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
Chris Henry
American football wide receiver
Born
May 17th, 1983 43 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 ReadingA. J. Casson
Canadian painter of landscape art
Born
May 17th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1992 34 years ago — 93 years old
This individual contributed significantly to Canadian art as a landscape painter. Associated with the Group of Seven, a collective of artists dedicated to depicting the Canadian wilderness, this painter focused on capturing the essence of the Ontario countryside. Influenced by the natural beauty of Canada, the works feature bold colors and distinctive brushwork. This artist's career spanned several decades, with exhibitions showcasing the interplay of light and shadow in natural settings. The works continue to be celebrated for their representation of the Canadian landscape.
Continue ReadingMayte Martínez
Spanish middle-distance runner
Born
May 17th, 1976 50 years ago
Competed in middle-distance events, specializing in the 800 meters. Participated in multiple international competitions including the Olympics and World Championships. Achieved significant success in European competitions, earning medals and recognition for performances. Excelled in the 800 meters, establishing personal bests that placed among the top tier of athletes in the event.
Continue ReadingTodd 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 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 ReadingMauro Martini
Italian race car driver
Born
May 17th, 1964 62 years ago
Competed in various racing championships, including Formula 1. Achieved notable success in sports car racing, particularly with the Nissan and Toyota teams. Participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, earning podium finishes. During the 1990s, contributed to the development of race cars as a test driver.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 20th
Noboru 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 ReadingTerukuni Manzō
Japanese sumo wrestler, 38th Yokozuna
Born
January 10th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1977 49 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent sumo wrestler, achieved the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in sumo wrestling. Competed in the top division and made significant contributions to the sport. Terukuni held the championship at the prestigious 1950 Haru Basho. Renowned for a powerful style and strategic techniques. Retired from active competition in the 1960s and continued to influence the sport.
Continue ReadingGirija Prasad Koirala
Nepalese politician, Prime Minister
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2010 16 years ago — 86 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Nepal multiple times, with tenures spanning from 1991 to 1994 and 2000 to 2001. Played a significant role in Nepal's transition to democracy after the end of the Panchayat system. Instrumental in formulating the 1990 constitution that established the parliamentary system. His leadership was pivotal during times of political instability in Nepal, particularly during the civil conflict.
Continue ReadingMaria of Orange-Nassau
Dutch princess and noblewoman
Born
September 5th, 1642 384 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1688 338 years ago — 45 years old
Born into the House of Orange-Nassau, this individual was a prominent figure in the 17th century. She married William II, Prince of Orange, and became the mother of William III of England. Her marriage fortified alliances within European nobility. Her influence extended through her children, particularly William III, who played a significant role in the Glorious Revolution in England. The life and legacy of this princess were intertwined with the political landscape of Europe during her time.
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.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Zangara
Assassin of Anton Cermak
Born
September 7th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1933 93 years ago — 32 years old
An Italian-American attempted to assassinate the future president Franklin D. Roosevelt on February 15, 1933, but instead shot Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak. Following the assassination attempt, Zangara was apprehended, tried, and sentenced to death. He was executed in the electric chair on March 10, 1933. His assassination attempt marked a significant moment in American political history.
Continue Reading