Anna Vasa of Sweden
Polish and Swedish princess
Born into the Vasa dynasty, this individual played a significant role in Swedish history through a strategic marital alliance. Marriage to John III of Sweden strengthened ties between Sweden and Poland. This figure had a notable influence on the Swedish court and participated in political affairs. As a queen consort, oversaw various ceremonial and diplomatic activities, shaping cultural and political exchanges between the two nations. The legacy includes contributions to the continuation of the Vasa lineage and the promotion of Catholicism in Sweden.
Marrying John III of Sweden
Influencing Swedish political affairs
Other People Born on May 17th
Francis Tombs
Engineer and politician, Baron Tombs
Born
May 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1924, an English engineer and politician gained prominence in the field of engineering and public service. Served as a member of the House of Lords and contributed to various engineering projects that shaped the infrastructure. Engaged in political discussions and development strategies, influencing engineering policies within the government. Provided expertise in engineering practices through various positions held throughout the career.
Continue ReadingEarl Morrall
American football player and coach
Born
May 17th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
A professional American football player and coach. Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for several teams, including the San Francisco 49ers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Miami Dolphins. Achieved significant success with the Miami Dolphins, contributing to their undefeated season in 1972 and their Super Bowl VII victory. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, sharing expertise with younger players and coaches.
Continue ReadingJoan Benham
English actress known for 'The Day of the Triffids'
Born
May 17th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1918, an English actress achieved recognition in film and television throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Featured in the role of the character in the 1962 film 'The Day of the Triffids,' the actress made significant contributions to the UK's entertainment scene. In addition to her film work, she appeared in various television series, enhancing her presence in the medium. Her career spanned several decades, showcasing versatility and engagement with numerous productions.
Continue ReadingBob Merrill
American composer and screenwriter
Born
May 17th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1921, this American composer and screenwriter was influential in the world of musical theater and film. Merrill wrote the music and lyrics for several popular Broadway shows, with 'Funny Girl' being one of the most celebrated, featuring the classic song 'People'. His work spanned several decades, contributing extensively to the landscape of musical entertainment. In addition to Broadway, he also wrote for films, creating songs that resonated with audiences and enhanced cinematic narratives.
Continue ReadingPeter Burge
Australian Cricketer and Test Player
Born
May 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 69 years old
A notable Australian cricketer, played as a right-handed batsman and represented Australia in Test matches from 1953 to 1961. His first-class cricket career spanned from 1948 to 1962, primarily with Queensland. Burge made significant contributions to the game, particularly noted for his batting skills and playing style. He participated in 34 Test matches during his international career, scoring 2,030 runs. Burge was part of the Australian team that won the Ashes series in 1958-59 against England.
Continue ReadingLisa Fonssagrives
Model for high fashion and photography
Born
May 17th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Sweden, a prominent model emerged during the mid-20th century, gaining recognition for work in high fashion. Collaborated with influential photographers such as Richard Avedon and Irving Penn, achieving iconic status in the fashion world. Played a significant role in the popularization of editorial fashion photography while modeling for Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, contributing to the evolution of modeling as a profession. Later, ventured into the world of fine art and became involved in photography, showcasing original perspectives and techniques.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 26th
Tjalling Koopmans
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 28th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1985 40 years ago — 74 years old
A Dutch-American economist and mathematician, contributions centered around operations research and economic theory. Played a significant role in developing the theory of optimal economic organization, particularly in decentralized economies. Work laid the foundation for the field of mathematical economics. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1975 for contributions to the economic theory that highlights the allocation of resources in a decentralized context. Also served as a professor at Yale University, influencing the next generation of economists.
Continue ReadingHoward Hanson
Composer, Conductor, and Educator
Born
October 28th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1981 44 years ago — 84 years old
This individual was a prominent American composer and conductor. He served as the director of the Eastman School of Music for several decades and significantly influenced American orchestral music during the 20th century. He composed several orchestral works, choral pieces, and operas. His Symphony No. 2, known as 'Romantic,' gained significant acclaim and is one of his most performed works. His efforts in music education shaped the careers of numerous musicians and composers.
Continue ReadingMary Whiton Calkins
Philosopher and psychologist, first female president of the APA
Born
1863 162 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1930 95 years ago — 67 years old
Contributions to psychology included work on self-psychology and memory. Established a laboratory at Wellesley College, becoming the first woman president of the American Psychological Association in 1905. Calkins developed paired-association technique to explore memory processes. Published numerous papers and books on the relationship between psychology and philosophy.
Continue ReadingArnošt Lustig
Czech author and Holocaust survivor
Born
December 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2011 14 years ago — 84 years old
An influential Czech author and playwright, this individual gained recognition for literary works that centered around the Holocaust and experiences of Jewish identity. Born in Prague, the person survived various concentration camps during World War II, which deeply shaped the narratives penned in novels and screenplays. The body of work includes notable titles such as 'Dita Saxová' and 'Night and Hope', which explore themes of suffering, survival, and resilience. In addition to fiction, contributions to screenwriting included themes from Jewish history and culture, which garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally. The individual also spent time in the U.S., where involvement in educational and cultural exchange programs promoted awareness of Holocaust history through literature.
Continue ReadingRoger Mortimer
2nd Earl of March, English commander
Born
April 25th, 1287 738 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1360 665 years ago — 72 years old
Held the title of 2nd Earl of March and played a significant role in the early stages of the Hundred Years' War. Captured by the French in 1346 during the Battle of Crécy, was later released and participated in various military campaigns. Involved in political matters and exerted influence over English royalty. Died in 1360.
Continue ReadingRobert R. Livingston
American lawyer and politician, Secretary of Foreign Affairs
Born
November 27th, 1746 279 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1813 212 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the first Secretary of Foreign Affairs for the United States from 1781 to 1783, playing a crucial role in diplomatic relations during the Revolutionary War. Participated in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence and was a prominent figure in New York politics. Held various influential positions including Chancellor of New York, significantly impacting the state's legal landscape. Contributed to land dealings and served in various capacities that shaped early American governance.
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