Donna Summer
Singer-songwriter with disco hits
Born
1948
78 years ago
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent singer-songwriter rose to fame in the 1970s as a defining voice of the disco era. Achieved mainstream success with hits like 'Love to Love You Baby', 'Bad Girls', and 'Last Dance'. Received multiple Grammy Awards and achieved commercial success with numerous best-selling albums. Contributed to the transformation of pop music with a unique blend of disco, soul, and rock influences. Continued to perform and release music until death in 2012.
Released the hit 'Last Dance'
Won five Grammy Awards
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Other People Who Died on May 17th
Panagis Tsaldaris
Greek politician, Prime Minister of Greece
Born
May 17th, 1868 158 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1936 90 years ago — 68 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Greece during significant political periods. Held office at different times from 1921 to 1924 and again from 1933 to 1935. Participated extensively in the political landscape of Greece during the interwar years, shaping policies and governance. Elected multiple times to the Hellenic Parliament, contributed to legislative developments and national discussions. Engaged in various political movements and alignments reflecting the challenges faced by Greece during this era.
Continue ReadingJohn Deere
Blacksmith and founder of Deere & Company
Born
February 7th, 1804 222 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1886 140 years ago — 82 years old
A blacksmith and businessman established a brand recognized for agricultural machinery. Pioneered the creation of a plow that efficiently tilled the tough Midwestern soil, leading to significant advancements in farming techniques. Founded Deere & Company in 1837, which became one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. The business model emphasized high-quality products and customer service, contributing to the growth of modern agriculture.
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 ReadingAl-Qa'im bi-Amr Allah
Fatimid Caliph during the 10th century
Died
May 17th, 946 1080 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the Fatimid Caliphate in 934 and ruled until death in 946. Oversaw the period of consolidation in the empire and maintained control over regions including North Africa and parts of the Middle East. His rule marked efforts to establish Ismaili Shi'ism within the territories governed by the Fatimids, promoting religious activities and political stability.
Continue ReadingMichel-Jean Sedaine
French playwright and librettist
Born
July 4th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1797 229 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in the French theatre of the 18th century, contributed to the genre of comic opera. Wrote several successful plays and librettos, collaborating with composers like François Andrieux. Works include the comédie lyrique 'Zémire et Azor' and the play 'L'Épreuve'. His writings reflected the artistic movements of the time and showcased his ability to blend humor with social commentary.
Continue ReadingLiu Jianfeng
Chinese warlord during the Five Dynasties
Died
May 17th, 896 1130 years ago — None years old
During the Five Dynasties period, one warlord played a significant role in regional politics and military conflicts. This figure seized power and ruled with authority over the region, establishing a foothold amid the fragmentation of the Tang Dynasty's influence. The reign extended through tactical warfare and alliances with other military leaders. Despite the chaotic political environment, the warlord maintained control over territories and engaged in numerous battles, solidifying a legacy in Chinese history through military prowess and governance.
Continue Reading