Anna d'Este
Duchess consort of Nemours
Born into the ruling family of Ferrara, a noblewoman became the Duchess consort of Nemours through her marriage to Henry I of France. Her life was marked by the complexities of court politics, alliances, and cultural patronage during the Renaissance period. She played a significant role in the politics of France and Italy and was considered a key figure in her husband's court. As a prominent patron of the arts, she supported numerous artists and contributed to the cultural landscape of her time.
Served as Duchess consort of Nemours
Patronized artists and cultural projects
Other People Born on November 16th
Omar Mateen
Islamic terrorist, Orlando shooter
Born
November 16th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 30 years old
Born in 1986, committed the Orlando nightclub shooting on June 12, 2016. The attack occurred at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, resulting in 49 deaths and numerous injuries. The event became one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history. The shooter pledged allegiance to ISIS during the attack, which drew national and international attention to issues of terrorism and gun control.
Continue ReadingMohammad Hussein Fadlallah
Iraqi-Lebanese cleric and religious leader
Born
November 16th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1935, a prominent Iraqi-Lebanese cleric dedicated to Shia Islam and education. Served as a leading figure in the religious community and influenced political thought in Lebanon. Advocated for social justice and educational reforms. Authored numerous texts on theology and philosophy, addressing contemporary issues facing society. Contributed to various educational institutions and promoted cultural dialogue.
Continue ReadingKalākaua of Hawaii
King of Hawaii, author of the 1887 Constitution
Born
November 16th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
1891 135 years ago — 55 years old
Served as the King of Hawaii from 1874 until 1891. Focused on strengthening the Hawaiian monarchy and promoting tourism and culture. Advocated for the restoration of the monarchy's sovereign authority through the 1887 Constitution, which ultimately limited the power of the monarchy. Championed the Hawaiian Renaissance, encouraging pride in Hawaiian culture and traditions. Undertook a world tour, promoting Hawaii's interests and establishing diplomatic relations.
Continue ReadingJosé Saramago
Portuguese novelist and Nobel laureate
Born
November 16th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 87 years old
A prolific novelist, recognized for contributions to literature. Published numerous works exploring complex themes and philosophical questions. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1998 for a body of work characterized by imaginative narratives and deep social analysis. Utilized a unique writing style, often employing long sentences and minimal punctuation, which challenged conventional narrative forms. Notable works include 'Blindness', 'The Gospel According to Jesus Christ', and 'The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis'.
Continue ReadingRobert Nozick
Philosopher and author of Anarchy, State, Utopia
Born
November 16th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2002 24 years ago — 63 years old
An American philosopher focused on political philosophy and ethics. Authored the influential book 'Anarchy, State, Utopia' in 1974, which presented a libertarian view of the state and individual rights. Served as a professor at Harvard University, contributing significantly to philosophical discourse. Explored theories of justice and knowledge, engaging with the ideas of other philosophers. Contributed to debates on utilitarianism and the nature of political authority.
Continue ReadingSteve Argüelles
English drummer and record producer
Born
November 16th, 1963 62 years ago
Argüelles has performed as a drummer and producer in the jazz and contemporary music scenes. Collaborated with various prominent musicians and groups, contributing to a broad range of projects. Released several albums showcasing original compositions and interpretations of jazz standards. Played at various international festivals and venues, earning recognition within the music community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
John Deere
Blacksmith and founder of Deere & Company
Born
February 7th, 1804 222 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1886 139 years ago — 82 years old
A blacksmith and businessman established a brand recognized for agricultural machinery. Pioneered the creation of a plow that efficiently tilled the tough Midwestern soil, leading to significant advancements in farming techniques. Founded Deere & Company in 1837, which became one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. The business model emphasized high-quality products and customer service, contributing to the growth of modern agriculture.
Continue ReadingGo-Fushimi
Emperor of Japan during the Nanboku-chō period
Born
1288 738 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1336 689 years ago — 48 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1287, serving as the 96th emperor of Japan during a tumultuous period marked by imperial conflict. The reign was characterized by the Nanboku-chō period, which involved the division of loyalty between competing imperial lines. Go-Fushimi's era included ongoing power struggles, notably between the Northern and Southern courts. After abdication in 1298, remained an influential figure during the continued efforts to unify the imperial seat. Passed away in 1336.
Continue ReadingJorge Rafael Videla
Argentinian general and President
Born
August 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 43rd President of Argentina from 1976 to 1981 following a military coup. Led the country during the Dirty War, a period characterized by widespread human rights abuses. Implemented policies aimed at suppressing dissent and promoting economic reforms. Oversaw actions that resulted in the disappearance and torture of thousands.
Continue ReadingLiu Jianfeng
Chinese warlord during the Five Dynasties
Died
May 17th, 896 1129 years ago — None years old
During the Five Dynasties period, one warlord played a significant role in regional politics and military conflicts. This figure seized power and ruled with authority over the region, establishing a foothold amid the fragmentation of the Tang Dynasty's influence. The reign extended through tactical warfare and alliances with other military leaders. Despite the chaotic political environment, the warlord maintained control over territories and engaged in numerous battles, solidifying a legacy in Chinese history through military prowess and governance.
Continue ReadingAbe Burrows
Playwright and director: 'Guys and Dolls'
Born
December 18th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1985 40 years ago — 74 years old
An author and playwright who contributed significantly to American theater. Early works included 'Coney Island' and 'The Guy Who Came Back'. Achieved acclaim with the musical 'Guys and Dolls', which won the Tony Award for Best Musical. Also wrote the book for the musical 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying', which garnered the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Established a reputation for witty dialogue and engaging narratives.
Continue ReadingLeopold Auenbrugger
Austrian physician and inventor of percussion
Born
November 19th, 1722 303 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1809 216 years ago — 86 years old
A physician developed the technique of percussion for diagnosing diseases. This innovation transformed clinical practices. Initial experiments involved using his own chest as a model to demonstrate the value of tapping and feeling the chest wall to gather diagnostic information. The technique was outlined in a treatise published in 1761, which laid the groundwork for modern physical examination methods. The work emphasized the importance of systematic observation in medicine and was influential in the fields of internal medicine and diagnostics.
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