Urmas Ott
Estonian journalist and author
An influential journalist and author, served as an editor for various Estonian publications. Played a significant role in the establishment of independent media in Estonia following the Soviet era. Actively contributed to the discourse on journalism and literature in Estonia, providing critical insights into the sociopolitical landscape of the country, especially during the transitional period in the early 1990s. Authored several works that explored themes of identity, freedom, and the complexities of modern Estonian society.
Edited Estonian publications
Contributed to independent media post-Soviet era
Authored works on Estonian identity and freedom
Other People Born on April 23rd
James Buchanan
15th President of the United States
Born
April 23rd, 1791 235 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1868 158 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the 15th President of the United States from 1857 to 1861. Held various political roles including serving as Secretary of State under President James K. Polk. Worked as a lawyer and represented Pennsylvania in the House of Representatives and the Senate. Actively involved in the Democratic Party and sought to maintain peace between the North and South prior to the Civil War.
Continue ReadingGeorges Vanier
Canadian general and Governor General
Born
April 23rd, 1888 138 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1967 59 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent figure in Canadian military and politics, served as a general in the Canadian Army during World War II. Later transitioned to a political career, becoming the 19th Governor General of Canada from 1960 until death in 1967. His tenure focused on fostering national unity and support for the arts in Canada. Vanier's contributions to both military and civil service enhanced Canada's presence in various international arenas.
Continue ReadingGeorge of Poděbrady
King of Bohemia and political leader
Born
April 23rd, 1420 606 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1471 555 years ago — 50 years old
Ruled as the King of Bohemia from 1458 until death in 1471. Initiated diplomatic relations among European states and sought to establish peace during a period of conflict. Advocated for the Hussite movement, promoting a national identity distinct from the Catholic Church. His reign was characterized by efforts to strengthen the Bohemian crown and maintain autonomy from external influences.
Continue ReadingTimothy McVeigh
Terrorist known for Oklahoma City bombing
Born
April 23rd, 1968 58 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2001 25 years ago — 33 years old
A former U.S. Army soldier orchestrated the Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 1995, resulting in 168 deaths, including 19 children. The attack targeted the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building and was the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. McVeigh sought to retaliate against the federal government, particularly in response to the incidents at Waco and Ruby Ridge. After fleeing the scene, McVeigh was arrested and convicted on multiple counts of murder and conspiracy. He received the death penalty and was executed on June 11, 2001.
Continue ReadingIvo Lola Ribar
Croatian soldier and politician
Born
April 23rd, 1916 110 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1943 82 years ago — 27 years old
A significant figure in Croatia during World War II, contributed to the resistance against Axis forces. Ribar served as a commander and played a crucial role in unifying various partisan factions. He became a prominent political leader within the Yugoslav Partisan movement. In addition to military leadership, Ribar engaged in political discourse and was instrumental in the establishment of post-war governance structures. He died during a battle in 1943, cementing his legacy within the communist movement in Yugoslavia.
Continue ReadingTony Miles
English chess player and international master
Born
April 23rd, 1955 71 years ago
Died
November 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 46 years old
An accomplished chess player, an international master achieved significant success in competitive play. Known for contributions to chess analysis and numerous tournament victories. Played for the English national team in several Chess Olympiads. Gained attention for unconventional and creative playing style, which challenged traditional chess norms. Authored books on chess strategy, sharing insights with a broader audience. His career included numerous appearances in national and international tournaments, solidifying a reputation within the chess community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 17th
Pierre Laporte
Canadian politician and Deputy Premier
Born
February 25th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1970 55 years ago — 49 years old
A Canadian lawyer and journalist held significant political roles, including serving as the Deputy Premier of Quebec. Involved in the Liberal Party, contributed to various legislative efforts during a dynamic political period in Quebec. His career was marked by advocacy for social and educational reforms. Engaged in public service during the Quiet Revolution, he emphasized the importance of modernization and governance in Quebec's development.
Continue ReadingNicholas Metropolis
American mathematician and physicist
Born
June 11th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1999 26 years ago — 84 years old
This individual contributed significantly to the development of computational techniques in physics. Involved in the Manhattan Project, played a key role in the creation of the first atomic bomb. Later, worked on the Monte Carlo method, a statistical approach used for numerical calculations. Held academic positions, influencing generations of mathematicians and physicists through teaching and mentorship. Collaborated with numerous notable scientists during a career that spanned several decades.
Continue ReadingJay Livingston
Singer-songwriter, 'Que Sera, Sera'
Born
March 28th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old
An American singer-songwriter contributed significantly to the music industry during the mid-20th century. Collaborated extensively with Ray Evans, with whom he co-wrote numerous successful songs. Secured an Oscar Award for Best Original Song for 'Que Sera, Sera' in 1956, a song that became popular through its association with the Doris Day film 'The Man Who Knew Too Much.' The partnership yielded many hit songs that remain standards in American music.
Continue ReadingHerman Johannes
Indonesian scientist and politician
Born
May 28th, 1912 114 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.
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 ReadingMichael Fitzgerald
Irish republican on hunger strike
Born
1881 145 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1920 105 years ago — 39 years old
Involved in the Irish War of Independence, participated in the struggle for Irish independence from British rule. Joined the Irish Republican Army and was arrested during the 1920 campaign. Engaged in a hunger strike to protest his detention. Died on October 17, 1920, in a British prison, which garnered attention to the Irish republican movement and the treatment of political prisoners.
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