Walther von Reichenau
German Field Marshal during WWII
Served as a field marshal in the German Army during World War II. Commanded the 6th Army and participated in significant operations, including the Battle of Stalingrad. Noted for strategic decisions and operational leadership in the Eastern Front campaigns. Held a prominent position within the Nazi military hierarchy until death in 1942.
Commanded the 6th Army during WWII
Participated in the Battle of Stalingrad
Other People Born on October 8th
John Henninger Reagan
Confederate Secretary of the Treasury
Born
October 8th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1905 120 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the third Secretary of the Treasury for the Confederate States of America from 1861 to 1865. Prior to this role, engaged in surveying and held positions as a judge. Participated in Texas politics, representing the state in the United States House of Representatives before the Civil War. After the war, returned to Texas and continued involvement in public service.
Continue ReadingLynne Stewart
Attorney and activist for social justice
Born
October 8th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2017 8 years ago — 77 years old
An American attorney focused on civil rights and social justice. Stewart defended clients facing controversial charges, including those associated with terrorism. Prominently represented Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman, who was convicted for his role in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Stewart actively participated in various social movements and advocated for marginalized groups. In 2005, she was convicted of conspiracy and providing material support to a terrorist organization, leading to a significant legal battle over her sentencing. Stewart's case sparked discussions about the limits of legal representation and government overreach.
Continue ReadingJanice E. Voss
Engineer and NASA astronaut
Born
October 8th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 55 years old
An engineer and astronaut, contributed to multiple Space Shuttle missions. Earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University and a Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering from MIT. Participated in five spaceflights, including missions STS-57, STS-63, and STS-83. Contributed to scientific research aboard the Space Shuttle, focusing on materials science and other experiments. Worked as a project manager at NASA, facilitating advanced aerospace technology development.
Continue ReadingRobert R. Gilruth
Spacecraft engineer and NASA director
Born
October 8th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 87 years old
An influential engineer and director at NASA, significant contributions occurred within the space program, particularly during the Mercury and Gemini missions. Played a crucial role in the Apollo lunar program, overseeing the development of critical spacecraft technology. Led the Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston, Texas, driving advancements in human spaceflight. Authored numerous technical papers and reports that established foundational principles for crewed space exploration.
Continue ReadingPaul Schell
American politician, 50th Mayor of Seattle
Born
October 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 50th Mayor of Seattle from 1998 to 2002. Focused on urban development and social issues during tenure. Implemented initiatives to improve public transportation and enhance the city's parks and neighborhoods. Advocated for environmental sustainability and community engagement.
Continue ReadingAndrea Anastasi
Volleyball player and coach, Italy
Born
October 8th, 1960 65 years ago
Played professionally as a volleyball player and later transitioned into coaching. Achieved significant success as both a player and a coach throughout a lengthy career. Coached the Italian national team, leading them to multiple championships, including the 1994 Volleyball World Championship. Played for various clubs in Italy and contributed to the development of the sport at both national and international levels.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 17th
Jyoti Basu
Indian politician and Chief Minister
Born
July 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 9th Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1977 to 2000. Played a significant role in the Indian political landscape, particularly as a leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Led a government that was one of the longest-serving democratically elected communist governments in the world. Instrumental in promoting social welfare programs and agrarian reforms in the state, impacting the lives of many citizens. Resigned from the role in 2000 and became an influential figure in Indian politics until his death in 2010.
Continue ReadingQi Jiguang
Chinese general and military strategist
Born
November 12th, 1528 497 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1588 437 years ago — 59 years old
Served as a general during the Ming dynasty, focusing on the defense of the southeastern coastal regions of China against Japanese pirates. Developed military tactics and organized local militias effectively. Authored significant military texts, including the 'Treatise on Military Affairs' and 'Essentials of Military Affairs', which are still studied for their insights into strategy and tactics.
Continue ReadingCamilo José Cela
Spanish author, Nobel Prize winner
Born
May 11th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old
An influential Spanish author and politician, this individual contributed significantly to literature during the 20th century. Esteemed for a unique style, which blended realism and experimentation, the literary work often addressed themes of human existence and societal challenges. Most recognized for the novel 'The Family of Pascual Duarte', which laid the groundwork for contemporary Spanish literature. Apart from literary endeavors, also undertook a role in politics, serving as a senator in the Spanish government. The recognition culminated in receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1989 for an oeuvre that encompassed novels, essays, and poetry. This person's legacy continues to influence Spanish literature and culture.
Continue ReadingEdward Shepherd Creasy
Historian and jurist, author of 'Fifteen Decisive Battles'
Born
September 12th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1878 147 years ago — 65 years old
Creasy was an English historian and jurist. Education included studying at the University of Oxford. He served as a member of the bar and held a position as a judge in the British legal system. Creasy’s written works contributed to historical scholarship, particularly in the analysis of military history. The book 'Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World', published in 1851, gained significant attention for its examination of key battles and their impacts on history. This work remains a reference for military historians and students alike. Later in life, he became involved in politics and served as a member of the House of Commons. Creasy's contributions to history and law are recognized through his published works and judicial roles.
Continue ReadingBilly Stewart
Rhythm and blues singer and pianist, 'Summertime'
Born
March 24th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1970 55 years ago — 32 years old
An American rhythm and blues singer and pianist, achieved popularity in the 1960s with a distinctive voice and innovative musical style. Rose to fame with the hit song 'Summertime' which showcased vocal improvisation and a unique arrangement. Released several successful singles and albums during a brief but notable career. Stewart's work contributed to the evolution of soul music, leaving a lasting influence on future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingTomaso Albinoni
Italian composer of Baroque music
Born
June 8th, 1671 354 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1751 274 years ago — 79 years old
A Baroque composer and violinist from Italy, contributed significantly to the development of instrumental music during the early 18th century. Best known for the 'Adagio in G minor', a piece that gained popularity long after his death. Albinoni's works include a substantial number of operas, concertos, and sonatas, influencing the musical landscape of his time. His compositions often featured intricate melodies and clear structures, typical of the Baroque style. Although his popularity waned in the years following his death, a resurgence of interest in his music during the 20th century highlighted his lasting influence on classical music.
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