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
Fernando González Pacheco
Colombian journalist and actor
Born
September 13th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2014 12 years ago — 81 years old
Worked as a journalist and contributed to the media landscape in Colombia. Gained recognition for work on the television show 'Los Pecados de Inés de Hinojosa'. Also appeared in productions like 'La mujer del presidente'. His journalism was distinguished by a focus on current events and issues affecting Colombian society, earning respect in the field.
Continue ReadingJulian Tuwim
Polish poet and playwright, wrote 'The Locomotive'
Born
September 13th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1953 72 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1894, a significant figure in Polish literature, especially noted for works in poetry, drama, and children's literature. Tuwim was part of the Skamander group of poets, which aimed to revitalize Polish poetry. His poetry often combined humor with serious themes, making it accessible yet profound. Notably, 'The Locomotive' became a classic in Polish children's literature. Active in the interwar period and later during World War II, Tuwim contributed to the Polish cultural scene, writing plays and poetry that resonated with the challenges of his time. Following the war, he continued to write and support the arts until his death in 1953.
Continue ReadingMaria Furtwängler
Physician and actress in German cinema
Born
September 13th, 1966 59 years ago
Graduated in medicine and worked as a physician before pursuing an acting career. Gained prominence through roles in German television, particularly in the series 'Tatort'. Also appeared in films, showcasing a range of performances. Balances medical practice with acting commitments.
Continue ReadingSir William Brereton
English commander and politician
Born
September 13th, 1604 421 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1661 365 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 ReadingRickie Weeks
American baseball player and All-Star infielder
Born
September 13th, 1982 43 years ago
A professional baseball player, played as a second baseman. Played the majority of career with the Milwaukee Brewers. Selected as an All-Star in 2011 and contributed significantly to the team. Helped the Brewers reach the playoffs in 2011, where the team advanced to the National League Championship Series.
Continue ReadingScott Brady
American actor in Western films
Born
September 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1985 41 years ago — 60 years old
An American actor prominent in the mid-20th century, recognized for roles in Westerns and television series. Collaborated with several notable filmmakers and featured in significant productions. Gained popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, appearing in movies such as 'The Last Train from Gun Hill' and 'Apache Territory.' Transitioned to television and starred in shows like 'The High Chaparral' and 'Maverick.' Continued to work in film and television throughout his career until his passing in 1985.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Lionel Pickens
American rapper with hit albums
Born
1983 43 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2015 11 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 ReadingCass Gilbert
Architect, designed Supreme Court Building
Born
November 24th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1934 92 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.
Continue ReadingJohn Deere
Blacksmith and founder of Deere & Company
Born
February 7th, 1804 222 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1886 140 years ago — 82 years old
A blacksmith and businessman established a brand recognized for agricultural machinery. Pioneered the creation of a plow that efficiently tilled the tough Midwestern soil, leading to significant advancements in farming techniques. Founded Deere & Company in 1837, which became one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. The business model emphasized high-quality products and customer service, contributing to the growth of modern agriculture.
Continue ReadingMario Benedetti
Uruguayan author and poet
Born
September 14th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2009 17 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in Latin American literature, this individual authored numerous novels, plays, and poems. Works include 'La Tregua', which explores themes of love and loss, and 'El Hombre que Plantaba Árboles', a celebrated short story. Contributions to journalism included commentaries on social and political issues, reflecting a deep engagement with Uruguayan society. The literature often examined the human condition and the struggles of everyday life, resonating widely with readers. Active in the political landscape, this individual faced exile during periods of political unrest in Uruguay.
Continue ReadingHarmon Killebrew
Baseball player, 1969 AL MVP
Born
June 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2011 15 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 217 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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