recognized works includes 'The Caine Mutiny,' which depicts a military court trial during World War II. Another significant novel, 'War and Remembrance,' explores the experiences of a Jewish family during the Holocaust. Wouk's writing often addresses themes of faith, morality, and the human condition, reflecting his Jewish background and experiences. He received widespread acclaim and several awards throughout his career, including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1952 for 'The Caine Mutiny.' His literary works have been adapted into successful films and television series, further extending their reach and influence.
Continue ReadingHarmon Killebrew
Baseball player, 1969 AL MVP
Born
June 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 74 years old
A professional baseball player, Killebrew spent the majority of his career with the Minnesota Twins. Renowned as a power hitter, he contributed significantly to the team’s success during the 1960s and early 1970s. One of the defining moments of his career came in 1969, when he won the American League Most Valuable Player award, highlighting his exceptional performance throughout the season. Killebrew's career encompassed numerous All-Star selections and he was pivotal in leading the Twins to the World Series in 1965, where the team faced the Los Angeles Dodgers. His prolific home run hitting ability established him as one of the premier sluggers of his era, making a lasting impression in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingDonna Summer
Singer-songwriter with disco hits
Born
1948 78 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent singer-songwriter rose to fame in the 1970s as a defining voice of the disco era. Achieved mainstream success with hits like 'Love to Love You Baby', 'Bad Girls', and 'Last Dance'. Received multiple Grammy Awards and achieved commercial success with numerous best-selling albums. Contributed to the transformation of pop music with a unique blend of disco, soul, and rock influences. Continued to perform and release music until death in 2012.
Continue ReadingCass Gilbert
Architect, designed Supreme Court Building
Born
November 24th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1934 91 years ago — 74 years old
An American architect, contributed significantly to the architectural landscape of the early 20th century. Gained prominence for designing the Woolworth Building in New York City, which was the tallest building in the world at its completion in 1913. Closely associated with the design of the United States Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C., completed in 1935. His works are marked by classical styles that blend with modern elements, underscoring his commitment to craftsmanship and detail.
Continue ReadingLloyd Alexander
American author of fantasy literature
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2007 18 years ago — 83 years old
An influential American author and soldier, this individual became well recognized for writing children's and young adult fantasy novels. The most notable work is the 'Chronicles of Prydain' series, which includes 'The Book of Three' and 'The Black Cauldron'. The series is celebrated for its rich storytelling and memorable characters. Beyond literature, the author served at the end of World War II in the United States Army, which contributed to a depth of experience reflected in later writings. The individual's works combined adventure and moral themes, resonating with readers for decades.
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