Walter Hallstein
German politician and EU Commission leader
Served as the first President of the European Commission from 1958 to 1967. Played a significant role in the establishment of the European Economic Community, promoting European integration. Hallstein authored several works on European unity and international law and was a key figure in advancing policies that shaped the early stages of the European Union. His diplomatic career also included serving as Germany's Ambassador to France from 1967 to 1972.
Served as the first President of the European Commission
Contributed to the formation of the European Economic Community
Other People Born on November 17th
Petra Burka
Figure Skater and Coach, 1965 World Champion
Born
November 17th, 1946 79 years ago
Born in the Netherlands and later emigrating to Canada, a prominent figure skater and coach. Achieved significant success in the 1960s, winning the 1965 World Championship. Competed at the 1964 Winter Olympics, where received a bronze medal. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from competition and contributed to the development of the sport in Canada.
Continue ReadingKatarzyna Kawa
Polish tennis player, ITF tour champion
Born
November 17th, 1992 33 years ago
Competed on the ITF Women's Circuit. Achieved significant success in professional tennis. Secured multiple singles titles, contributing to a prominent ranking in women's tennis. Represented Poland in various international competitions.
Continue ReadingRose Ayling-Ellis
British actress, EastEnders star
Born
November 17th, 1994 31 years ago
An actress primarily recognized for a leading role in the BBC One soap opera 'EastEnders', which features a story centered around the lives of families in East London. This individual has also contributed to various television productions and stage performances, demonstrating a range of acting abilities. In 2021, achieved recognition by winning the 19th series of the BBC dance show 'Strictly Come Dancing', showcasing talent in competitive dance despite challenges faced.
Continue ReadingRaquel Castro
American actress and singer from "The Voice"
Born
November 17th, 1994 31 years ago
An actress and singer, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry made early appearances in projects such as the film 'When a Stranger Calls' and gained further recognition as a contestant on the reality singing competition 'The Voice' in its first season. Participated in various musical endeavors, showcasing vocal talent and versatility across genres. Engaged in acting projects across television and film, contributing to her reputation as a multi-talented entertainer.
Continue ReadingRyan Griffin
American football player, tight end
Born
November 17th, 1989 36 years ago
Played college football at the University of Connecticut before entering the NFL. Drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2013. Played as a tight end for the Saints and later for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, contributing to the team’s offensive strategies during his tenure.
Continue ReadingDanielle Kettlewell
Synchronised swimmer competing internationally
Born
November 17th, 1992 33 years ago
A competitive synchronised swimmer from Australia, significant accomplishments included representing Australia at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Competed in various world championships, showcasing skills in duet and team events. Trained extensively to refine routines and contribute to the overall performance of the national team, achieving a number of podium finishes in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 29th
Eric Williams
Trinidadian historian and 1st Prime Minister
Born
September 25th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1981 44 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent historian and politician, served as the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago from 1962 until 1981. Played a crucial role in the independence movement and helped shape the nation’s post-colonial framework. Authored several works on Caribbean history, including 'Capitalism and Slavery', which examined the economic implications of slavery and colonialism in the Caribbean. His leadership was marked by efforts to nationalize various industries and enhance education.
Continue ReadingAlexander Obolensky
Rugby player and WWII pilot
Born
February 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1940 85 years ago — 24 years old
Played rugby for England and made a significant contribution during World War II as a pilot. Achieved recognition for his performance in rugby union matches, notably in the 1939 match against Wales, where he scored two tries. His athletic career was cut short by the war, during which he served in the Royal Air Force and lost his life during a mission in 1943.
Continue ReadingJanet Watson
British geologist specializing in geology
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1985 40 years ago — 62 years old
A British geologist specialized in geology, contributing significantly to understanding the geological structure and history of the British Isles. Played an influential role in the Geological Society of London, promoting geological education and research. Served as an editor for the journal 'Geology' and wrote various papers on geological mapping and stratigraphy. Focused on the study of the Wealden formations and the Jurassic period.
Continue ReadingJennifer Wilson
Field Hockey Player, International Competitor
Born
March 27th, 1979 46 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2022 3 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1979, Wilson played as a prominent field hockey player representing both Zimbabwe and South Africa. Competing at the highest levels, she participated in various international tournaments, contributing to her teams' success. Wilson was part of the South African national team that competed in the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, showcasing her skills on the world stage. Throughout her career, she earned recognition for her leadership on the field and strategic gameplay, making significant contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingCarlo Urbani
Italian physician and microbiologist
Born
October 19th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2003 22 years ago — 46 years old
A physician and microbiologist recognized for significant contributions to the understanding of infectious diseases. Worked for the World Health Organization and played a critical role during the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2003. Identified and diagnosed the disease in Vietnam, alerting global health authorities. His efforts in surveillance and containment were crucial at a time when the illness was spreading rapidly. Urbani's work emphasized the need for rapid response to emerging infectious diseases and highlighted the importance of global collaboration in public health.
Continue ReadingKrzysztof Penderecki
Composer known for 'The Passion According to St. Luke'
Born
November 23rd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2020 5 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent Polish composer and conductor, created significant works that span various styles, including avant-garde, neo-Romanticism, and contemporary classical music. 'Threnody to the Victims of Hiroshima', composed in 1960, showcased innovative string techniques and gained international acclaim. 'The Passion According to St. Luke', composed in 1965, became one of the central works in liturgical music. Served as a professor at various institutions and contributed to music education throughout his career.
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