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
Bill Monroe
Bluegrass musician and mandolin player
Born
September 13th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent musician and songwriter, this individual significantly influenced the genre of bluegrass music. Originating from Kentucky, contributions included the establishment of the Blue Grass Boys band in the 1940s, which showcased a blend of traditional Appalachian music with jazz and blues elements. This individual is credited with popularizing the mandolin as a lead instrument in country music and defining the sound that characterizes bluegrass today. Numerous recordings and performances solidified this individual's legacy, making a lasting impact on American music culture.
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 ReadingJoe Don Rooney
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 13th, 1975 50 years ago
Rooney is a singer-songwriter and guitarist, primarily recognized as a member of the country music band Rascal Flatts. The group formed in 1999 and achieved significant commercial success, releasing numerous hit albums and singles. The band has frequently topped the country music charts and has won multiple awards, including several Academy of Country Music Awards.
Continue ReadingSir William Brereton
English commander and politician
Born
September 13th, 1604 421 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1661 364 years ago — 56 years old
Served as a military commander during the English Civil War. Brereton aligned with the Parliamentarians and played a significant role in the conflict. Participated in key battles, including the Siege of Lichfield. Held the position of a Member of Parliament for various constituencies and was created a Baronet in 1641. Involved in the governance of Chester and worked in defense against Royalist forces throughout the war. Post-war, continued to engage in local politics until his death.
Continue ReadingJohn Sedgwick
American General and Educator
Born
September 13th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1864 161 years ago — 50 years old
Served as a Union general during the American Civil War. Achieved the rank of major general and led troops in several major battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House. Also contributed to military education and training, helping to shape future generations of officers. Died in battle at the Battle of Spotsylvania.
Continue ReadingIdan Tal
Israeli Footballer and International Player
Born
September 13th, 1975 50 years ago
Played as a midfielder and had a notable career in football. Started professional career with Maccabi Haifa, contributing to multiple league titles. Later played for several clubs including Hapoel Tel Aviv and Maccabi Netanya. Represented the Israeli national team in various international competitions, earning numerous caps and participating in World Cup qualifying matches.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Harmon Killebrew
Baseball player, 1969 AL MVP
Born
June 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 74 years old
A professional baseball player, Killebrew spent the majority of his career with the Minnesota Twins. Renowned as a power hitter, he contributed significantly to the team’s success during the 1960s and early 1970s. One of the defining moments of his career came in 1969, when he won the American League Most Valuable Player award, highlighting his exceptional performance throughout the season. Killebrew's career encompassed numerous All-Star selections and he was pivotal in leading the Twins to the World Series in 1965, where the team faced the Los Angeles Dodgers. His prolific home run hitting ability established him as one of the premier sluggers of his era, making a lasting impression in Major League Baseball.
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.
Continue ReadingLionel Pickens
American rapper with hit albums
Born
1983 42 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 ReadingHerman Wouk
American novelist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
May 27th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2019 6 years ago — 103 years old
A prominent American novelist, one of the most recognized works includes 'The Caine Mutiny,' which depicts a military court trial during World War II. Another significant novel, 'War and Remembrance,' explores the experiences of a Jewish family during the Holocaust. Wouk's writing often addresses themes of faith, morality, and the human condition, reflecting his Jewish background and experiences. He received widespread acclaim and several awards throughout his career, including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1952 for 'The Caine Mutiny.' His literary works have been adapted into successful films and television series, further extending their reach and influence.
Continue ReadingLiu Jianfeng
Chinese warlord during the Five Dynasties
Died
May 17th, 896 1129 years ago — None years old
During the Five Dynasties period, one warlord played a significant role in regional politics and military conflicts. This figure seized power and ruled with authority over the region, establishing a foothold amid the fragmentation of the Tang Dynasty's influence. The reign extended through tactical warfare and alliances with other military leaders. Despite the chaotic political environment, the warlord maintained control over territories and engaged in numerous battles, solidifying a legacy in Chinese history through military prowess and governance.
Continue ReadingCass Gilbert
Architect, designed Supreme Court Building
Born
November 24th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1934 91 years ago — 74 years old
An American architect, contributed significantly to the architectural landscape of the early 20th century. Gained prominence for designing the Woolworth Building in New York City, which was the tallest building in the world at its completion in 1913. Closely associated with the design of the United States Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C., completed in 1935. His works are marked by classical styles that blend with modern elements, underscoring his commitment to craftsmanship and detail.
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