Empress Dowager Hu of Northern Wei

Empress Dowager of Northern Wei dynasty

Empress Dowager Hu of Northern Wei - Empress Dowager of Northern Wei dynasty
Born

None
None years ago

Died

May 17th, 528
1497 years ago — None years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

China

Links & References

Ruled as the Empress Dowager during the Northern Wei dynasty in China. Became regent after the death of her husband, Emperor Xiaowen. Played a significant role in promoting Buddhism within the court and influencing political decisions. Her reign was marked by the consolidation of power and the establishment of the Northern Wei as a major dynasty in northern China.

Served as regent after Emperor Xiaowen's death

Promoted Buddhism within the Northern Wei dynasty

Consolidated power during her regency

Other People Who Died on May 17th

Armand-Emmanuel de Vignerot du Plessis

French general and politician, Duc de Richelieu
Born
September 25th, 1766 259 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1822 203 years ago — 55 years old

Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of France during the Restoration period. Held the position of general, taking on various military responsibilities. Managed significant political changes, including the navigation of post-Napoleonic France. Engaged in revitalizing the French economy and established relationships with foreign powers.

Continue Reading

Matthew Parker

English Archbishop and reformer
Born
August 6th, 1504 521 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1575 450 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1559 until death, leading the Church of England during the Elizabethan era. Oversaw the establishment of the Book of Common Prayer and supported religious reform in line with Protestant principles. Played a vital role in the Elizabethan Religious Settlement, which shaped the direction of the Church of England. Contributed to the development of Anglican theology and church governance, while also engaging in scholarly work, including the editing of early texts and biblical manuscripts.

Continue Reading

John C. Breckinridge

American general and Vice President
Born
January 16th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1875 150 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the 14th Vice President of the United States from 1857 to 1861. Preceded in office by William R. King, assumed office under President James Buchanan. Breckinridge was a member of the Democratic Party and had previously represented Kentucky in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate. During the American Civil War, served as a general in the Confederate Army, leading troops in several battles. After the war, resided in Cuba and later returned to practice law.

Continue Reading

Sandro Botticelli

Italian painter, Birth of Venus
Born
1445 580 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1510 515 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent Italian painter of the Early Renaissance, renowned for evocative and graceful works that depict mythological and religious themes. Famous paintings include 'The Birth of Venus' and 'Primavera,' showcasing a mastery of line and color that became highly influential in the art world. His works reflect the ideals of beauty and nature blending human emotion with divine representation. Botticelli's artistic style was characterized by linear grace and a delicate harmony of forms, positioning him as a significant figure in Renaissance art, during which he was associated with the Medici family and other influential patrons.

Continue Reading

Donald Coggan

English archbishop and leader in the Church
Born
October 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2000 25 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1974 to 1980. Played a significant role in the Church of England during a time of social change. Contributed to discussions on interfaith dialogue and the role of the church in society. Involved in various initiatives addressing moral and ethical issues faced by the community. Authored several theological works and served on international church committees.

Continue Reading

Jorge Rafael Videla

Argentinian general and President
Born
August 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the 43rd President of Argentina from 1976 to 1981 following a military coup. Led the country during the Dirty War, a period characterized by widespread human rights abuses. Implemented policies aimed at suppressing dissent and promoting economic reforms. Oversaw actions that resulted in the disappearance and torture of thousands.

Continue Reading