Władysław Komar

Polish shot putter and actor

Władysław Komar - Polish shot putter and actor
Born

April 11th, 1940
84 years ago

Died

August 17th, 1998
26 years ago — 58 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Poland

Links & References

Accomplished in athletics, specialized in shot put. Competed in the Olympics, winning a bronze medal at the 1968 Mexico City Games. Transitioned into acting, gaining recognition in Polish cinema. Participated in popular films, contributing to the cultural landscape of Poland.

Won bronze medal in shot put at 1968 Olympics

Appeared in the Polish film 'The Saragossa Manuscript'

Other People Born on April 11th

Gustav Vigeland

Norwegian sculptor famous for sculpture park
Born
April 11th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1943 82 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent Norwegian sculptor focused on monumental design and public art. Vigeland created the Vigeland Park in Oslo, featuring over 200 sculptures in various materials. His works reflect themes of human life, relationships, and emotions. The park remains a significant cultural attraction and showcases Vigeland's distinctive style. The artist's influence extended to architecture as well, where he integrated sculpture into urban design.

Continue Reading

Bob Harris

English journalist and radio host
Born
April 11th, 1946 78 years ago

A prominent journalist and radio host with a significant career in broadcasting. Gained recognition for hosting programs on Radio 1 and Radio 2, providing music and cultural insights. Developed a notable presence in the music industry through engaging interviews and features. Authored books focusing on music history and cultural commentary, contributing to discussions in media. Focused on various genres, particularly British pop and rock music.

Continue Reading

Richard Wainwright

English politician and MP for Colne Valley
Born
April 11th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2003 22 years ago — 84 years old

Served as a Member of Parliament for Colne Valley from 1970 to 1979. Participated actively in parliamentary debates and contributed to various committees during tenure. Engaged in politics with a focus on social issues and the needs of constituents in the region. After leaving Parliament, maintained involvement in local and political affairs.

Continue Reading

David Zeisberger

Czech-American missionary and clergyman
Born
April 11th, 1721 303 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1808 216 years ago — 87 years old

Czech-American clergyman and missionary served primarily among Native American communities in North America. Arrived in Pennsylvania in 1745 and joined the Moravian Church, where he worked to spread Christianity among Indigenous peoples. Established mission communities, achieving notable success among the Delaware and Mohican tribes. Played a crucial role in the development of the Moravian settlements in Ohio, particularly in the founding of the town of Schoenbrunn. His writings on the culture and experiences of Native Americans contributed to historical understanding of the time.

Continue Reading

Stuart Adamson

Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 11th, 1958 66 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2001 23 years ago — 43 years old

Originated from Scotland, a prominent figure in music, gained recognition as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the rock band Big Country. The band achieved major success in the 1980s with their unique sound characterized by guitar riffs and anthemic melodies. Released the critically acclaimed album 'The Crossing', which included the hit single 'In a Big Country'. Later formed the band Stuart Adamson's Band and continued to create music until his passing.

Continue Reading

George Canning

British Prime Minister and foreign policy leader
Born
April 11th, 1770 254 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1827 197 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent politician and lawyer, served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in 1827. Elected to the House of Commons in 1796, held various cabinet positions, including Foreign Secretary. Instrumental in the development of British foreign policy during the early 19th century. Advocated for the Portuguese Liberal Revolution and supported the independence movements in Latin America. Died in office after a brief tenure as Prime Minister.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 17th

Jack Sharkey

Professional boxer and referee
Born
October 26th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1994 30 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1902, this individual became a prominent heavyweight boxing champion in the 1920s and 1930s. Claiming the World Heavyweight title in 1932, significant bouts included matches against Max Schmeling and Jim Braddock. Transitioning to a career as a referee, the individual oversaw numerous high-profile boxing matches, bringing extensive experience to the role. Retirement from boxing did not diminish involvement in the sport.

Continue Reading

Victor Poor

Engineer, developer of Datapoint 2200
Born
July 12th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 79 years old

An engineer born in 1933, contributed significantly to the development of computing technology. Focused on advancements in hardware and software, played a critical role in creating the Datapoint 2200, which is recognized as one of the first programmable desktop computers. This innovation helped pave the way for the personal computer revolution, influencing future designs and architectures in computing. Served as a key figure in the evolution of early computer systems and supported the growth of the computing industry during the 1970s.

Continue Reading

Madan Lal Dhingra

Indian activist; assassination attempt
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1909 115 years ago — 26 years old

An Indian activist engaged in the struggle for India's independence from British rule. Dhingra studied in London, where he became involved with revolutionary groups advocating for Indian self-rule. He assassinated a British government official in 1909, an act aimed at attracting attention to the independence movement. Following the assassination, Dhingra was arrested and put on trial, where he defended his actions as a means of fighting imperialism. He was executed by hanging, and his actions are remembered as part of the early 20th-century revolutionary movement in India.

Continue Reading

Wolfgang Leonhard

German historian and author
Born
April 16th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 10 years ago — 93 years old

A German historian and author focused on the history of communism and the Eastern Bloc. Born in 1921, early experiences in the USSR influenced later scholarly work. Emigrated to West Germany in 1948, contributing to the understanding of East Germany and communism in Europe. Wrote extensively, with significant titles including 'The War Within the German Communist Party' and 'Child of the Revolution'.

Continue Reading

Pierre Vassiliu

French singer-songwriter and performer
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 10 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in French music, Vassiliu began his career in the 1960s and gained popularity with his poetic lyrics and distinctive voice. His music often blended various genres, including folk and chanson. One of his most recognized songs, 'Jean-Christian,' showcased his unique storytelling ability and resonated with a wide audience. Over the years, he produced numerous albums and contributed to the French music scene with both original compositions and adaptations. His work reflected the cultural shifts in France during the late 20th century.

Continue Reading

John C. Allen

Roller coaster designer of notable rides
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1979 45 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in the amusement industry, contributed significantly to roller coaster design throughout the mid-20th century. Instrumental at Philadelphia's peanut carnival and became lead designer at the Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters. Developed innovative designs that combined thrill and safety. His work influenced many modern roller coasters and helped set a new standard for amusement park attractions.

Continue Reading