Federico II Gonzaga

Duke of Mantua and renowned patron

Federico II Gonzaga - Leaders & Politicians born May 17th, 1500
Born
Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Italy

Links & References

Duke of Mantua from 1540 until death in 1546, held significant power in the Italian states during the Renaissance. Established Mantua as a cultural hub, fostering the arts and attracting notable figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Titian. Inherited the duchy and worked on strengthening its economy and military. Known for his contributions to the development of the arts and architecture in Mantua, including support for the construction of the Palazzo Te, a masterpiece of Mannerist architecture. Engaged in political alliances and conflicts, including involvement in the Franco-Italian Wars.

Served as Duke of Mantua from 1540 to 1546

Patronized artists like Titian and Andrea Mantegna

Promoted the construction of the Palazzo Te

Other People Born on May 17th

Archibald Cox

American lawyer and 31st Solicitor General
Born
May 17th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2004 22 years ago — 92 years old

Practiced law after graduating from Harvard Law School. Served as the 31st United States Solicitor General from 1961 to 1965, representing the federal government before the Supreme Court. Appointed as special prosecutor during the Watergate scandal, overseeing the investigation of the Nixon administration's role in the affair. His tenure included the critical moment known as the Saturday Night Massacre, when he was dismissed by President Nixon, which intensified public outcry and led to further investigations.

Continue Reading

Newton Moore

Australian politician, Premier of WA
Born
May 17th, 1870 156 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1936 89 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 8th Premier of Western Australia from 1910 to 1911. Represented the Liberal Party in the Western Australian Legislative Assembly. Contributed to the development of infrastructure in the state, including railways and roads. Played a significant role in the politics of Western Australia during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

A. J. Casson

Canadian painter of landscape art
Born
May 17th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1992 34 years ago — 93 years old

This individual contributed significantly to Canadian art as a landscape painter. Associated with the Group of Seven, a collective of artists dedicated to depicting the Canadian wilderness, this painter focused on capturing the essence of the Ontario countryside. Influenced by the natural beauty of Canada, the works feature bold colors and distinctive brushwork. This artist's career spanned several decades, with exhibitions showcasing the interplay of light and shadow in natural settings. The works continue to be celebrated for their representation of the Canadian landscape.

Continue Reading

Dietmar Schönherr

Actor and director in Spanish cinema
Born
May 17th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1926, this individual worked extensively in film and television in both Austria and Spain. A significant part of the career included leading roles in the popular Spanish television series 'Veterinarios' and 'El gran teatro del mundo.' In addition to acting, direction and screenwriting were also key elements of the professional life, contributing to multiple Spanish productions. The creative endeavors spanned several decades, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Dennis Hopper

Actor and director of 'Easy Rider'
Born
May 17th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2010 16 years ago — 74 years old

An American actor and director, contributed significantly to film and culture in the 1960s and 1970s. Directed and starred in the counterculture classic 'Easy Rider' in 1969, which became a landmark film in independent cinema. Continued to act in various films, including 'Blue Velvet' and 'Apocalypse Now'. Involved in visual art and photography, showcasing works in galleries. Received nominations and awards throughout his career, highlighting a profound connection to both acting and directing.

Continue Reading

Jason Bernard

American actor in 'In the Heat of the Night'
Born
May 17th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1996 29 years ago — 58 years old

An American actor, active during the late 20th century, featured prominently in film and television. Notable roles included appearances in the series 'In the Heat of the Night,' where significant contributions were made. Engaged in various theatre productions, showcasing talent across multiple genres. Participated in a range of roles that demonstrated versatility, gaining respect among peers and audiences alike.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 28th

Bruce Catton

American historian and author of Civil War works
Born
October 9th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1978 47 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent historian focused on the American Civil War, this individual gained recognition through a series of influential writings. The work 'A Stillness at Appomattox' earned a Pulitzer Prize in 1954. This author contributed significantly to the understanding of Civil War history through meticulous research and engaging narratives. Other notable works included 'Mr. Lincoln's Army' and 'The Civil War'.

Continue Reading

Adam Goldstein

DJ and music producer of electronic dance
Born
March 30th, 1973 53 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2009 16 years ago — 36 years old

A prominent figure in the electronic dance music scene, this keyboard player, DJ, and producer gained recognition for influential contributions to the genre. Gained popularity as DJ AM, performing at numerous high-profile events and venues, thereby shaping the culture of nightlife and dance music. Collaborated with acclaimed artists, producing tracks that blended various music styles and garnered mainstream success. Established a reputation for his innovative mixing techniques and engaging live performances, further enhancing the popularity of electronic music.

Continue Reading

Lorella Cedroni

Italian philosopher and theorist
Born
May 24th, 1961 65 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1961, this philosopher and theorist has contributed significantly to contemporary philosophical discussions, particularly in the realm of political theory and education. Her work often reflects on the relationship between philosophy and societal structures, examining how thought influences educational practices and civic engagement. She has engaged with various philosophical traditions and critiqued existing frameworks, promoting a deeper understanding of the complexities of modern life. Her scholarly articles and books provide insights into her philosophical stance and methodologies.

Continue Reading

Nelson Shanks

American painter and portrait artist
Born
December 23rd, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent American painter, historian, and educator, celebrated for contributions to the portrait genre. Shanks studied at the Art Students League of New York and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Notable works include commissioned portraits of various U.S. presidents and prominent figures. His teaching career encompassed roles at respected institutions, where he influenced emerging artists through comprehensive programs in classical techniques and art history. Shanks's approach combined traditional methods with modern sensibilities, shaping the understanding of portraiture in contemporary art.

Continue Reading

William Smith

Geologist and cartographer; created geological maps
Born
March 23rd, 1769 257 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1839 186 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed to the field of geology through the development of the first nationwide geological map of England, published in 1815. This work established the principle of faunal succession, enabling the identification of sedimentary rock layers based on the fossils they contained. Smith also worked on mapping the geology of the English countryside and introduced the concept of using fossils to correlate and date the strata. His methodologies laid the foundation for modern geological studies.

Continue Reading

Juan Gabriel

Mexican singer-songwriter and performer
Born
January 7th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent Mexican singer-songwriter excelled in the Latin music scene, recognized for a unique blend of pop and traditional Mexican music. Authored many popular songs that became classics in the Latin music genre. The debut studio album 'El Alma no Tiene Color' showcased talent and creativity, leading to a prolific career. Established a significant presence in the music industry by crafting heartfelt ballads and energetic cumbias. Achieved commercial success with over 100 million records sold worldwide. A notable figure in the music landscape until the end of life.

Continue Reading