Catherine the Great

Empress of Russia, Westernization advocate

Catherine the Great - Empress of Russia, Westernization advocate
Born

May 2nd, 1729
296 years ago

Died

November 17th, 1796
228 years ago — 67 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Russia

Links & References

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

Kris Russell

Ice hockey player, Calgary Flames defenseman
Born
May 2nd, 1987 38 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player, played primarily as a defenseman. Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams including the Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars, Calgary Flames, and Edmonton Oilers. Recognized for defensive skills and contributions to various teams during his NHL career. Won a gold medal as part of Canada's team at the 2005 IIHF World U18 Championships. Has been involved in community initiatives and charitable events throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Bianca Jagger

Model and activist for human rights
Born
May 2nd, 1945 80 years ago

Born in Nicaragua, a model and actress, gained recognition during the 1970s. Became widely associated with various humanitarian causes and human rights activism. Involvement in environmental and social justice issues increased over the years. Served as a prominent speaker at numerous international forums and events. Recognized for her advocacy in the fight against injustice and violence, and for supporting disenfranchised communities. Continues to engage in active campaigning for various global causes.

Continue Reading

Nana Kitade

Japanese singer-songwriter and actress
Born
May 2nd, 1987 38 years ago

Became popular after debuting in the early 2000s with a unique blend of pop and rock music. Gained recognition as a talented songwriter and engaged audiences with her distinct vocal style. Expanded career into acting and appeared in various television dramas and films. Achieved significant success in both music and acting in Japan.

Continue Reading

Yasir Shah

Pakistani cricketer with Test match success
Born
May 2nd, 1986 39 years ago

A professional cricketer excelled in the Test format for Pakistan. Debuted in 2014 and quickly became a key bowler for the national team. Achievements include several match-winning performances and the fastest bowler to reach 200 Test wickets. Played in numerous international series and contributed significantly to Pakistan's bowling attack.

Continue Reading

Pinky Lee

Television host and entertainer
Born
May 2nd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1993 32 years ago — 85 years old

A television host and entertainer, known for the children's television show launched in the early 1950s. The show featured lively antics, catchy music, and engaging storytelling that captivated young audiences. Lee developed a distinctive style marked by energetic performances and playful interactions with viewers. The program became a staple of children's programming during its run and contributed to the landscape of entertainment designed specifically for children. After the show's conclusion, Lee continued to work in various capacities within the entertainment industry, including occasional television guest appearances and work in live performances.

Continue Reading

William Petty

Irish-English politician, Prime Minister
Born
May 2nd, 1737 288 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1805 220 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1737, a prominent politician in Great Britain served as Prime Minister from 1782 to 1783. Held significant positions, including the 2nd Earl of Shelburne. Focused on liberal economic policies and promoted free trade. Played a role in negotiating the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which ended the American Revolutionary War. Contributed to the establishment of the British political landscape during a time of significant change.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 17th

Emperor Jomei of Japan

Japanese Emperor during the Asuka period
Died
November 17th, 641 1383 years ago — None years old

Reigned from 629 to 641 during the Asuka period. Succeeded Emperor Sushun. Under the reign, efforts were made to solidify the legal and administrative structure of Japan. Promoted Buddhism, contributing to its growth and establishment in the region. Vision included fostering connections with the Korean kingdoms.

Continue Reading

Gregory VII of Constantinople

Patriarch of Constantinople, theologian
Born
1850 175 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1924 100 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 1923 until death in 1924. Advocated for church unity and addressed the challenges faced by the Orthodox Church in a changing political landscape. Focused on theological discussions and the relationship between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches. Attempted to promote dialogue and reconciliation among different Christian denominations.

Continue Reading

John T. Downey

CIA agent and federal judge
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2014 10 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 Reading

Hugh Price Hughes

Clergyman and theologian, pioneer of Methodism
Born
February 9th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1902 122 years ago — 55 years old

A Welsh-English clergyman and theologian, contributed significantly to the development of nonconformist Christianity in Britain. Founded the 'Church of England Temperance Society' and led the 'London Mission', promoting social responsibility within the church. Advocated for the use of modern methods in evangelism and was instrumental in connecting faith with social action. Delivered influential lectures and published numerous writings on religious and social issues.

Continue Reading

Surjit Bindrakhia

Indian singer and Bhangra artist
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2003 21 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent figure in Punjabi music, gained recognition for an energetic and unique singing style. Achievements include numerous hit songs that popularized Bhangra music across India and the Punjabi diaspora. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to the genre's evolution in the 1990s and early 2000s. Released several albums and singles that are still celebrated within Punjabi culture. Continued to influence later generations of Punjabi singers.

Continue Reading

David Zeisberger

Czech-American missionary and clergyman
Born
April 11th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1808 216 years ago — 87 years old

Czech-American clergyman and missionary served primarily among Native American communities in North America. Arrived in Pennsylvania in 1745 and joined the Moravian Church, where he worked to spread Christianity among Indigenous peoples. Established mission communities, achieving notable success among the Delaware and Mohican tribes. Played a crucial role in the development of the Moravian settlements in Ohio, particularly in the founding of the town of Schoenbrunn. His writings on the culture and experiences of Native Americans contributed to historical understanding of the time.

Continue Reading