Ben Nelson
American politician, 37th Governor of Nebraska
Served as the 37th Governor of Nebraska from 1991 to 1999. Held the position of President of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Represented Nebraska in the U.S. Senate from 2001 to 2013. Focused on health care and agricultural issues during tenure in the Senate.
Governed Nebraska from 1991 to 1999
Served in the U.S. Senate from 2001 to 2013
Led the National Association of Insurance Commissioners
Other People Born on May 17th
Virginie Loveling
Belgian author and poet
Born
May 17th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1923 102 years ago — 87 years old
Virginie Loveling was a Belgian author and poet who contributed significantly to the literary landscape of the 19th century. She wrote novels, essays, and poetry, exploring themes of social change and women's roles in society. Often associated with the literary movement emphasizing realism, her works reflect the cultural context of her time. Loveling's writing was distinguished by its clarity and emotional depth, which resonated with readers. Her best-known work, the novel 'Marie', focused on the life and struggles of women in contemporary society, and remains an important part of Belgian literature.
Continue ReadingAlfonso XIII of Spain
Spanish monarch during turbulent times
Born
May 17th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 55 years old
Became king of Spain at birth in 1886. His reign saw significant political turmoil, including the dictatorship of Miguel Primo de Rivera and the eventual establishment of the Second Spanish Republic in 1931. Faced challenges from various political factions and the growing influence of republicanism. Abdicated in 1931, following the establishment of the republic, and lived in exile in France. Returned to Spain post-World War II but remained a figure of the past rather than an active political player.
Continue ReadingFederico II Gonzaga
Duke of Mantua and renowned patron
Born
May 17th, 1500 525 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1540 485 years ago — 40 years old
Duke of Mantua from 1540 until death in 1546, held significant power in the Italian states during the Renaissance. Established Mantua as a cultural hub, fostering the arts and attracting notable figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Titian. Inherited the duchy and worked on strengthening its economy and military. Known for his contributions to the development of the arts and architecture in Mantua, including support for the construction of the Palazzo Te, a masterpiece of Mannerist architecture. Engaged in political alliances and conflicts, including involvement in the Franco-Italian Wars.
Continue ReadingAndreas Felix von Oefele
German historian and librarian
Born
May 17th, 1706 319 years ago
Died
1780 245 years ago — 74 years old
Graduated with a degree in theology and worked as a librarian at the University of Munich. Published several historical works focusing on German history and antiquities. Contributed significantly to the field of historiography through meticulous research and documentation of sources. Actively engaged in academic discussions and collaborations with fellow historians and scholars.
Continue ReadingOdd Hassel
Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate in chemistry
Born
May 17th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1981 44 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of molecular structures, using X-ray crystallography. Developed methods for investigating the symmetry and structure of molecular compounds. His work led to advancements in understanding chemical bonding and molecular conformation. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1979 for achievements in this area.
Continue ReadingJien
Japanese monk, poet, historian, and author
Born
May 17th, 1155 870 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1225 800 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1155, a prominent figure in Japanese history, served as a monk and produced significant works encompassing poetry and historical writings. Contributions included the compilation of historical texts that documented the events of the time and the promotion of Buddhist principles through poetic expression. His work blended religious insights with literary artistry, offering a perspective on the political and social landscape of medieval Japan.
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