Infanta Isabel

Duchess of Burgundy

Infanta Isabel - Duchess of Burgundy
Born

1397
628 years ago

Died

December 17th, 1471
553 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Spain

Links & References

Born into the royal family of Castile, held the title of Duchess of Burgundy through marriage. Played a key role in the political alliances between Spain and the Burgundian Netherlands. Her marriage strategically strengthened ties that influenced the power dynamics in Europe during the late 15th century. As a significant figure in the Habsburg dynasty, contributed to the lineage that would shape European politics for generations.

Married Philip the Bold, Duke of Burgundy

Established strong dynastic ties between Spain and Burgundy

Other People Who Died on December 17th

Ralph Coates

English international footballer
Born
April 26th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2010 14 years ago — 64 years old

Played as a winger in professional football. Started the career at local clubs before joining Burnley in 1963. Made significant contributions to the team, helping them secure the FA Cup in 1962. Later transferred to Tottenham Hotspur, where achievements included winning the UEFA Cup in 1972. Represented England at the international level, earning multiple caps during the 1970s.

Continue Reading

Eddie Acuff

American actor in 'Davy Crockett'
Born
June 3rd, 1903 121 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1956 68 years ago — 53 years old

Acuff was an American actor active in film and television during the mid-20th century. He appeared in numerous westerns and comedies, often taking on character roles. Notably, Acuff featured in Disney's miniseries 'Davy Crockett' as well as other films such as 'The Caddy' and 'Davy Crockett: King of the Wild Frontier'. His works were characterized by a blend of humor and adventure, contributing to the popular culture of the time.

Continue Reading

Pope Gregory VIII

Pope during the Third Crusade
Born
1100 925 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1187 837 years ago — 87 years old

Elected as pope in 1187, this religious leader played a significant role during the Third Crusade. His papacy was marked by efforts to rally support for Christian forces against Muslim armies. The pontiff issued the papal bull 'Audita Tremendi' to encourage European monarchs to unite for the campaign to reclaim Jerusalem following its capture by Saladin. His tenure as pope lasted only a few months until his death later that year.

Continue Reading

Irene di Spilimbergo

Renaissance poet and painter
Born
October 17th, 1538 486 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1559 465 years ago — 21 years old

Born in 1538, a poet and painter emerged as a notable figure of the Italian Renaissance. Contributions include not only poetry but also painting, distinguishing herself in both fields. The body of work reflects the cultural richness of the Renaissance period, highlighting the interplay between artistic expression and poetic narrative. Achievements in literature and art facilitated recognition among contemporary artists and poets, contributing to the vibrant artistic landscape of the era.

Continue Reading

Dave Smith

Baseball player and coach, two-time All-Star
Born
1955 70 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2008 16 years ago — 53 years old

Played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball for the Houston Astros from 1980 to 1992. Made significant contributions to the team and was recognized for outstanding performances. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, providing guidance to aspiring players. Inducted into the Texas League Hall of Fame for contributions to the sport.

Continue Reading

Simón Bolívar

Venezuelan military leader and politician
Born
July 24th, 1783 241 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1830 194 years ago — 47 years old

Born in Venezuela, this figure played a crucial role in the Latin American independence movement against Spanish colonial rule. He led military campaigns across several countries, including Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, achieving victories that established independence for those nations. A key advocate for creating a unified Latin America, he also served as the second president of Venezuela. His vision extended to the establishment of a confederate union among the liberated countries, although this idea faced significant challenges.

Continue Reading