Eleanor of Viseu
Portuguese queen and noblewoman
Married to King João II of Portugal, served as queen consort. Played a significant role in the affairs of the kingdom during the late 15th century. Managed the royal household and engaged in political matters, contributing to Portugal's affairs alongside her husband. Following the death of João II, took on responsibilities related to the royal family's legacy and maintained her influence within the court.
Served as queen consort to João II
Managed royal household affairs
Engaged in political matters
Other People Born on May 2nd
Tokugawa Hidetada
Japanese shōgun during Edo period
Born
May 2nd, 1579 446 years ago
Died
1632 393 years ago — 53 years old
Served as the second shōgun of the Tokugawa shogunate from 1605 to 1623. Oversaw the consolidation of power for the Tokugawa regime following the leadership of his father, Tokugawa Ieyasu. Maintained stability in Japan during the early Edo period and enforced policies that strengthened the shōgunate's control over the daimyos. Promoted the establishment of a centralized feudal system.
Continue ReadingHenry Hall
English bandleader and actor in film
Born
May 2nd, 1898 127 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1989 36 years ago — 91 years old
Born in England, this individual rose to prominence as a bandleader and composer, actively engaging audiences in the entertainment scene during the early to mid-20th century. He led the BBC Dance Orchestra, which gained popularity through radio broadcasts. His musical compositions contributed significantly to the British music landscape, while his performances showcased his talent in various film productions, enhancing the public's appreciation for his artistry. Alongside music, he displayed considerable skill in acting, particularly in cinema, where he appeared in several films that showcased his range and ability to connect with audiences.
Continue ReadingYongle Emperor of China
Chinese Emperor and Ming Dynasty ruler
Born
May 2nd, 1360 665 years ago
Died
1424 601 years ago — 64 years old
Ruled from 1402 to 1424 and was the third emperor of the Ming Dynasty. Launched the Yongle Encyclopedia, one of the largest works of its kind in history. Oversaw the construction of the Forbidden City in Beijing, which became the imperial palace. Expanded maritime exploration, commissioning voyages led by Zheng He to establish trade and diplomatic relations. Revamped the military and administrative structures of the empire, contributing to a period of stability and consolidation.
Continue ReadingElias Boudinot
Lawyer and politician, Continental Congress
Born
May 2nd, 1740 285 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1821 204 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in early American politics, served as the 10th President of the Continental Congress from 1782 to 1783. Boudinot played a significant role during the American Revolutionary War, advocating for independence and supporting the Continental Army. In addition to his political career, he was actively involved in the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions and held various positions within the state of New Jersey, including serving as a member of the New Jersey Legislative Council.
Continue ReadingEddie Collins
Baseball player and manager with accolades
Born
May 2nd, 1887 138 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1951 74 years ago — 63 years old
A distinguished baseball player and manager, excelled as a second baseman in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the Philadelphia Athletics and Chicago White Sox, achieving significant success during the early 20th century. Collected over 3,300 hits throughout a career spanning nearly three decades. Managed the Chicago White Sox after his playing career, contributing to the team's strategy and performance during a transformative period in baseball. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1949, reflecting a legacy of excellence in the sport.
Continue ReadingYasir 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on November 17th
Charles W. Chesnutt
American novelist and short story writer
Born
June 20th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1932 93 years ago — 74 years old
Chesnutt was an American writer primarily active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He wrote novels and short stories addressing issues of race and identity in the post-Civil War era. Major works include 'The Conjure Woman' and 'The Marrow of Tradition', which explore the African American experience. Chesnutt's works were among the first to offer a complex portrayal of black life in America, blending folklore and social commentary.
Continue ReadingJames Ferguson
Scottish astronomer and author of books
Born
April 25th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1776 249 years ago — 66 years old
Birth occurred in 1710 in Scotland. Ferguson specialized in astronomy and wrote several influential books on the subject. His notable works include 'Astronomy Explained Upon Sir Isaac Newton's Principles' and 'The Use of the Globes', which provided valuable insights into celestial mechanics and navigation. Ferguson also contributed to the popularization of astronomical concepts through lectures and demonstrations. He was an early advocate for the use of instruments in observational astronomy, and his writings helped educate the public about astronomical phenomena.
Continue ReadingEduard Tubin
Estonian composer and conductor
Born
June 18th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1982 43 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent Estonian composer and conductor, Tubin created a significant body of work that includes symphonies, concertos, and chamber music. His compositions reflect the influences of both folk melodies and Western classical traditions. Recognized for contributions to orchestral music, Tubin served as a conductor and played a pivotal role in promoting Estonian music. His works gained international attention and played an essential role in showcasing Estonian music heritage.
Continue ReadingSheilah Graham Westbrook
Actress and author of notable columns
Born
September 15th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 84 years old
An English-American actress and journalist, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Contributed to film and television, known for roles in 'The Love Boat' and 'The Big Combo'. Established a reputation as a gossip columnist in Hollywood, providing insights into the lives of stars. Authored several books, including memoirs and novels, reflecting personal experiences and observations in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingDavid Zeisberger
Czech-American missionary and clergyman
Born
April 11th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1808 217 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 ReadingPaul Derringer
Baseball player, 2-time All-Star pitcher
Born
October 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1987 38 years ago — 81 years old
Began a professional baseball career in 1926. Played primarily as a pitcher in Major League Baseball for teams such as the Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, and St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved significant success during the 1930s and 1940s, recognized for skillful pitching and strategic gameplay. Selected as an All-Star in 1943 and 1944. Retired from professional play after the 1945 season.
Continue Reading