Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben
Prussian-American military officer
Born
Died
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
United States
Links & References
A Prussian military officer played a critical role in training the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Arriving in America in 1777, introduced rigorous military drills and discipline, which significantly improved the army's effectiveness. Appointed as Inspector General, implemented reforms that enhanced tactical operations. Played a key role at the Valley Forge winter encampment, where training led to notable successes in subsequent battles. Continued to serve the newly formed United States Army until retirement.
Trained the Continental Army at Valley Forge
Authored the 'Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States'
Served as Inspector General of the Continental Army
Other People Born on September 17th
Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar II
American politician and lawyer
Born
September 17th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1893 133 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 16th Secretary of the Interior. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Mississippi. Appointed as a Justice of the United States Supreme Court. Contributed to the development of policies and legislation in the areas of land management and Native American affairs.
Continue ReadingAgostinho Neto
Angolan poet and first president
Born
September 17th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1979 46 years ago — 56 years old
A poet and politician, this individual served as the first President of Angola from 1975 until 1979. Alongside political leadership, significant contributions to poetry highlighted themes of struggle and nationalism, solidifying a legacy in Angolan literature. The individual was involved in the anti-colonial movement and played a crucial role in shaping the independence of Angola from Portuguese rule. The presidency was marked by efforts to establish a socialist state amidst civil conflict.
Continue ReadingTomáš Berdych
Czech tennis player and Grand Slam finalist
Born
September 17th, 1985 40 years ago
Competed in professional tennis from 2002 to 2019. Achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 4 in 2015. Reached the finals of Wimbledon in 2010, marking a high point in a career that included multiple appearances in Grand Slam tournaments. Represented the Czech Republic in the Davis Cup, contributing to national victories in 2012 and 2013.
Continue ReadingHank Williams
American country music singer-songwriter
Born
September 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1953 73 years ago — 29 years old
An influential figure in country music, he gained prominence in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Williams wrote and recorded numerous hits that have become standards in the genre. His career was marked by personal struggles, which often reflected in his music. He died at a young age, but his legacy continued to grow long after his passing. Posthumously, several of his songs have been covered and celebrated by artists across multiple generations, solidifying his status as a pioneering talent in American music.
Continue ReadingJohn Ritter
Actor in 'Three's Company' and 'Problem Child'
Born
September 17th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2003 22 years ago — 54 years old
An American actor and producer, recognized primarily for roles in television and film. Starred in the sitcom 'Three's Company' from 1977 to 1984, which became a significant part of American pop culture. Portrayed the character of Jack Tripper, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Featured in the movie 'Problem Child' in 1990 and its sequel in 1991, which showcased comedic talent and further solidified a career in family-oriented entertainment. Won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1984 for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series.
Continue ReadingSophie Howard
Scottish footballer and defender
Born
September 17th, 1993 32 years ago
Played as a defender in women's football. Played for the Scottish national team and clubs including Glasgow City and West Ham United. Contributed to club successes in league competitions and earned caps representing Scotland in international matches.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 28th
Aires de Ornelas e Vasconcelos
Portuguese Archbishop of Angra
Born
September 18th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1880 145 years ago — 43 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Angra from 1894 until 1900. Contributed to the Catholic Church's administration and community engagement on the Azores islands. Played a significant role in church reforms during tenure. Focused on education and religious outreach, enhancing the church’s presence in local communities.
Continue ReadingʻAbdu'l-Bahá
Iranian religious leader and author
Born
May 23rd, 1844 181 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1921 104 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1844, this figure served as the leader of the Bahá'í Faith following the death of the founder. Significant contributions included extensive writings that outlined the principles of the faith. He traveled to various countries to promote religious unity, peace, and social justice. His efforts in the early 20th century helped shape the global Bahá'í community and its understanding of advocacy for equality and international cooperation.
Continue ReadingSidney Nolan
Australian painter famous for Ned Kelly series
Born
April 22nd, 1917 109 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1992 33 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1917, this Australian painter became renowned for exploring Australian themes through art. The Ned Kelly series remains a significant contribution, depicting the life of the infamous outlaw in a modernist style. His works often showcased a distinctive blend of abstraction and representational techniques. Throughout his career, he experimented with various mediums, including oils and lithographs, and received recognition both nationally and internationally. His career spanned several decades, leading to exhibitions in major galleries across Australia and abroad, effectively cementing a legacy within the world of art history.
Continue ReadingAthanasius Kircher
German priest and scholar, antiquarian
Born
May 2nd, 1601 425 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1680 345 years ago — 79 years old
A 17th-century German priest and scholar contributed significantly to various fields of knowledge, including physics, medicine, and linguistics. Kircher studied at the University of Würzburg and became a member of the Society of Jesus. He published numerous works throughout his lifetime, including 'Mundus Subterraneus', which detailed his theories on geology and volcanology. He also authored 'Arca Noe', tackling the biblical story of Noah's Ark while providing insights into natural history. Kircher established a museum in Rome that showcased many of his collections in archaeology and natural sciences and created one of the first European maps that depicted China.
Continue ReadingAleksander Hellat
Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
August 20th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1943 82 years ago — 62 years old
Born in Estonia in 1881, a prominent politician served as the sixth Minister of Foreign Affairs. Held the position from 1926 until 1927, contributing to the development of Estonia's foreign policy during the interwar period. The tenure included efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations and ensure national security for Estonia at a time of regional instability. Participated in various international negotiations, representing Estonia's interests on the global stage.
Continue ReadingOlene Walker
Utah's 15th Governor and attorney
Born
November 15th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 15th Governor of Utah from 2003 to 2005. Held positions as a member of the Utah House of Representatives and a member of the Utah Senate. Worked as an attorney prior to entering politics, focusing on issues related to public policy and governance. Contributed to local education initiatives and state policies regarding health and human services.
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