Janez Drnovšek
Economist and 2nd President of Slovenia
Served as the second President of Slovenia from 2002 to 2007 after a prominent career in politics and economics. Held the position of Prime Minister for two non-consecutive terms, first from 1992 to 1993 and again from 1996 to 2000. Played a significant role in Slovenia’s transition to a market economy in the 1990s and its integration into the European Union. Involved in various international diplomatic efforts, advocating for peace and cooperation in the Balkans. His presidency was marked by a focus on social issues and environmental sustainability.
Served as the 2nd President of Slovenia
Held two terms as Prime Minister of Slovenia
Facilitated Slovenia's entry into the EU
Other People Born on May 17th
Mayte Martínez
Spanish middle-distance runner
Born
May 17th, 1976 49 years ago
Competed in middle-distance events, specializing in the 800 meters. Participated in multiple international competitions including the Olympics and World Championships. Achieved significant success in European competitions, earning medals and recognition for performances. Excelled in the 800 meters, establishing personal bests that placed among the top tier of athletes in the event.
Continue ReadingMauro Martini
Italian race car driver
Born
May 17th, 1964 61 years ago
Competed in various racing championships, including Formula 1. Achieved notable success in sports car racing, particularly with the Nissan and Toyota teams. Participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, earning podium finishes. During the 1990s, contributed to the development of race cars as a test driver.
Continue ReadingMatt Ryan
American football quarterback 2016 MVP
Born
May 17th, 1985 40 years ago
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the Atlanta Falcons. Achieved significant success, including leading the Falcons to Super Bowl LI in 2017. Received the NFL Most Valuable Player award in 2016 after an outstanding season where he threw for 9,117 yards and 69 touchdowns over two seasons. Named to multiple Pro Bowls and recognized for consistent performance and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingAlbert
Duke of Prussia
Born
May 17th, 1490 535 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1568 457 years ago — 77 years old
Held the title of Duke of Prussia from 1525 until his death in 1568. Founded the Duchy of Prussia, which marked the establishment of a Protestant state. Oversaw the transition from a monastic state under the Teutonic Knights to a secular duchy. Engaged in political and military affairs during the Reformation period.
Continue ReadingDerek Hough
Dancer and choreographer on 'DWTS'
Born
May 17th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, this individual became a prominent dancer, choreographer, and actor. Gained recognition as a professional dancer on 'Dancing with the Stars', earning multiple Emmy Awards for choreography. Additionally, appeared in stage productions including 'Footloose' and 'Burn the Floor'. Involved in music, releasing singles and participating in tours that showcased dance and performance skills.
Continue ReadingSaul Adler
Microbiologist and parasitologist
Born
May 17th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1966 60 years ago — 70 years old
A Belarusian-English microbiologist and parasitologist. Conducted significant research on the life cycles of several parasitic diseases. Contributed to studies on the epidemiology and treatment methods of various parasitic infections, particularly those affecting humans. Engaged in academic work and published numerous papers in scientific journals, often focusing on the effects of parasites on health.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 23rd
Al-Walid I
Umayyad caliph and builder of mosques
Died
February 23rd, 715 1310 years ago — None years old
Served as the Umayyad caliph from 705 to 715. Expanded the caliphate to its greatest territorial extent, stretching from the Iberian Peninsula in the west to India in the east. Focused on administrative reforms and infrastructure development, overseeing the construction of many significant architectural projects, including the Great Mosque of Damascus. Promoted the spread of Islam through military conquests and outreach efforts.
Continue ReadingL. S. Lowry
English painter with industrial scenes
Born
1887 139 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1976 49 years ago — 89 years old
An English painter focused on depicting industrial landscapes, urban scenes, and working-class life in the 20th century. Best recognized for works featuring matchstick men set against the backdrop of factories and mills. This style uniquely captured the essence of industrial towns in England, particularly in Lancashire. In a career spanning more than five decades, produced thousands of paintings and drawings. Gained considerable acclaim and continues to be a significant figure in British art history.
Continue ReadingAlice Herz-Sommer
Pianist and educator, Holocaust survivor
Born
November 26th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 110 years old
Born in Prague, this individual was a talented pianist and regarded as one of the last surviving Holocaust survivors. During World War II, this person was imprisoned in a concentration camp but survived by playing music, which became a source of hope and resilience. After the war, a dedicated career in music pedagogy and performance followed. This person relocated to London, where contributions to music education took shape. Through a blend of performance and teaching, significant efforts were made to share the power of music with future generations. Recognition of life's challenges and the ability to find joy in music characterized this individual's outlook.
Continue ReadingJames Aldridge
Journalist and author, wrote 'The Sea and the Jungle'
Born
July 10th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 96 years old
Worked as a journalist and author, producing several influential works. Wrote 'The Sea and the Jungle' which reflects experiences in the Amazon rainforest. Contributed articles to various publications, providing insight into issues ranging from war to culture. A significant figure in the literary world, highlighted the relationship between nature and humanity.
Continue ReadingHerbert Howells
English organist and composer
Born
October 17th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1983 42 years ago — 90 years old
An English organist and composer specialized in choral music and organ compositions. Served as a Professor of Music at the University of Bristol and worked as an organist at various churches, including St John's College, Cambridge. Composed significant works in the English choral tradition, with a focus on sacred music. Contributed to the development of English music in the 20th century through both performance and composition.
Continue ReadingIsabel of France
Queen consort of England
Born
1225 801 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1270 755 years ago — 45 years old
Married to Edward I of England, constructively participated in political and social matters during the late 13th century. The union produced several children who would continue notable lineages. After the death of her husband, played a significant role in the English court and supported the interests of her offspring. Passed away in 1270 in England.
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