William Birdwood
Field Marshal of the British Army
Served as a senior officer in the British Army with significant roles during World War I. Commanded the ANZAC forces during the Gallipoli Campaign, demonstrating strategic military leadership. Led British troops at the Battle of the Somme and commanded the Australian Imperial Force during the war's later stages. His tactics and leadership styles influenced military operations during the conflict.
Commanded ANZAC forces at Gallipoli
Led British troops at the Battle of the Somme
Oversaw the Australian Imperial Force
Other People Born on September 13th
Amelie Beese
Pioneer pilot and sculptor
Born
September 13th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1925 100 years ago — 39 years old
Became one of the first female pilots in Germany, earning a pilot's license in 1911. Played a significant role in the early aviation movement, demonstrating flying skills at various events. As a sculptor, created works that combined her interest in aviation with artistic expression, influencing subsequent artists. Contributed to the visibility of women in aviation during a time when the profession was dominated by men.
Continue ReadingLeRoy Samse
American pole vaulter, Olympic medalist
Born
September 13th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1956 69 years ago — 72 years old
Competed in pole vaulting, achieving notable success in the early 20th century. Won a bronze medal at the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London. Set several records during competition and contributed to the popularization of the sport in the United States. Participated in various athletic events throughout his career, showcasing talent and skill in track and field.
Continue ReadingNiall Horan
Irish singer from One Direction
Born
September 13th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in September 1993, this artist rose to fame as a member of the boy band One Direction, formed on the reality show The X Factor UK in 2010. The group achieved global success with hit albums and singles, including 'What Makes You Beautiful' and 'Story of My Life.' After the band's hiatus in 2016, he launched a solo career, releasing his debut album 'Flicker' in 2017, which included the popular single 'This Town.' Horan incorporates a blend of pop with acoustic elements in his music, earning recognition for his songwriting and vocal abilities. He has also been involved in various charitable initiatives.
Continue ReadingLili Reinhart
American actress in Riverdale
Born
September 13th, 1996 29 years ago
An actress gained recognition for the role of Betty Cooper in the television series Riverdale, which premiered in 2017. Besides acting, involved in writing and has contributed to discussions about mental health awareness. The career began with appearances in various films and television shows before achieving prominence in Riverdale, leading to other opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingAdrian Kempe
Ice Hockey Player; Stanley Cup Champion
Born
September 13th, 1996 29 years ago
This player competes in ice hockey and has played for the Los Angeles Kings in the NHL since the 2016-2017 season. In 2022, contributed to the team's playoff success, helping secure the Stanley Cup Championship. Additionally, represented Sweden in international competitions, earning a silver medal at the 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship.
Continue ReadingAnna Karolína Schmiedlová
Tennis player with WTA tour titles
Born
September 13th, 1994 31 years ago
A prominent Slovak tennis player who achieved significant success in women's singles and doubles on the WTA tour. Made her breakthrough by winning her first WTA title at the 2015 Malaysian Open, establishing herself within the top ranks of professional tennis. Competed in major tournaments including the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. Represented Slovakia in international competitions, contributing to the national team's efforts in the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Bud Anderson
American World War II flying ace
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 102 years old
A World War II fighter pilot, this individual served in the 363rd Fighter Squadron and became a prominent flying ace during the war. Completing over 116 missions, achieved the rank of Colonel. Received numerous decorations for bravery and skill in aerial combat, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Silver Star. Continued a career in aviation after the war, serving as a test pilot and later as a leader in the aerospace industry.
Continue ReadingKen Venturi
Golf champion and sportscaster
Born
May 15th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
Accomplished golfer and sportscaster achieved significant recognition in the golfing world. Won the 1964 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club after overcoming a severe personal challenge. Transitioned to a long career in broadcasting with CBS Sports, where provided insightful commentary and analysis of golf tournaments. Contributed to the sport's popularity through a unique ability to connect with audiences.
Continue ReadingToe Blake
Ice hockey player and coach, Montreal Canadiens
Born
August 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1995 30 years ago — 82 years old
Played professional ice hockey and later became a successful coach in the National Hockey League (NHL). As a player, won three Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens. Transitioned to coaching, leading the Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships from the bench. Recognized for contributions to the sport and significant wins during a prolific coaching career.
Continue ReadingTodor Veselinović
Serbian football player and manager
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2017 8 years ago — 87 years old
Played as a forward and gained prominence in the 1950s, representing the Yugoslav national team. Had stints with Red Star Belgrade, winning multiple domestic titles. Transitioned into management following retirement, taking charge of various clubs including Red Star Belgrade and leading them to further successes. Contributed to football's development in Serbia through coaching and mentorship.
Continue ReadingLionel Pickens
American rapper with hit albums
Born
1983 43 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 32 years old
A rapper, recognized for contributions to the hip-hop genre. Gained popularity in the 2000s, particularly for work as a member of the rap group Three 6 Mafia. Released several solo projects and collaborated with various artists, solidifying a presence in the music industry. Won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for the track 'It's Hard out Here for a Pimp' featured in the film 'Hustle & Flow'.
Continue ReadingLeopold Auenbrugger
Austrian physician and inventor of percussion
Born
November 19th, 1722 303 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1809 216 years ago — 86 years old
A physician developed the technique of percussion for diagnosing diseases. This innovation transformed clinical practices. Initial experiments involved using his own chest as a model to demonstrate the value of tapping and feeling the chest wall to gather diagnostic information. The technique was outlined in a treatise published in 1761, which laid the groundwork for modern physical examination methods. The work emphasized the importance of systematic observation in medicine and was influential in the fields of internal medicine and diagnostics.
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