William Safire
Journalist and political commentator
William Safire worked as a journalist, author, and political commentator. He served as a speechwriter for President Richard Nixon and later became a prominent columnist for The New York Times. His work often focused on political language and its implications. Safire also authored several books, including works on language, history, and politics. His career spanned several decades, earning him accolades for his insight into political discourse.
Served as a speechwriter for President Nixon
Wrote the 'On Language' column for The New York Times
Authored the book 'The Politician's Dictionary'
Other People Born on December 17th
Penelope Fitzgerald
English author awarded the Booker Prize
Born
December 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2000 26 years ago — 83 years old
An English author and poet, this writer achieved recognition for works that often explore themes of loss and the complexities of human relationships. The literary career spanned several decades, with notable works including 'Offshore', which received the Booker Prize in 1979. Other significant titles include 'The Bookshop' and 'Human Voices', each contributing to a distinguished portfolio that reflects keen observations of life and society. The author's later works continued to earn critical acclaim, showcasing a unique narrative style that resonated with readers and critics alike.
Continue ReadingBrad Davis
Basketball player and coach
Born
December 17th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1991 34 years ago — 35 years old
Played as a point guard in professional basketball, primarily for the Dallas Mavericks from 1980 to 1992. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching and sportscasting. Contributed to the development of young athletes and offered insights on basketball through various media channels.
Continue ReadingSimo Häyhä
Finland's legendary World War II sniper
Born
December 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2002 24 years ago — 96 years old
A Finnish soldier achieved significant notoriety during the Winter War (1939-1940) between Finland and the Soviet Union. Renowned for exceptional marksmanship skills, recorded over 500 confirmed kills as a sniper. Utilized a Finnish M28/30 rifle and took advantage of the winter landscape to conceal movements. Adopted a strategy that involved minimizing exposure and maximizing stealth, earning the nickname 'White Death.' Survived serious injuries and continued to lead a private life after the war until passing away in 2002.
Continue ReadingMaria I of Portugal
Queen of Portugal and Brazil
Born
December 17th, 1734 291 years ago
Died
1816 210 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1734, Maria I ascended to the Portuguese throne in 1777, becoming the first woman to rule the country in her own right. Her reign was marked by political upheaval, including the loss of Brazil, which declared independence in 1822. Maria faced personal challenges, including mental health issues that affected her ability to govern. After 1792, her son took on the duties of regent due to her declining health. Despite these challenges, her influence on Portuguese culture and society during her reign remains notable.
Continue ReadingValery Belousov
Ice hockey player and coach, 'Sochi 1992'
Born
December 17th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2015 11 years ago — 66 years old
A professional ice hockey player and coach, played in the Soviet Union and later in the NHL. Competed for the Soviet national team, participating in multiple international tournaments, including the 1992 Winter Olympics, where the team earned a gold medal. Transitioned to a coaching role after retirement, focusing on developing young players. Coached various teams in the Russian leagues and contributed to the growth of ice hockey in the region.
Continue ReadingMohammad Hidayatullah
Indian Chief Justice and Vice President
Born
December 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1992 33 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the 11th Chief Justice of India from 1968 to 1970, significantly impacting the Indian legal system. Held the position of the sixth Vice President of India from 1979 to 1984, participating in legislative functions and presidential duties. Contributed to legal education and wrote extensively on various legal topics. Actively involved in politics and addressed key judicial reforms during tenure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 27th
Adelina Patti
Opera singer known for Lucía di Lammermoor
Born
February 10th, 1843 183 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1919 106 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Italy in 1843, a highly acclaimed opera singer achieved significant success in the 19th century. She debuted at the age of 16 in the opera 'Lucía di Lammermoor,' which became a hallmark of her career. Patti toured extensively across Europe and the United States, earning acclaim for her remarkable vocal technique and expressive performances. Throughout her career, she performed in leading roles at prestigious venues, including La Scala and the Metropolitan Opera. With a career spanning over four decades, her influence transcended her performances, and she also contributed to the world of opera through her philanthropic efforts.
Continue ReadingBabe Didrikson Zaharias
Golfer and Olympic basketball player
Born
June 26th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1956 69 years ago — 45 years old
A multifaceted athlete, played basketball and achieved significant success in golf. In basketball, contributed to the U.S. women's team that secured a gold medal at the 1933 AAU Championships. Transitioned to golf, winning 10 major championships and earning the title of Women's Amateur Champion in 1946. Actively promoted women's sports and inspired future generations of female athletes.
Continue ReadingHugh Hefner
Publisher and founder of Playboy
Born
April 9th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2017 8 years ago — 91 years old
Established Playboy Enterprises in 1953, which revolutionized men's magazines and popular culture. Hefner launched the iconic Playboy magazine featuring nude photography and articles on various topics, including interviews with influential figures. The magazine became a symbol of the sexual revolution in the 1960s and 1970s. Hefner also expanded the brand into television and lifestyle, influencing media and entertainment.
Continue ReadingAimee Semple McPherson
Evangelist, founder of Foursquare Gospel
Born
1890 136 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1944 81 years ago — 54 years old
An evangelist who founded the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel, played a significant role in the early 20th-century Pentecostal movement. Established a media presence through radio broadcasts and theatrical performances, which helped to spread religious messages across the United States and Canada. Led large revival meetings and became a prominent religious figure during her time, focusing on faith healing and social issues. Involved in various charitable efforts and established a church that emphasized healing and a personal relationship with God.
Continue ReadingFelix Yusupov
Russian noble and assassin of Rasputin
Born
1887 139 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1967 58 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent Russian aristocrat and member of the Yusupov family. Married to Princess Irina Alexandrovna of Russia. Gained notoriety for the assassination of Grigori Rasputin in December 1916, a controversial figure in the last years of the Russian Empire. Post-revolution, fled to Europe, where he chronicled the events leading to the fall of the Russian monarchy in his memoirs. Spent much of his later life in France, engaging with the expatriate community and maintaining ties to Russian royalist movements. Died in 1967 in Paris.
Continue ReadingPugu Huai'en
Tang dynasty general
Died
September 27th, 765 1260 years ago — None years old
Served as a general during the Tang dynasty, playing a critical role in military campaigns. Contributed to the expansion of territory and the consolidation of power under the Tang rulers. Participated in major battles, leading troops in significant encounters that shaped the political landscape of the period. Held command in the defense against rebellions and external threats, demonstrating strategic prowess in various military operations.
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