Bobby Ryan
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Played in the NHL, primarily with the Anaheim Ducks, Ottawa Senators, and New Jersey Devils. Selected second overall in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. As a member of the Ducks, contributed to the team's victory in the 2007 Stanley Cup. Represented the United States in international competitions, including the Winter Olympics and World Championships.
Won the Stanley Cup with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007
Played in multiple NHL All-Star Games
Scored over 300 career goals in the NHL
Other People Born on March 17th
Claressa Shields
Boxer and mixed martial artist with titles
Born
March 17th, 1995 30 years ago
Claressa Shields achieved recognition as a professional boxer and mixed martial artist. Shields became the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing, securing victories in both the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games. In professional boxing, she gained attention by unifying the middleweight titles, becoming a world champion across multiple weight classes. Transitioning to mixed martial arts, Shields made her debut in 2021, continuing to compete at a high level. Her accomplishments have positioned her as one of the most successful boxers in women's history.
Continue ReadingThomas Robinson
Basketball player, NBA draft pick
Born
March 17th, 1991 34 years ago
An American-Lebanese basketball player, born in 1991, gained recognition during college basketball at the University of Kansas. Drafted in the 2012 NBA Draft as the 5th overall pick by the Sacramento Kings, played professionally in multiple leagues including the NBA and overseas. Throughout a career spanning various teams, showcased skills as a forward noted for rebounding and defensive capabilities. Participated in international competitions, representing Lebanon in the FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Continue ReadingMyrlie Evers-Williams
Journalist and civil rights activist
Born
March 17th, 1933 92 years ago
A prominent journalist and civil rights activist, this individual dedicated a significant portion of life to the fight for racial equality and social justice. After the assassination of her husband, Medgar Evers, in 1963, advocacy for civil rights intensified. She served as the chairman of the NAACP, becoming the first woman to hold this position. The individual also contributed to numerous publications, focusing on issues of race and justice, and was instrumental in the formation of various community and civil rights organizations. In 1996, she received the National Civil Rights Museum’s Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting contributions to the civil rights movement.
Continue ReadingBrigitte Helm
German-Swiss actress, Metropolis star
Born
March 17th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1996 29 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1908, an actress gained recognition primarily for portraying Maria in the silent film 'Metropolis' directed by Fritz Lang. This film released in 1927 became a landmark in cinematic history and showcased innovative special effects and production design. Helm also appeared in several other films throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s, contributing to the German film industry during that era. After transitioning away from the film industry in the late 1930s, she focused on her personal life and eventually moved to Switzerland. Her work remains influential in the realm of science fiction cinema.
Continue ReadingVille Kiviniemi
Finnish politician and mayor
Born
March 17th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1951 74 years ago — 74 years old
Became a prominent political figure in Finland during the early 20th century. Served as the mayor of Oulu, influencing local governance and development. Actively participated in Finnish politics during a crucial time in the nation's history, contributing to the shaping of policies and political structures. Engaged in community building and public service, reflecting the challenges faced by Finnish society during the period.
Continue ReadingNat King Cole
American singer and pianist known for 'Unforgettable'
Born
March 17th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1965 60 years ago — 45 years old
A celebrated American singer and pianist made significant contributions to the music industry, particularly in jazz and pop genres. Achieved fame as the host of 'The Nat King Cole Show', one of the first television shows to feature an African American host. Also known for a smooth vocal style and a sophisticated approach to music, popularized several classics including 'Mona Lisa' and 'Unforgettable'. Throughout the career, collaborated with numerous artists and musicians, blending different styles into performances that reached a wide audience.
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