James IV of Scotland

Scottish King and patron of culture

James IV of Scotland - Leaders & Politicians born March 17th, 1473
Born
Died

1513
512 years ago — 40 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Scotland

Links & References

Ascended to the Scottish throne in 1488, ruling until 1513. Played a significant role in the cultural development of Scotland, fostering the arts and education. Established alliances with France through marriage to Margaret Tudor, which influenced subsequent English and Scottish relations. Led Scottish forces against England in the Battle of Flodden in 1513, where he died. His reign was characterized by efforts to modernize the kingdom and promote trade and agriculture.

Strengthened royal authority in Scotland

Patronized artists and poets

Died in the Battle of Flodden

Other People Born on March 17th

Claressa Shields

Boxer and mixed martial artist with titles
Born
March 17th, 1995 30 years ago

Claressa Shields achieved recognition as a professional boxer and mixed martial artist. Shields became the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing, securing victories in both the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games. In professional boxing, she gained attention by unifying the middleweight titles, becoming a world champion across multiple weight classes. Transitioning to mixed martial arts, Shields made her debut in 2021, continuing to compete at a high level. Her accomplishments have positioned her as one of the most successful boxers in women's history.

Continue Reading

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

Bangladeshi politician, 1st President
Born
March 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1975 50 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent figure in Bengali politics, leadership began in the 1940s as a member of the All-India Muslim Students Federation. Increased influence through association with the Awami League, advocating for Bengali rights. In 1970, the Awami League won a majority in Pakistan's national elections. Played a crucial role in the independence movement, leading to Bangladesh's liberation from Pakistan in 1971. Served as the first President from 1971 to 1972 and later as the Prime Minister until 1975. Assassinated in a military coup in January 1975, his legacy remains pivotal in Bangladesh's history.

Continue Reading

Lillian Yarbo

Comedienne and singer from vaudeville
Born
March 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 91 years old

Gained prominence as a comedienne, dancer, and singer in the entertainment industry. Participated in the vaudeville circuit, showcasing talent across numerous performances. Transitioned to film and television, contributing to the legacy of early American comedy and musical genres. Worked in various notable productions that highlighted versatility and dedication to the craft.

Continue Reading

Penelope Lively

English author of acclaimed novels
Born
March 17th, 1933 92 years ago

An English author, she achieved prominence with literary works that explore themes of memory, nostalgia, and the passage of time. Prominent novels include 'Moon Tiger,' which won the Booker Prize in 1987, and 'The Photograph.' Lively's works often blend the personal with historical narratives, creating layered stories that reflect on the intricacies of life. In addition to novels, she authored children's books and essays, further showcasing her versatility in writing. Her contributions to literature have earned her a place among notable contemporary authors.

Continue Reading

Stephen Gately

Irish singer-songwriter and actor
Born
March 17th, 1976 49 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2009 16 years ago — 33 years old

Gately gained fame as a member of the pop group Boyzone, which formed in 1993. The group achieved significant success throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, with multiple chart-topping singles and albums in the UK and Ireland. Gately also pursued a solo career, releasing his debut album in 2000. In addition to music, he participated in stage productions, including a role in the Dublin production of 'The Pirates of Penzance'. His contributions to the entertainment industry lasted until his untimely death in 2009.

Continue Reading

Myrlie Evers-Williams

Journalist and civil rights activist
Born
March 17th, 1933 92 years ago

A prominent journalist and civil rights activist, this individual dedicated a significant portion of life to the fight for racial equality and social justice. After the assassination of her husband, Medgar Evers, in 1963, advocacy for civil rights intensified. She served as the chairman of the NAACP, becoming the first woman to hold this position. The individual also contributed to numerous publications, focusing on issues of race and justice, and was instrumental in the formation of various community and civil rights organizations. In 1996, she received the National Civil Rights Museum’s Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting contributions to the civil rights movement.

Continue Reading