13th Dalai Lama
Tibetan spiritual leader and reformer
The 13th Dalai Lama served as the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and the political leader of Tibet from 1895 until 1933. In 1904, faced with British military intervention, he fled to India, returning to Tibet in 1909. His reign was marked by significant reforms in Tibetan society, including modernization efforts and the establishment of a centralized administration. Advocated for Tibetan autonomy amidst growing tensions with China and sought international support for Tibetan independence. He also emphasized education and health reforms.
Fled to India during the British invasion in 1904
Implemented social and political reforms in Tibet
Promoted Tibetan independence and autonomy
Played a key role in the introduction of modern education
Other People Born on February 12th
Josh Harrellson
American professional basketball player
Born
February 12th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional basketball player played in the NBA and various international leagues. Notable for contributing to teams like the New York Knicks and the Miami Heat. Achieved a successful college career at the University of Kentucky, leading the team to the Final Four in 2011. Played overseas in Japan, significantly impacting the teams he joined with his scoring and rebounding abilities.
Continue ReadingDaniello Bartoli
Italian Jesuit priest and historian
Born
February 12th, 1608 417 years ago
Died
1685 341 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1608, this Jesuit priest operated as a historian and theologian within the Society of Jesus. Engaged in extensive missionary work and education, wrote several important theological texts. Authored 'La vita di Gesù Cristo', which discussed the life of Jesus and had considerable influence within Jesuit circles. Contributed to Jesuit scholarship through writings on various subjects, including history and morality.
Continue ReadingPeter Vanderkaay
American Olympic swimmer and medalist
Born
February 12th, 1984 41 years ago
A competitive swimmer specializing in freestyle events, achieved significant success on both national and international stages. Represented the United States in the Olympics, contributing to team relay events and winning multiple medals. Competed in the 2004 Athens and the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, showcasing talent and determination. Excelled in collegiate swimming at the University of Michigan, leading the team to NCAA championships.
Continue ReadingBrad Keselowski
Race Car Driver, 2012 NASCAR Champion
Born
February 12th, 1984 41 years ago
A notable race car driver, achieved significant success in NASCAR. Started racing in the NASCAR series in 2008, quickly making a name in the sport. Captured the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship in 2012, becoming the first driver to win under the new playoff format. Established a multi-car racing team, contributing to the sport beyond driving. Demonstrated consistency in performance, earning numerous victories throughout the career.
Continue ReadingNicolás Otamendi
Argentine footballer and defender
Born
February 12th, 1988 37 years ago
This Argentine footballer primarily played as a central defender. He began his professional career with Vélez Sarsfield, moving to Europe to play for clubs such as Porto and Valencia. Otamendi gained recognition for his performances at Manchester City, where he won multiple titles and contributed to the team's success in domestic and international competitions. Additionally, he represented Argentina in various international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the Copa América, showcasing his skills on a global stage.
Continue ReadingKonstantin Pushkaryov
Kazakhstani ice hockey player
Born
February 12th, 1985 40 years ago
A professional ice hockey player targeted a successful career primarily in Kazakhstan and Russia. Played for teams including Barys Astana in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Participated in international competitions representing Kazakhstan, contributing to the national team's efforts in various championships.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
William Shiels
Politician and 16th Premier of Victoria
Born
December 3rd, 1848 177 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1904 121 years ago — 56 years old
Born in Ireland and emigrated to Australia, Shiels became a prominent politician in Victoria. He served as the 16th Premier of Victoria from 1892 to 1893. His time in office was marked by efforts to improve social services and infrastructure in the region. Throughout a long political career, Shiels held various positions in the Victorian government, contributing to legislative developments in the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingChris Henry
American football wide receiver
Born
May 17th, 1983 42 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 26 years old
Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the Cincinnati Bengals. Drafted in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft, made significant contributions during his time with the team. Best seasons included 2006 and 2009, where showcased talent in receptions and touchdown receptions. Known for his speed and catching ability, developed a reputation for being a deep threat in the Bengals' offense. Tragically passed away in 2009, leaving behind a legacy of athleticism on the field.
Continue ReadingOtto Graham
American football player and coach
Born
December 6th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2003 22 years ago — 82 years old
An American football player and coach excelled as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the Cleveland Browns from 1946 to 1955, leading the team to ten championship games and winning seven titles. After retirement, transitioned to coaching, serving as head coach for the Browns and achieving notable success. Graham's play was characterized by strong leadership and strategic understanding of the game.
Continue ReadingHarold Holt
Australian Prime Minister during 1966-67
Born
August 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1967 58 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the 17th Prime Minister of Australia from 1966 until disappearance in 1967. Before becoming Prime Minister, held various ministerial positions including Minister for Labour and National Service and Minister for Immigration. Expanded the country's involvement in the Vietnam War and introduced significant reforms in education and immigration policy. Holt's tenure is notably marked by his push for a new Liberal Party agenda and closer ties with the United States during the Cold War.
Continue ReadingSturm
Abbot of Fulda
Died
December 17th, 779 1246 years ago — None years old
Served as the abbot of Fulda and played a crucial role in establishing the monastery as a center of learning and spiritual life in the 8th century. Contributed to the spread of Christianity among the Frankish people through education and missionary work. Associated with the development of monastic rules and practices that influenced later monasticism in Europe.
Continue ReadingAlicia Boole Stott
Mathematician and theorist on geometry
Born
June 8th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1940 85 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed to the field of mathematics with a focus on geometric theories and four-dimensional space. Developed projections of higher dimensions and worked on the study of polyhedra, particularly regular polytopes. Authored several papers detailing complex mathematical concepts and geometric visualization techniques. Engaged closely with the mathematical community through correspondence and collaboration with other mathematicians of the era.
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