Ismail I of Iran

Shah of Persia and founder of Safavid dynasty

Ismail I of Iran - Shah of Persia and founder of Safavid dynasty
Born

July 17th, 1487
538 years ago

Died

1524
501 years ago — 37 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Iran

Links & References

Birth occurred in 1487. Ascended to power at the age of 14, establishing the Safavid dynasty in Persia. Implemented Shia Islam as the state religion, thus shaping the religious landscape of Iran. Conquered vast territories and solidified Persian identity through cultural and religious reforms. Defeated rival forces, including the Uzbeks and Ottomans, which expanded the Safavid realm. Engaged in significant battles to secure territorial claims while fostering trade and arts.

Established the Safavid dynasty

Implemented Shia Islam as state religion

Expanded Persia's territorial claims

Other People Born on July 17th

Ephraim Shay

Engineer who designed Shay locomotive
Born
July 17th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1916 109 years ago — 76 years old

An engineer developed the Shay locomotive, a type of steam engine that proved vital for logging and freight transport on mountainous terrain. This innovative design featured a unique gear-driven system, providing better traction and stability on steep grades. The Shay locomotive became widely used in the timber industry, significantly impacting the efficiency of lumber transport. The manufacturing of Shay locomotives continued long after the initial design, with production spanning several decades.

Continue Reading

Andre Adams

New Zealand cricketer, domestic champion
Born
July 17th, 1975 50 years ago

A former cricketer played as a right-arm fast-medium bowler and a lower-order batsman. Represented New Zealand at the international level, with notable participation in Test and One Day Internationals. Achieved significant success in domestic cricket, primarily for teams like Canterbury and Auckland, winning multiple domestic titles. Contributed to Canterbury's success in the 2008-2009 HRV Cup and the 2010-2011 Plunket Shield, showcasing exceptional bowling skills and performance in various formats of the game.

Continue Reading

Quino

Cartoonist and creator of Mafalda
Born
July 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

A cartoonist gained recognition for creating the beloved character Mafalda, an inquisitive girl known for her critique of society and politics. Mafalda first appeared in 1964 and became a cultural icon in Argentina and beyond. The artist's work often reflected themes of social justice, political commentary, and human rights through humor and satire. Graphic works reached international audiences and were translated into many languages, contributing to the global appreciation of comic art. This cartoonist received numerous accolades for contributions to art and literature.

Continue Reading

Mark Burnett

Television producer of reality shows
Born
July 17th, 1960 65 years ago

Mark Burnett is an English-American screenwriter and producer. Burnett produced several successful reality television series, including 'Survivor', 'The Apprentice', and 'The Voice'. Having started his career in television in the 1990s, he became a key figure in introducing reality TV to mainstream audiences. His work has garnered numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards and the Producers Guild of America Award. Burnett has influenced the landscape of entertainment through the creation and production of shows that have achieved significant ratings and cultural impact.

Continue Reading

Luigi Chinetti

Race car driver and Ferrari team manager
Born
July 17th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1994 30 years ago — 93 years old

An Italian-American race car driver, achieved success in sports car racing during the mid-20th century. Won the 1949 24 Hours of Le Mans, driving a Ferrari 166MM. Played a significant role in popularizing Ferrari in the United States, serving as the first official Ferrari importer. Established the North American Racing Team (NART), which contributed to Ferrari's success in North America during the 1960s.

Continue Reading

Cory Doctorow

Author and activist focused on digital rights
Born
July 17th, 1971 54 years ago

An author and activist, contributed extensively to discussions on technology, copyright, and digital rights. Founded the website Boing Boing and served as a co-editor of the site. Wrote several novels, including 'Little Brother' and 'Homeland', which explore the implications of surveillance and authoritarianism in the digital age. Engaged in advocacy for open access and progressive copyright reform through various organizations. Regularly speaks on issues surrounding technology and civil liberties.

Continue Reading