William Jervois
Governor of South Australia
Born in England, served as an engineer and politician. Held the position of the 10th Governor of South Australia from 1877 to 1883. Prior to governance, contributed to military engineering in various locations, including significant work on fortifications. Oversaw the development of infrastructure and governance frameworks during tenure in South Australia.
Served as 10th Governor of South Australia
Contributed to military fortifications
Other People Born on September 10th
Roger Maris
Baseball player, 1961 home run champion
Born
September 10th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1985 40 years ago — 51 years old
A Major League Baseball player, achieved significant acclaim during a career primarily with the New York Yankees. In 1961, set a then single-season home run record by hitting 61 home runs, surpassing the previous record held by Babe Ruth. Maris won the American League MVP award in the same year. Also played for the Kansas City Royals late in his career. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of young players in the sport.
Continue ReadingJohn Soane
Architect who designed the Bank of England
Born
September 10th, 1753 272 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1837 188 years ago — 83 years old
An English architect, significant contributions were made to the neoclassical architectural style. Established a prominent practice in London, with the design of the Bank of England serving as a landmark project. Soane's innovative approach included the use of light and space, with an emphasis on interior design. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in architectural education, helping to mentor future architects and promoting the importance of design in society. Received recognition for his unique contributions through various awards and honors.
Continue ReadingHans Niels Andersen
Danish businessman, founder of EAC
Born
September 10th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1937 87 years ago — 85 years old
Founded the East Asiatic Company, which played a significant role in trade and commerce between Europe and Asia. The company specialized in importing products from Asia, including tea, rubber, and tin. It established a strong presence in the Asian market and contributed to the development of various industries within Denmark. Under leadership, the company expanded operations and became a key player in the region during the early 20th century. Andersen's business strategies and visionary approach helped to navigate the complexities of international trade during a time of economic change.
Continue ReadingRobert Taschereau
Chief Justice of Canada
Born
September 10th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1970 55 years ago — 73 years old
Served as a prominent lawyer and judge in Canada, contributing to the legal landscape of the nation. Appointed as the 11th Chief Justice of Canada, a position held from 1956 to 1970. Had a distinguished career in law, shaping important legal precedents during tenure. Worked in various capacities within the legal system, including the Supreme Court of Canada.
Continue ReadingCyril Connolly
English author and literary critic
Born
September 10th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1974 51 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1903, this author and critic became a prominent figure in 20th-century literature. Connolly founded the influential literary magazine Horizon, which published works from numerous notable writers and critics. His book, 'Enemies of Promise', offered a critical examination of the literary landscape, exploring the conflict between artistic ambitions and the realities of life. He also wrote various essays and critiques that shaped literary discourse during his time. Connolly's reflections on literature and society have been studied for their insights into the challenges faced by writers.
Continue ReadingIvar Böhling
Wrestler and Olympic medalist
Born
September 10th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1929 96 years ago — 40 years old
Competed in wrestling and achieved notable success in the early 20th century. Won a bronze medal in the 1912 Stockholm Olympics. Participated in various championships and established a reputation in the sport of Greco-Roman wrestling. Contributed to Finnish wrestling legacy through competitive performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Conrad Aiken
American poet and novelist
Born
August 5th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1973 52 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1889, a prominent American poet, novelist, and critic, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Aiken's literary career spanned multiple genres, with poetry as the primary focus. A published author from a young age, received a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1930 for the collection 'Selected Poems.' Aiken explored themes of consciousness and emotion in works such as the novel 'Apprenticeship' and the short story collection 'Great Circle.' His influence extends to various literary movements, and he was associated with the objectivist movement. In his writing, Aiken often employed innovative techniques, blending elements of modernism and romanticism.
Continue ReadingIra Gershwin
American songwriter with classic lyrics
Born
December 6th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1983 42 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American songwriter, contributed lyrics to many celebrated songs and musicals. Collaborated extensively with composer George Gershwin, creating lasting works in American music. Wrote lyrics for iconic songs such as 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm', and 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. Lyricist for the Broadway musicals 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Lady, Be Good!', which showcased the Gershwin brothers' talents. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, further solidifying a legacy in American songwriting.
Continue ReadingFranklin Delano Roosevelt Jr.
American lawyer and politician
Born
August 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a lawyer and politician in the United States. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from New York in 1955, serving until 1959. During tenure, focused on issues related to civil rights, education, and labor. Worked in various legal capacities, including as an attorney for the New York City Transit Authority. Engaged in numerous philanthropic efforts and was active in several civic organizations throughout his life.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Zia-ul-Haq
Pakistani general and politician
Born
August 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the sixth President of Pakistan from 1978 until his death in 1988. Initially took power through a military coup in 1977, establishing martial law and assuming the position of Chief Martial Law Administrator. Implemented policies that facilitated the Islamization of Pakistan's legal and societal structures. Oversaw significant political and economic changes, and his tenure was marked by efforts to increase the role of Islamic law in governance. Died in an airplane crash in 1988, which was highly controversial and led to various conspiracy theories.
Continue ReadingArthur Fox
English-American fencer and Olympian
Born
September 9th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1958 67 years ago — 79 years old
Competed in fencing during the early 20th century. Achieved significant recognition in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London. Contributed to the fencing community through coaching and advocacy for the sport. His techniques and methodologies influenced future generations of fencers, both in America and abroad.
Continue ReadingHans Gude
Norwegian-German painter and academic
Born
March 13th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1903 122 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1825, a prominent painter specialized in landscapes, primarily influenced by the Romantic movement. Studied at the Düsseldorf Academy, where the works of Caspar David Friedrich inspired artistic direction. Became an academic, teaching at the Academy of Fine Arts in Berlin. His work primarily captured the beauty of Norwegian scenery, showcasing lakes, mountains, and dramatic skies. Contributed significantly to the Nordic landscape genre, developing a distinct style that emphasized the interplay of light and natural elements. Many of the paintings reflect an intimate connection with nature, often depicting winter scenes and fjords.
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