Valeriya Novodvorskaya

Russian journalist and politician

Valeriya Novodvorskaya - Russian journalist and politician
Born

May 17th, 1950
75 years ago

Died

July 12th, 2014
11 years ago — 64 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

Russia

Links & References

Born in 1950, a prominent journalist and politician in Russia, actively engaged in opposition politics and human rights advocacy. Played a significant role in the Democratic Party of Russia and co-founded the Union of Right Forces. Novodvorskaya's career spanned several decades, reflecting a commitment to free speech and political reform. Often voiced opposition to the policies of various Russian governments, leading to both public support and criticism. Authored numerous articles and essays, contributing to the discourse on democracy and civil liberties in post-Soviet Russia.

Founded the Democratic Party of Russia

Advocated for human rights and democracy

Other People Born on May 17th

Edward Jenner

Physician, developer of smallpox vaccine
Born
May 17th, 1749 276 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1823 202 years ago — 73 years old

A pioneering physician and microbiologist, contributed significantly to the field of immunology. Developed the first successful smallpox vaccine in 1796, which laid the foundation for modern vaccination techniques. His work enabled the global eradication of smallpox, a disease that had caused countless deaths throughout history. The procedure used cowpox material to create immunity against smallpox. His findings prompted further research into the immune system and vaccinations.

Continue Reading

Queen Máxima of the Netherlands

Dutch Royal and Queen Consort
Born
May 17th, 1971 54 years ago

Born on May 17, 1971, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, served as a consultant for the United Nations and worked in the financial sector before marrying the Dutch crown prince in 2002. Became Queen Consort upon the ascension of her husband in 2013. Engaged in various social issues including microfinance, cultural integration, and education, promoting well-being and financial inclusion in the Netherlands and abroad.

Continue Reading

Channing Frye

Basketball player, NBA Champion
Born
May 17th, 1983 42 years ago

Born in 1983, this American basketball player played college basketball for the University of Arizona. Drafted in 2005 by the New York Knicks, played for several NBA teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers, Phoenix Suns, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Achieved significant success with the Cavaliers, contributing to the team's 2016 NBA Championship victory. Known for effective three-point shooting and strong offensive skills, played a pivotal role in the Cavaliers' playoff run during that championship season.

Continue Reading

Archibald Cox

American lawyer and 31st Solicitor General
Born
May 17th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2004 21 years ago — 92 years old

Practiced law after graduating from Harvard Law School. Served as the 31st United States Solicitor General from 1961 to 1965, representing the federal government before the Supreme Court. Appointed as special prosecutor during the Watergate scandal, overseeing the investigation of the Nixon administration's role in the affair. His tenure included the critical moment known as the Saturday Night Massacre, when he was dismissed by President Nixon, which intensified public outcry and led to further investigations.

Continue Reading

Hazel R. O'Leary

Lawyer and 7th U.S. Secretary of Energy
Born
May 17th, 1937 88 years ago

Served as the 7th Secretary of Energy from 1993 to 1995. Oversaw the department during significant nuclear safety reforms and increased transparency regarding the U.S. nuclear weapons program. Advocated for environmental justice and energy policy reforms during tenure. Worked as a lawyer before holding the Cabinet position, including serving as a Vice President of Public Affairs for a notable utility company.

Continue Reading

Johnny Warren

Footballer, coach, and sportscaster
Born
May 17th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2004 20 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in Australian football, contributed significantly to the sport as both a player and coach. Played for the national team and was instrumental in promoting football in Australia. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting, providing insights and analysis that shaped public understanding of the game. His commitment to the sport led to the establishment of football as a respected discipline in Australia, fostering a new generation of players and fans.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 12th

Evaristo Felice Dall'Abaco

Italian violinist and composer of concertos
Born
July 12th, 1675 350 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1742 283 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1675, this Italian violinist and composer contributed significantly to the development of the violin concerto. Active during the late Baroque period, he wrote numerous compositions that showcased the capabilities of the violin. His works reflect a blend of Italian and German influences, highlighting virtuosic violin techniques. This musician held various positions, including working in various courts across Europe. Dall'Abaco also published several important treatises on music and composition, helping to educate future generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Alexander Cartwright

Firefighter and inventor of baseball
Born
April 17th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1892 133 years ago — 72 years old

A firefighter contributed to the development of baseball, which evolved into the modern game. Established fundamental rules for the sport while serving as a member of the Knickerbocker Base Ball Club in New York City. Organized and promoted the first formal baseball game in 1846. His influential role in shaping the rules and structure of baseball helped lead to its widespread popularity throughout the United States.

Continue Reading

Alfred Dreyfus

French military officer and political figure
Born
October 9th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1935 90 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1859, this French military officer served as a captain in the French Army. In 1894, he was wrongfully convicted of treason, primarily due to anti-Semitic sentiments prevalent in France at the time. The case became a major political scandal, leading to widespread public debate over injustice, nationalism, and social values in France. The affair prompted significant public protests and involvement from prominent intellectuals, aiming to overturn the conviction. Eventually, in 1906, a court of appeals exonerated him, restoring his rank and name. The Dreyfus Affair had lasting effects on French society and politics, influencing debates around civil rights and military conduct.

Continue Reading

John Chancellor

American journalist and news anchor
Born
July 14th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1996 29 years ago — 68 years old

Worked as a journalist for over three decades, focusing on investigative reporting and broadcasting. Served as a chief anchor and managing editor for NBC Nightly News from 1970 to 1982. Played a significant role in news coverage during pivotal historical events, including the Vietnam War and Watergate scandal. Contributed to public understanding of complex issues through various specials and documentaries. Received multiple awards for journalistic excellence, including the Peabody Award.

Continue Reading

Hamid Samandarian

Iranian director and playwright
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old

Significant contributions to Iranian theatre occurred. Directed numerous productions that highlighted social and political issues. Established a reputation for innovative staging and dramatic techniques. Over the years, worked with various theatre companies and influenced a generation of actors and playwrights through mentorship and collaboration.

Continue Reading

Bobby Murcer

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
May 20th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 62 years old

A baseball player, coach, and sportscaster, the individual played primarily for the New York Yankees. Career in Major League Baseball spanned 17 seasons, debuting in 1965. As an outfielder, achieved 1,400 hits, 175 home runs, and 1,000 runs batted in. Transitioned to sportscasting after retirement, becoming a prominent Yankees broadcaster and earning recognition in the field.

Continue Reading