Jim Bridger

Fur trader and Western explorer

Jim Bridger - Fur trader and Western explorer
Born

March 17th, 1804
221 years ago

Died

July 17th, 1881
143 years ago — 77 years old

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

United States

Links & References

An American fur trader and explorer, known for significant contributions to the westward expansion of the United States during the 19th century. Bridger established various trading posts and was one of the first to explore and map the Great Salt Lake. He served as a guide for numerous expeditions, including those for the U.S. Army. His skills and knowledge of the Western territories made him a valuable resource, and he played a crucial role in helping settlers navigate the region. Bridger's extensive travels through the Rockies and the West contributed to the mapping and understanding of the American frontier.

Mapped the Great Salt Lake

Founded Fort Bridger

Served as a guide for U.S. Army expeditions

Other People Born on March 17th

Filemon Lagman

Filipino theoretician and activist
Born
March 17th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2001 24 years ago — 47 years old

An influential theoretician and activist in the Philippines, focused on labor rights and social issues. Served as a prominent leader in organizations advocating for workers' welfare. Contributed to various movements aimed at reforming labor laws and enhancing the rights of workers in the country. Engaged in dialogues and forums addressing issues faced by marginalized sectors, furthering the understanding of labor issues in the Philippines.

Continue Reading

Bobby Jones

Golfer, co-founder of The Masters
Born
March 17th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1971 53 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent amateur golfer and lawyer, contributed significantly to the sport in the early 20th century. Won the Grand Slam in 1930, a feat that involved winning all four major golf championships in a single calendar year. Co-founded The Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia, one of the most prestigious golf events in the world. Also involved in the establishment of the Augusta National Golf Club, which remains a key venue in professional golf.

Continue Reading

Daniel Sprong

Ice hockey player, NHL
Born
March 17th, 1997 28 years ago

Born in 1997, a Dutch ice hockey player has competed in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily as a forward. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the second round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, played for teams including the Penguins, Anaheim Ducks, and Washington Capitals. Contributed to teams with his offensive skills and shot accuracy, securing a place in the league during his early twenties.

Continue Reading

Rudolf Nureyev

renowned ballet dancer and choreographer
Born
March 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1993 32 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent ballet dancer and choreographer, achieved acclaim for technical brilliance and dramatic expression. Defected from the Soviet Union to the West in 1961, which marked a significant moment in the arts during the Cold War. Nureyev performed with major ballet companies, including the Royal Ballet and the Paris Opera Ballet. Collaborated with notable figures in the dance world, significantly influencing contemporary ballet through innovative choreography and interpretations of classic works.

Continue Reading

Toyotomi Hideyoshi

Japanese daimyō and unifier of Japan
Born
March 17th, 1537 488 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1598 426 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1537, a prominent daimyō in 16th century Japan, played a crucial role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period. Initially a peasant, gained recognition as a general under Oda Nobunaga. After Nobunaga's death, took control of his forces and continued the campaign to unify Japan. Established the political structure that would dominate Japanese governance and society for decades. Promoted cultural arts, including the tea ceremony, and encouraged the construction of Osaka Castle. Died in 1598, leaving a legacy that shaped the nation.

Continue Reading

Fred T. Mackenzie

Biologist and academic specializing in ecology
Born
March 17th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed to the field of biology with a focus on ecological studies and environmental science. Served as a professor at several universities, emphasizing the importance of scientific research in understanding ecosystems. Conducted extensive research on the effects of climate change and human activity on marine environments. Published numerous papers and co-authored influential texts in biological sciences.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 17th

Cheng Pei-pei

Chinese actress in classic films
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2024 0 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent actress in Hong Kong cinema, gained recognition through performances in classic martial arts films. Starred in 'Come Drink with Me' and 'The Lady Hermit', pivotal works in the genre. Contributed significantly to the rise of the female warrior archetype in films during the 1960s and 70s. In later years, participated in stage productions and continued to influence the film industry.

Continue Reading

Leo IV

Pope and religious leader of the Church
Died
July 17th, 855 1169 years ago — None years old

Papal leadership began in 847. Led the Catholic Church during a tumultuous period characterized by invasions and political instability. Undertook significant efforts to reinforce the defenses of Rome against the Saracens, notably enhancing its fortifications. Initiated the construction of the new walls of the city, known as the Leonine Wall, which provided greater security. Presided over important ecclesiastical decisions and maintained the church's influence despite external threats. Died on July 17, 855.

Continue Reading

Ekaterina Alexandrovskaya

Pair skater, World Junior Champion
Born
2000 25 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2020 4 years ago — 20 years old

Competed in pair skating for Australia after switching from representing Russia. Achieved significant success as part of a competitive figure skating partnership. Won the World Junior Figure Skating Championships in 2017. Excelled in international competitions, contributing to the visibility of pair skating in Australia. Represented Australia at various global events, including the ISU Grand Prix series.

Continue Reading

George William Russell

Irish author, poet, painter, and editor
Born
April 10th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1935 89 years ago — 68 years old

An influential figure in the Irish literary revival, contributed significantly to literature through poetry, essays, and artistic endeavors. Edited the Irish nationalist newspaper 'The Irish Homestead' and published numerous works including 'The Story of Ireland' and 'The House of the Titans'. Associated with the Dublin and Belfast literary circles, engaged in the promotion of Irish culture and folklore. Established a distinct style that merged mysticism with realism, becoming an emblematic figure of the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Jean-Charles Chapais

Canadian politician, 1st Minister of Agriculture
Born
December 2nd, 1811 213 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1885 139 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1811, a prominent Canadian farmer and politician played a significant role in the early development of agricultural policy in Canada. Served as the first Minister of Agriculture, focusing on promoting agricultural development and supporting farmers' interests. Held various political positions throughout a career dedicated to enhancing the agricultural landscape in Canada during a time of growth and change.

Continue Reading

Lillian Hoban

American author and illustrator of children's books
Born
May 18th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1998 26 years ago — 73 years old

An author and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Published a number of popular books, with a significant emphasis on themes of friendship, family, and discovery. Collaborated with her husband on several projects, contributing illustrations that complemented engaging narratives. Worked extensively with various publishing houses to bring stories to life through vivid illustrations. ''Arthur's Family'' and ''The Two of Them'' represent milestones in her career, showcasing the combination of visual artistry and compelling storytelling. Her contributions have been recognized in the realm of children's literature over several decades.

Continue Reading