Turk Broda
Ice Hockey Player and Coach with Leafs
Born in 1914, a prominent ice hockey player and coach contributed significantly to the sport. Played as a goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1936 to 1952, achieving considerable success. Secured five Stanley Cup championships with the Maple Leafs in the years 1942, 1945, 1947, 1948, and 1949. Transitioned into coaching, leading teams in various leagues. After retiring from playing, continued to influence the game through a coaching career that helped develop future players and strategies.
Five-time Stanley Cup champion with Toronto Maple Leafs
Played as a goaltender from 1936 to 1952
Coached in various ice hockey leagues after retirement
Other People Born on May 15th
John Storey
Australian politician, 20th Premier
Born
May 15th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1921 104 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent Australian politician, served as the 20th Premier of New South Wales from 1920 to 1921. Entered politics through the Labor Party and represented the electoral district of Newtown. Focused on social reform, including labor rights and public infrastructure. Played a significant role in the New South Wales government during the post-World War I period, addressing economic recovery and social issues. Resigned in 1921 and remained active in public life until his death in 1931.
Continue ReadingViktor Vasnetsov
Russian painter and illustrator
Born
May 15th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1926 99 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent Russian painter and illustrator, active during the late 19th century. Specialized in historical and mythological themes, often depicting Slavic folklore and legends. His most celebrated works include 'The Knight at the Crossroads' and 'The Alenushka.' Vasnetsov also contributed to the decorative arts, including designing churches and creating mosaics. His work played a significant role in the development of the Russian national artistic style.
Continue ReadingSébastien Le Prestre de Vauban
French military engineer and fortification expert
Born
May 15th, 1633 392 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1707 318 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent French military engineer, contributions centered on the development of fortified cities and modern military architecture. Served as a marshal of France under Louis XIV. Advanced the art of fortification through principles that emphasized geometric design and comprehensive defensive systems. Authored several treatises on military engineering, influencing the design of fortresses in Europe for centuries.
Continue ReadingDavid Adams
American baseball player and infielder
Born
May 15th, 1987 38 years ago
An infielder in Major League Baseball, contributions included playing for the New York Yankees and the Tampa Bay Rays. Achieved significant success in the minor leagues, with a standout performance that garnered attention from major league teams. Played collegiate baseball at the University of Virginia, contributing to the team's success before turning professional. Participated in various positions across the infield, showcasing versatility.
Continue ReadingUlrich Beck
German sociologist and risk society theorist
Born
May 15th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 11 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent sociologist, contributed significantly to social theory with the concept of 'risk society.' Focused on the implications of modernity and globalization, examining how societal risks shape human behavior and institutional responses. Authored influential works, including 'Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity' and 'The Reinvention of Politics.' Explored themes of individualization, ecological crisis, and the transformation of social structures. Established a framework for understanding the relationship between risks and societal changes.
Continue ReadingDan Patrick
Television sportscaster and anchor
Born
May 15th, 1956 69 years ago
Television anchor and sportscaster began career in the late 1970s, hosting various sports programs. Gained prominence with the ESPN network in the 1990s as co-host of the 'SportsCenter' program. Established the 'Dan Patrick Show' in 2007, which blends sports commentary with pop culture. Has contributed to major sports events and hosted radio shows, enhancing sports media coverage. Received multiple awards for contributions to sports broadcasting and established a significant presence in both television and radio.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 17th
Wilhelmina Hay Abbott
Scottish suffragist and feminist leader
Born
May 22nd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1957 68 years ago — 73 years old
Significant contributions were made to the suffrage movement in Scotland. Active in campaigning for women's voting rights, efforts included organizing events, meetings, and participating in protests. Played a key role in the establishment of the Scottish Women's Suffrage Society. Engaged with various women's organizations, promoting equality and social justice. Writings on women's rights also highlighted societal issues and advocated for change.
Continue ReadingMargaret Mary Alacoque
French nun and mystic, sainted figure
Born
July 22nd, 1647 378 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1690 335 years ago — 43 years old
Born in France in 1647, dedicated life to religious service and mystical experiences. Joined the Visitation Order and became a significant figure in promoting devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Spent years facing trials and illnesses but continued to receive visions that reinforced her beliefs. Canonized in 1920 for contributions to Catholic spirituality, particularly in fostering the understanding of Jesus' love for humanity. Founded several convents and inspired many through writings and teachings on the Sacred Heart.
Continue ReadingAlfons 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 ReadingRehavam Ze'evi
Israeli general and Minister of Tourism
Born
June 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2001 24 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1926, a general who served in the Israel Defense Forces and later entered politics. As the 9th Minister of Tourism, played a significant role in shaping Israeli tourism policy. His military career included key positions during pivotal conflicts such as the Six-Day War and the Yom Kippur War. Transitioned to the Knesset and became a prominent figure in the National Religious Party. Advocated for a strong security policy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Continue ReadingJoachim Nielsen
Norwegian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
September 8th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2000 25 years ago — 36 years old
Born in 1964, a significant figure in Norwegian rock music, primarily recognized for contributions to the band Jokke & Valentinerne. The band's fusion of punk and rock influenced the music scene in Norway during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Nielsen's songwriting often reflected personal and societal themes, resonating with a wide audience. The band released several albums, and their song 'Eg e' like deg' became iconic in Norwegian music. Nielsen's career was marked by struggles with addiction, and his life ended prematurely in 2000, yet his music continues to resonate.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Gronchi
Italian politician, 3rd President of Italy
Born
September 10th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1978 47 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 3rd President of Italy from 1955 to 1962. Played a significant role in the Italian political landscape during the mid-20th century. Held various positions within the Italian government, including Minister of Posts and Telecommunications. Focused on fostering relationships with other countries and contributing to European integration.
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