Charles Brooke
Rajah of Sarawak, founder of Brooke rule
Born
1829
197 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Malaysia
Links & References
Served as the Rajah of Sarawak from 1868 until death in 1917. Established a monarchy in Sarawak following the rule of his adopted father, James Brooke. Expanded the territory and maintained order through a series of reforms in governance, law, and education. Promoted economic growth through agriculture and trade. Fostered relations with local tribes and neighboring regions.
Ruled as Rajah of Sarawak for nearly 50 years
Implemented legal and educational reforms
Expanded the territory of Sarawak
Defended Sarawak from external threats
Other People Who Died on May 17th
Asa Packer
American businessman and university founder
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1879 147 years ago — 74 years old
A businessman from Pennsylvania, established a significant fortune in the railroad industry. Founded Lehigh University in 1865, contributing to higher education in the region. Involved in various philanthropic efforts aimed at supporting education and infrastructure development in Pennsylvania. His investments in railroads had a lasting influence on regional commerce.
Continue ReadingAbe Burrows
Playwright and director: 'Guys and Dolls'
Born
December 18th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1985 41 years ago — 74 years old
An author and playwright who contributed significantly to American theater. Early works included 'Coney Island' and 'The Guy Who Came Back'. Achieved acclaim with the musical 'Guys and Dolls', which won the Tony Award for Best Musical. Also wrote the book for the musical 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying', which garnered the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Established a reputation for witty dialogue and engaging narratives.
Continue ReadingPeter Schulz
German lawyer and Mayor of Hamburg
Born
April 25th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 83 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the Mayor of Hamburg during the early 1980s. Engaged in local governance, focused on urban issues and public administration. Advocated for policies aimed at improving the quality of life in Hamburg. Contributed to the development of the city's infrastructure and community programs.
Continue ReadingDaumantas of Pskov
Lithuanian prince and military leader
Died
May 17th, 1299 727 years ago — None years old
Born around 1240, this prince served as the ruler of Pskov in the late 13th century. His reign is characterized by military campaigns against the Teutonic Knights and efforts to consolidate power in the region. Under his leadership, Pskov successfully resisted external threats while maintaining autonomy. The prince's actions contributed to shaping the political landscape of the area during a tumultuous period marked by conflicts over territorial control and influence. Daumantas's legacy persisted beyond his death in 1299, impacting the future governance of Pskov and its relationships with neighboring states.
Continue ReadingWalasse Ting
Painter and poet, known for vibrant works
Born
October 13th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2010 16 years ago — 80 years old
Born in China in 1929, a painter and poet relocated to the United States, where a successful career unfolded. Known for colorful works that reflect elements of both Eastern and Western influences. His painting style integrated bright colors and bold strokes, capturing the essence of contemporary art. Contributions comprised not only visual art but also poetry, showcasing a unique blend of imagery and text. Achievements included numerous exhibitions across the United States and Europe, along with a prominent presence in the New York art scene during the mid-20th century. In later years, continued to create art until death in 2010.
Continue ReadingSamuel Clarke
English minister and philosopher
Born
October 11th, 1675 350 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1729 297 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent English minister and philosopher, contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy during the early 18th century. Engaged in debates on metaphysics and ethics, favoring rationalism and the use of logic in religious discourse. Published influential works such as 'A Discourse Concerning the Being and Attributes of God' which discussed the nature of divinity. Clarke also played a role in the development of early modern philosophy, particularly in the areas of free will and moral responsibility.
Continue Reading