Born on This Day: September 17

Prussian-American officer whose training system professionalized the Continental Army during the American Revolution.

French philosopher and mathematician whose work on education, voting, and human progress influenced democratic thought.

Russian mathematician whose work and teaching advanced higher mathematics and women’s participation in science.

American poet and physician whose direct language and local focus reshaped modern poetry.

American singer and songwriter whose emotionally direct songs became foundations of country music.

American actor whose stage and screen performances influenced modern dramatic acting.

American novelist whose fiction and countercultural leadership influenced postwar literature and social change.

Australian filmmaker whose visually exuberant style has influenced contemporary musical and romantic cinema.