Elise Mertens
Professional tennis player, Australian Open champion
A Belgian tennis player reached the top of the Women's Tennis Association singles rankings. Achieved significant success in doubles, winning multiple Grand Slam titles. Secured the Australian Open women's doubles title in 2019 alongside her partner. Represented Belgium in Fed Cup competitions and consistently participated in international tournaments throughout the career.
Won the Australian Open women's doubles title in 2019
Achieved WTA singles ranking of No. 1
Won multiple WTA doubles titles
Other People Born on November 17th
Angelika Machinek
Glider pilot and world champion
Born
November 17th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 49 years old
A glider pilot achieved significant success in competitive soaring. Won multiple championships, including the Women's World Gliding Championships. Competed at various international events, showcasing skills in glider navigation and performance. Contributed to the sport through mentorship and promoting soaring activities globally.
Continue ReadingShelby Foote
Historian and Civil War author
Born
November 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2005 20 years ago — 88 years old
An American historian and author focused on the American Civil War, produced a comprehensive three-volume narrative titled 'The Civil War: A Narrative'. This work provided detailed accounts of the battles, politicians, and personal stories of the era. Served as a consultant for Ken Burns' documentary series 'The Civil War', which brought renewed attention to the period and its complexities. Wrote novels and essays, contributing to literary discussions surrounding the Civil War and American history.
Continue ReadingSoichiro Honda
Engineer, co-founder of Honda Motor Co.
Born
November 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 84 years old
An engineer and businessman, co-founded Honda Motor Company in 1948. Under leadership, Honda grew from a motorcycle manufacturer to a leading global automaker. Introduced innovative technologies and fuel-efficient vehicles, contributing to the expansion of the automotive industry. Developed the Honda Civic and Accord, which became iconic models and achieved widespread popularity. Honda was awarded several honorary degrees and industry accolades throughout the career.
Continue ReadingTerry Rand
American basketball player
Born
November 17th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
Played college basketball at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in the early 1970s. Contributed to the team winning the NCAA Championship in 1971. Had a professional career that included playing for various teams in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and later in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Following retirement from playing, focused on coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Continue ReadingPark Han-byul
South Korean model and actress
Born
November 17th, 1984 41 years ago
Born in 1984, this individual began a career in modeling before transitioning to acting. Gained recognition in the South Korean entertainment industry for performances in film and television. Featured prominently in the drama series 'Into the Fire' and appeared in the film 'The Last 2 Days'. Established a presence in modeling, securing various advertising campaigns. Continued to engage in acting projects throughout the 2010s and beyond.
Continue ReadingRoque González de Santa Cruz
Missionary and saint in Paraguay
Born
November 17th, 1576 449 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1628 397 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1576, dedicated work in Paraguay as a Jesuit missionary focused on evangelizing the indigenous populations. Established the first Jesuit reductions in the region aimed at protecting the Guarani people from enslavement and fostering education. He was martyred in 1628 while spreading the Christian faith among the tribes of the area. Canonized as a saint in 1988, he is remembered for his commitment to both faith and social justice.
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