Albert
Duke of Prussia
Held the title of Duke of Prussia from 1525 until his death in 1568. Founded the Duchy of Prussia, which marked the establishment of a Protestant state. Oversaw the transition from a monastic state under the Teutonic Knights to a secular duchy. Engaged in political and military affairs during the Reformation period.
Founded the Duchy of Prussia in 1525
Converted the Teutonic Order's state to Protestantism
Set policies that shaped the region's governance
Other People Born on May 17th
Todd Redmond
Baseball pitcher with Toronto Blue Jays
Born
May 17th, 1985 41 years ago
Played professional baseball primarily as a pitcher. Made MLB debut with the Atlanta Braves in 2013. Joined the Toronto Blue Jays, contributing to the team's pitching rotation. Spent time with other teams in minor league affiliations and earned recognition for strong performances in various games during his career.
Continue ReadingJohnny Warren
Footballer, coach, and sportscaster
Born
May 17th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2004 21 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in Australian football, contributed significantly to the sport as both a player and coach. Played for the national team and was instrumental in promoting football in Australia. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting, providing insights and analysis that shaped public understanding of the game. His commitment to the sport led to the establishment of football as a respected discipline in Australia, fostering a new generation of players and fans.
Continue ReadingRobert Darcy
English politician and diplomat
Born
May 17th, 1718 308 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1778 248 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the 4th Earl of Holderness and held the position of Secretary of State for the Southern Department. Active in British politics during the 18th century, facilitated diplomatic relations and policy formulation. Negotiated important treaties and corresponded with various political figures of the time.
Continue ReadingCharlie Gubb
Rugby league player for New Zealand
Born
May 17th, 1990 36 years ago
Played rugby league in New Zealand and Australia. Represented the Junior Kiwis and played professionally in the National Rugby League (NRL) for the Penrith Panthers and the Auckland Warriors. Contributed to team strategies and performance on the field. Known for playing in the forward position, demonstrating strength and skill in competitive matches.
Continue ReadingAntonio Aguilar
Mexican singer-songwriter and actor
Born
May 17th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2007 19 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent figure in the Mexican music and film industry, contributed to the mariachi genre and traditional Mexican music. Wrote and produced numerous successful songs and albums while appearing in many films during the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. His collaborations and performances helped popularize the mariachi style in both Mexico and the United States. Managed a successful career that included acting, producing, and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Mexico through music.
Continue ReadingHenri Barbusse
French author and journalist, 'Le Feu'
Born
May 17th, 1873 153 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1935 90 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1873, an author and journalist wrote significant works exploring the experiences of soldiers during World War I. 'Le Feu' (Under Fire) depicted the brutal realities of trench warfare, highlighting the struggles faced by soldiers. Barbusse's writing emphasized the importance of human experience amidst the horrors of war. In addition to fiction, contributed to various publications with essays and articles. Incorporated themes of anti-war sentiment and critique of militarism throughout the career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 20th
Charles Lyttelton
English politician, 9th Governor-General
Born
August 8th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1977 49 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 9th Governor-General of New Zealand from 1946 to 1952. Held the title of 10th Viscount Cobham. Engaged in various political roles and contributed to several legislative discussions and initiatives during time in office.
Continue ReadingWilliam Murray
Scottish lawyer and Chancellor of the Exchequer
Born
March 2nd, 1705 321 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1793 233 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1705, served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Scotland. Held the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer, responsible for the economic and financial matters of the government. Elevated to the peerage as the 1st Earl of Mansfield, influenced the development of English law, particularly through judicial decisions. His rulings played a significant role in shaping legal precedents in the 18th century.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Truman
Brewer and businessman in England
Born
1699 327 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1780 246 years ago — 81 years old
Established a successful brewing business in England during the 18th century. Contributed to the development of the beer industry through innovation and quality production. Operated a brewery that gained recognition for its distinct ales and lagers. His work laid the groundwork for future brewing practices in the region.
Continue ReadingNoboru Ishiguro
Japanese animator and director of anime
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2012 14 years ago — 74 years old
An influential animator and director in the Japanese animation industry, notable for directing various anime series. Contributed significantly to the field, particularly with works that combined unique storytelling and visual artistry. Developed a distinctive style that resonated with audiences, achieving recognition in Japan and internationally. Worked on both adaptations and original works, collaborating with prominent studios throughout a career that spanned several decades. His efforts in the industry helped to shape contemporary anime aesthetics and narratives.
Continue ReadingKhushwant Singh
Journalist and author of Train to Pakistan
Born
February 2nd, 1915 111 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2014 12 years ago — 99 years old
Born in 1915, an Indian journalist and author contributed significantly to literature and journalism. Gained recognition for writing several novels, short stories, and columns. Most notably authored the acclaimed novel 'Train to Pakistan', which depicted the impact of the partition of India. Worked as an editor for various publications including 'Hindustan Times'. Held distinguished positions in cultural organizations and was awarded the Padma Bhushan, which was later returned in protest against the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Contributed to debates and discussions on social issues through essays and articles, maintaining a notable presence in Indian public life until passing in 2014.
Continue ReadingHilderaldo Bellini
Brazilian footballer, 1962 World Cup captain
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2014 12 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent footballer, achieved notable success in professional football. Played as a defender, primarily for São Paulo FC and Atlético Mineiro during the 1950s and 1960s. Captained the Brazilian national team to victory in the 1962 FIFA World Cup held in Chile. Renowned for defensive skills and leadership on the field. After retiring, contributed to football coaching and management.
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