Charles de Lorraine
French cardinal and church leader
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
France
Links & References
A prominent figure in the Catholic Church during the 16th century, this individual served as a cardinal and played a significant role in religious affairs in France. Participated actively in the French Wars of Religion, aligning closely with the Catholic League. Contributed to the strengthening of Catholicism in France, supporting counter-reformation efforts and engaging in various ecclesiastical matters. Held significant influence over the church and contributed to the political landscape of France during a turbulent period.
Served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church
Aligned with the Catholic League during religious wars
Other People Born on February 17th
Horace-Bénédict de Saussure
Swiss physicist and meteorologist
Born
February 17th, 1740 285 years ago
Died
1799 226 years ago — 59 years old
Contributed to the fields of physics and meteorology. Developed the first known altitude measuring device, the 'barometer'. Researched the properties of air and the formation of clouds. Conducted significant studies on the nature of heat, leading to advancements in thermometry.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Maximilian Klinger
German playwright and author
Born
February 17th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
1831 194 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1752, played a significant role in the development of the German Romantics through dramatic works. Known for the play "Sturm und Drang," which became a cornerstone of the Sturm und Drang movement. Also contributed essays and critiques, emphasizing emotional depth and individuality in literature. Influenced contemporary and later writers with innovative storytelling techniques.
Continue ReadingBuddy Ryan
American football coach and innovator
Born
February 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent American football coach, shaped defensive strategies in the NFL throughout a notable career. Served as a coordinator for the New York Jets during their Super Bowl III victory. Later, as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, developed the famed 46 Defense, which revolutionized defensive football. His coaching style and approach influenced many future coaches and players. After his tenure with the Eagles, worked with the Arizona Cardinals, contributing to their defensive schemes. Left a lasting legacy in the world of professional football.
Continue ReadingBrian Bruney
Baseball pitcher with MLB experience
Born
February 17th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, a baseball player entered Major League Baseball in 2003. Played for the Arizona Diamondbacks, New York Yankees, and several other teams during a career spanning over seven seasons. Achieved notable success as a relief pitcher, contributing to the Yankees' 2009 World Series championship victory. His career included stints with teams across multiple leagues, showcasing a range of pitching skills and strategies.
Continue ReadingPierre Le Pesant sieur de Boisguilbert
French economist and monetary theorist
Born
February 17th, 1646 379 years ago
Died
1714 311 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1646, a French economist contributed significantly to economic thought during the 17th century. Published 'Esprit de la commerce' in 1695, the work explored the relationship between commerce and societal well-being. Advocated for the role of trade in economic prosperity, emphasizing the importance of free markets and monetary stability. His ideas predated and influenced later economic theories, addressing issues like public finance and taxation. Engaged in debates on the role of the state in economic matters, challenging mercantilist views prevalent in his time.
Continue ReadingCraig L. Thomas
American politician and captain
Born
February 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2007 18 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Wyoming from 1995 until 2007. Prior to the Senate, held the position of U.S. Representative from 1989 to 1995. Acquired a commission as a captain in the U.S. Navy. Worked on various committees during tenure, including the Armed Services and Energy and Natural Resources committees.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 26th
Amber Reeves
Author and scholar of New Zealand-English literature
Born
July 1st, 1887 138 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1981 43 years ago — 94 years old
Born in New Zealand, this individual became a prominent author and scholar. The writings focused on feminist literature, exploring themes of gender and society. Contributions to the fields of academia and literature included works that analyzed the role of women in society. Involved in the suffragette movement, efforts supported women's rights and education. The individual also worked to promote literature that challenged societal norms.
Continue ReadingJohn Fothergill
English physician and botanist, published works
Born
March 8th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1780 244 years ago — 68 years old
Practiced medicine in England in the 18th century, specializing in botany and natural history. Contributed significantly to the understanding of numerous plant species and their medicinal uses. Played a key role in the development of botanical gardens and the promotion of systematic botany. Engaged with prominent scientific communities, influencing the field of medicine through horticultural practices.
Continue ReadingClaude Adrien Helvétius
French philosopher and social theorist
Born
January 26th, 1715 310 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1771 253 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1715 in Paris, this philosopher contributed significantly to the Enlightenment. Studied philosophy and medicine at the University of Reims. Published the influential work 'De l'esprit' in 1758, which examined the nature of human thought and understanding, arguing that all mental faculties were developed through experience and education. Held significant discussions on moral philosophy and education, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in shaping individual and social outcomes. Engaged with prominent contemporaries, including Diderot and Rousseau. His ideas fostered dialogue in philosophical and educational reform.
Continue ReadingDoug Harvey
Ice Hockey Player and Coach
Born
December 19th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1989 35 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent ice hockey player and coach, recognized for pivotal contributions to the sport during the mid-20th century. Played primarily as a defenseman, achieved success with the Montreal Canadiens. Instrumental in developing the position and noted for exceptional skill and sportsmanship. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, leaving a legacy in both roles.
Continue ReadingErich Topp
German admiral and U-boat commander
Born
July 2nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 19 years ago — 91 years old
Served as a commander of U-boats during World War II. Achieved significant success in naval warfare against Allied shipping. Participated in multiple successful patrols in the Atlantic, contributing to the effectiveness of the German submarine campaign. After the war, Topp remained active in naval affairs and wrote about his experiences in the U-boat service.
Continue ReadingJames Rizzi
Painter and illustrator of vibrant art
Born
October 5th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2011 13 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1950, a prominent American painter and illustrator became widely recognized for colorful, joyful depictions of urban life, primarily in New York City. Rizzi developed a unique style characterized by intricate details and bold colors, creating 3D artworks and animations that captured architectural features of cities. His work gained popularity in the 1980s, making bold statements about cityscapes alongside themes of love and community. Rizzi’s pieces were featured in numerous exhibitions and are held in various prestigious collections. He also contributed designs for large public projects, including the famous 'Rizzi House' in Germany, which showcased his signature style on a grand scale.
Continue Reading