Benjamin Church

American colonial military leader

Benjamin Church - Military & Warriors born 1639
Born

1639
386 years ago

Died
Category

Military & Warriors

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as a colonel in the British Army during the early colonial period. Played a significant role in King Philip's War, leading colonial forces against Native American tribes in New England. Founded the Church Company, contributing to colonial military tactics. His military strategies were influential in the development of American colonial defense.

Led colonial troops in King Philip's War

Founded the Church Company

Other People Who Died on January 17th

Peter I of Cyprus

King of Cyprus and military leader
Born
October 9th, 1328 697 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1369 656 years ago — 40 years old

Ruled as King of Cyprus from 1358 until death in 1369. Initiated military campaigns against the Mamluks and sought to expand the influence of the Kingdom of Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean. Participated in the Knights Templar and was involved in the Crusade efforts. Championed trade relations with Genoa and Venice, strengthening the economy of Cyprus. Commissioned construction of monuments like the Gothic Cathedral of St. Nicholas and promoted the arts during the reign.

Continue Reading

Bobby Fischer

Chess player and world champion
Born
March 9th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 64 years old

An American chess player and author, recognized as one of the greatest chess prodigies in history. Fischer became a World Chess Champion in 1972 after defeating Boris Spassky in a highly publicized match during the Cold War. This victory sparked a chess boom in the United States. Fischer contributed significantly to modern chess through his innovative opening strategies and emphasized the importance of psychological warfare in competitive play. He authored several books on chess, including the influential 'My 60 Memorable Games.' After becoming reclusive, Fischer spent years living in different countries, including Japan, before his death in 2008.

Continue Reading

Juliette Gordon Low

Founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA
Born
1860 165 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1927 98 years ago — 67 years old

Active in the early 20th century, this individual established the Girl Scouts of the USA in 1912, promoting leadership and outdoor skills among girls. Strongly influenced by the Scouting movement in Europe, the organization quickly gained traction, emphasizing community service and personal development. The founder devoted much of her life to the organization, serving as the first president and serving in various roles until her passing in 1927.

Continue Reading

Melvin Day

New Zealand painter and historian
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old

An accomplished painter and historian focused on New Zealand's artistic landscape. Specialization in traditional Māori art and contemporary New Zealand painting marked significant contributions. Worked as a lecturer in the School of Fine Arts at the University of Canterbury, influencing a generation of artists. Published various texts on art history and its context in New Zealand, enriching the understanding of the country's cultural identity.

Continue Reading

Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin

Spiritual leader, 52nd Da'i al-Mutlaq
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 99 years old

Served as the 52nd Da'i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra community from 1965 until passing in 2014. Focused on religious and communal guidance, promoting education and social welfare among followers. Elevated the position of the community through various initiatives and projects, emphasizing the importance of unity and progress. Authored numerous religious texts and led annual pilgrimages to significant sites, strengthening the faith and community bonds.

Continue Reading

Lola Montez

Actress and dancer of the 19th century
Born
February 17th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1861 164 years ago — 39 years old

Originated from Ireland, an actress and dancer gained notoriety in the mid-19th century through performances in Europe and America. Best recognized for the exotic dance known as the 'Spider Dance,' which captivated audiences and led to controversial fame. Involved in various affairs, including a notable relationship with King Ludwig I of Bavaria, which eventually resulted in her influence over his court. Her career took her across different countries, and her presence contributed to theatrical culture during a vibrant period for performing arts.

Continue Reading