Catherine the Great
Empress of Russia, Westernization advocate
Catherine the Great ascended to the throne of Russia in 1762 after a coup d'état against her husband, Emperor Peter III. During her reign, she expanded the Russian Empire significantly, establishing a powerful and influential state. She implemented a series of reforms aimed at modernizing Russia's administration and economy, inspired by Enlightenment ideas. Patron of the arts, she founded the Smolny Institute for Noble Maidens, the first state-financed higher education institution for women. Catherine also engaged in foreign affairs, promoting territorial expansion through successful military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire and Poland.
Expansion of the Russian Empire
Implementation of administrative reforms
Patronage of the arts and education
Other People Born on May 2nd
Robert Buckley
Actor in One Tree Hill and iZombie
Born
May 2nd, 1981 44 years ago
Born on May 2, 1981, an American actor gained recognition for roles in television series. Gained prominence through the character Clay Evans in the series One Tree Hill. Later portrayed Major Lilywhite in the series iZombie. Additionally, appeared in various other television roles and films throughout a career spanning over a decade.
Continue ReadingIsyana Sarasvati
Indonesian singer and songwriter
Born
May 2nd, 1993 32 years ago
Born in 1993, this individual gained popularity as a singer and songwriter in Indonesia. A debut album was released in 2015, receiving critical acclaim and commercial success. The musical style incorporates pop and traditional Indonesian elements, showcasing a unique range of vocal abilities. Collaborations with various artists in the Indonesian music scene extended the reach and diversity of her work. The individual has also received several awards in recognition of artistic contributions and excellence in music performances.
Continue ReadingLucy Dacus
Singer-songwriter with acclaimed albums
Born
May 2nd, 1995 30 years ago
Started her music career in 2015 and gained recognition with the debut album 'No Burden' released in 2016. Released several albums that received critical acclaim, including 'Historian' in 2018 and 'Home Video' in 2021. Noted for blending personal narratives with introspective lyrics, influencing the indie rock genre. Collaborated with other artists and formed the supergroup Boygenius with Phoebe Bridgers and Julien Baker.
Continue ReadingSaara Aalto
Finnish singer and actress with Eurovision
Born
May 2nd, 1987 38 years ago
Aalto gained prominence through participation in various singing competitions, including finishing as a runner-up in the 2012 season of the Finnish version of The X Factor. She represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2018 with the song "Monsters," achieving significant media attention. In addition to her singing career, Aalto has acted in musical theater, starring in productions such as 'Aligning the Stars' and 'My Fair Lady.' Aalto has released multiple albums, showcasing a blend of pop and contemporary music.
Continue ReadingJeong Jinwoon
South Korean actor and singer
Born
May 2nd, 1991 34 years ago
Born in South Korea, a career in entertainment began in 2008 as a member of the boy band 2AM, which achieved significant popularity. This individual also gained recognition for acting, particularly through roles in television dramas such as 'Dream High 2' and 'A Witch's Love'. The transition between music and acting showcased versatility in the entertainment industry. Participation in various reality shows further contributed to visibility and connection with fans.
Continue ReadingMaría Teresa Torró Flor
Tennis Player; French Open Doubles Winner
Born
May 2nd, 1992 33 years ago
A professional tennis player from Spain, made significant strides in women's tennis during the early 2010s. Competed in various international tournaments on the WTA Tour, demonstrating skill on both singles and doubles courts. Achieved notable success by winning the French Open women's doubles title, showcasing proficiency in high-pressure match situations. Represented Spain in several international team competitions, contributing to the development and presence of Spanish players in the global tennis scene.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 17th
Ante Trumbić
Croatian lawyer and politician
Born
May 17th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1938 87 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician who served as the 27th Mayor of Split. Advocated for Croatian rights during the early 20th century and played an essential role in regional politics. Contributed to the establishment of various civic initiatives and was involved in the Croatian National Council. His legal expertise and political acumen shaped local governance in Split during a period of significant change.
Continue ReadingPete Newell
Basketball coach and player with NCAA title
Born
August 31st, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 93 years old
This individual played college basketball at the University of California, Berkeley, where a successful career included being a key player on the team that won the 1939 NCAA championship. Transitioning to coaching, this individual led the University of California, Santa Barbara to great success and became the head coach of the University of California, Berkeley. While coaching, this individual emphasized fundamentals and developed many players who later achieved professional success in the NBA. This individual also served as a coach for the U.S. men's national basketball team, guiding the team to success in international competitions.
Continue ReadingCharles de Sainte-Maure
French general and duc de Montausier
Born
October 6th, 1610 415 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1690 335 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1610, a French general and noble distinguished in military service. Held the title of duc de Montausier. Participated in the Thirty Years' War, showcasing strategic military leadership. Served notably during the Franco-Spanish War. His contributions to military campaigns led to various successes, particularly in defending cultural and territorial interests of France during turbulent times.
Continue ReadingCharles W. Chesnutt
American novelist and short story writer
Born
June 20th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1932 93 years ago — 74 years old
Chesnutt was an American writer primarily active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He wrote novels and short stories addressing issues of race and identity in the post-Civil War era. Major works include 'The Conjure Woman' and 'The Marrow of Tradition', which explore the African American experience. Chesnutt's works were among the first to offer a complex portrayal of black life in America, blending folklore and social commentary.
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CIA agent and federal judge
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a CIA agent during the Cold War, participating in covert operations in support of U.S. foreign policy. Following a career in intelligence, transitioned to a judicial role, serving as a federal judge. Contributed to the legal community and focused on upholding the law during tenure in the judiciary.
Continue ReadingAntoine of Navarre
French noble and King of Navarre
Born
April 22nd, 1518 507 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1562 463 years ago — 44 years old
Served as the King of Navarre and a prominent figure in the French Wars of Religion. Participated in the Battle of Pavia in 1525, where he was captured. Married Jeanne d'Albret, which strengthened the Protestant cause in France. Contributed to the expansion of Protestantism in the region and held significant influence until his death.
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