Dorgon
Chinese prince and regent
Born in 1612, served as a prominent prince during the early Qing dynasty. Acted as regent for the young Shunzhi Emperor after the fall of the Ming dynasty. Played a crucial role in consolidating power for the Qing dynasty in China, leading military campaigns to expand territory and secure borders. Influenced political affairs and aided in the establishment of Qing authority over the Han Chinese populace. Died in 1650.
Served as regent for the Shunzhi Emperor
Consolidated power for the Qing dynasty
Led military campaigns during early Qing rule
Other People Born on November 17th
Zanobi Strozzi
Italian painter of Renaissance artworks
Born
November 17th, 1412 613 years ago
Died
1468 557 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1412, contributed significantly to the Italian Renaissance through painting. Operated in Florence and was part of the cultural movement that emphasized realism and humanism. Trained under prominent artists and influenced future generations with a distinct style. Many works remain influential in art history, showcasing religious themes, detailed facial expressions, and innovative use of color. Engaged with various artistic techniques contributing to the transition from medieval to modern art.
Continue ReadingLee Strasberg
Acting teacher and method acting pioneer
Born
November 17th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1982 43 years ago — 80 years old
Prominent acting teacher and director developed the method acting technique, significantly influencing American theater and film. Co-founded the Actors Studio in 1947, providing a transformative platform for actors. Mentored numerous notable actors, contributing to their development and success. Held crucial roles in films including 'The Godfather Part II' and 'The Last Tycoon', showcasing his talents in both acting and direction. His legacy continues to shape the craft of acting in contemporary cinema.
Continue ReadingEugene Wigner
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 17th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1995 30 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Hungary, contributed extensively to nuclear physics and quantum mechanics. Wigner developed the theory of symmetry operations in quantum mechanics and worked on the Manhattan Project during World War II. Later, he played a significant role in the development of nuclear reactors and conducted extensive research on the behavior of materials under radiation. Wigner received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1963 for contributions to the understanding of the atomic nucleus, particularly concerning nuclear symmetry and the role of mathematical structures in quantum mechanics.
Continue ReadingMatthew Spring
Footballer with successful club career
Born
November 17th, 1979 46 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Career included spells at clubs like Watford, Luton Town, and Brighton & Hove Albion. Contributed to Luton Town's promotion to the Championship during the 2004-2005 season. Also had notable performances in league and cup competitions.
Continue ReadingAndrew L. Harris
American General and Ohio Governor
Born
November 17th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1915 110 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a general in the Union Army during the Civil War, achieving the rank of brigadier general. Served as the 44th Governor of Ohio from 1886 to 1889. Focused on supporting veterans and improving infrastructure during the governorship. Held the position of Ohio Secretary of State before his tenure as governor.
Continue ReadingJacques MacDonald
French general and military leader
Born
November 17th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1840 185 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a general in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Participated in various military campaigns across Europe under Napoleon Bonaparte, contributing to significant victories. Played a crucial role in the Battle of Austerlitz and the invasion of Russia. Held the title of Duke of Taranto and continued military service after Napoleon's fall, representing France in the royalist army.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Henry Maitland Wilson
English Field Marshal and 1st Baron Wilson
Born
September 5th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1964 60 years ago — 83 years old
Served as a British Army officer during World War I and World War II. Held prominent positions, including Commander of the British 8th Army during the Second Battle of El Alamein. Led Allied forces in the Mediterranean theater and contributed to significant military strategies. Became Chief of the Imperial General Staff in 1944, overseeing British military operations.
Continue ReadingBarry Lane
Professional Golfer with numerous titles
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2022 2 years ago — 62 years old
A professional golfer who enjoyed a successful career primarily in the European Tour and Champions Tour. Achieved notable success in the 1990s and 2000s, securing multiple tournament victories. Lane had a reputation for consistency on the course and represented England internationally, including participation in the World Cup of Golf. His career spanned over three decades, during which he competed against many top players in the sport.
Continue ReadingMargaret, Countess of Anjou
Noblewoman and Countess of Anjou
Born
1273 752 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1299 725 years ago — 26 years old
Born in the 13th century, held the title of Countess of Anjou through marriage. Became the mother of notable descendants who played significant roles in the European aristocracy. Contributed to alliances and political relations between various noble houses. The marriage strengthened connections between England and France during a tumultuous period in history.
Continue ReadingOttokar III of Styria
Duke of Styria and noted ruler
Born
1124 901 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1164 860 years ago — 40 years old
Ruled as Duke of Styria from 1122 until death in 1164. Established the foundations for the later Duchy of Styria. Strengthened the power of the duchy and engaged in territorial expansion during the period. Played a significant role in regional politics and alliances within the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingThomas Erastus
Swiss physician and theologian
Born
September 7th, 1524 501 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1583 441 years ago — 59 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and theology during the Reformation. Practiced as a physician in Basel, emphasizing the importance of empirical observation in medical practice. Engaged in theological debates, particularly in relation to the authority of the church and the role of civil government in ecclesiastical matters. Authored works that sought to bridge the gap between Protestant doctrine and civil authority, advocating for the separation of church and state functions. Influence extended into discussions on the intersection of faith and reason, shaping early thoughts on the integration of scientific inquiry within Christian contexts.
Continue ReadingAleksis Kivi
Finnish author and playwright - Seven Brothers
Born
October 10th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1872 152 years ago — 38 years old
An influential Finnish author and playwright, this individual wrote primarily in Finnish, contributing significantly to Finnish literature. Best recognized for the classic novel 'Seven Brothers', the work is notable for its depiction of rural life and the Finnish identity. This writer also penned several plays, such as 'Kullervo' and 'The Finnish Girl', which explored themes of folklore and societal issues. Through these writings, the use of the Finnish language in literature gained momentum during a time when the language was underrepresented.
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