John III Sobieski

King of Poland and military leader

John III Sobieski - King of Poland and military leader
Born

August 17th, 1629
396 years ago

Died

June 17th, 1696
329 years ago — 66 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

Poland

Links & References

Born in 1629, ascended to the throne of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1674. Led the Christian coalition during the Battle of Vienna in 1683, successfully defending Europe against the Ottoman Empire. His leadership during this decisive battle earned him recognition as a key figure in European history. Engaged in numerous military campaigns to secure and expand the territories of the Commonwealth. Oversaw a period of significant military and diplomatic activities aimed at strengthening Poland's position in Europe until his death in 1696.

Led the victorious Battle of Vienna

Ascended to the Polish throne in 1674

Other People Born on August 17th

Martin Sandberger

German colonel and lawyer
Born
August 17th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2010 15 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1911, a German military officer and lawyer operated during World War II. Served as a colonel in the SS and was implicated in war crimes, particularly in connection with mass executions in occupied territories. Captured by Allied forces post-war and stood trial for crimes against humanity. Convicted in the 1949 Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials, sentencing included imprisonment. Released in the 1950s, later pursued legal practice.

Continue Reading

Jihadi John

terrorist and executioner in ISIS videos
Born
August 17th, 1988 37 years ago
Died
November 12th, 2015 9 years ago — 27 years old

This individual gained notoriety as an executioner for the Islamic State, prominently featuring in propaganda videos that displayed the killings of several hostages. His face became widely recognized as a symbol of terrorism in the West. The individual, originally from Kuwait, relocated to the UK as a child and became radicalized later in life. The actions and videos released showcased brutal executions, which drew international condemnation and led to multiple efforts to track him down. Death occurred during a drone strike in Raqqa, Syria.

Continue Reading

Álvaro Pino

Spanish professional road cyclist
Born
August 17th, 1956 69 years ago

Competed in professional road cycling during the 1980s and 1990s. Achieved notable success in various national and international competitions. Was part of the Spanish national team in multiple World Championships. Won the prestigious Vuelta a España in 1986, securing a place among elite cyclists of the time. After retiring, transitioned into coaching and team management, contributing to the development of new cycling talents.

Continue Reading

Rachel Corsie

Scottish Footballer, Captain of Scotland
Born
August 17th, 1989 36 years ago

A professional footballer played as a defender, primarily recognized for contributions to the Scotland women's national team. Competed in several major tournaments including the UEFA Women's Euro 2017 and the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2019. Played for clubs such as Birmingham City and currently features for the Utah Royals in the National Women's Soccer League. Has served as team captain, demonstrating leadership on and off the pitch.

Continue Reading

Norm Coleman

American lawyer and politician, Mayor
Born
August 17th, 1949 76 years ago

Served as the 52nd Mayor of St. Paul, holding office from 1994 to 2002. Represented Minnesota in the U.S. Senate from 2003 to 2009. Played a significant role in local and state politics, focusing on issues such as infrastructure and economic development. Also worked as a partner in a law firm before entering public service. Attended the University of Iowa for undergraduate studies and earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Minnesota Law School.

Continue Reading

V. S. Naipaul

Nobel Prize-winning novelist and essayist
Born
August 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Trinidad, one of the influential writers of the 20th century produced significant literary works exploring post-colonial themes. Notable for novels that portray the complex realities of colonialism and its aftermath. Wrote the acclaimed works 'A House for Mr. Biswas' and 'In a Free State.' Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2001 for a body of work that uniquely reflected human experiences amidst cultural dislocation.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 17th

Uthman

Caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate
Died
June 17th, 656 1369 years ago — None years old

Born in 579, served as the third caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate from 644 until 656. Played a significant role in the expansion of the Islamic state, overseeing conquests in Persia, North Africa, and the Balkans. Under caliphate, standardized the written Quran, preserving its text for future generations. His governance faced internal dissent, leading to unrest and his eventual assassination in 656.

Continue Reading

Ingeborg of Norway

Princess consort and regent of Sweden
Born
1301 724 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1361 664 years ago — 60 years old

Ingeborg of Norway served as the princess consort of Sweden and as regent during the absence of her husband. Born into Norwegian royalty, Ingeborg's union strengthened ties between Norway and Sweden. Her tenure as regent involved navigating the complexities of medieval politics, including dealing with rival factions and ensuring the stability of the kingdom. The period during which she ruled saw significant challenges, especially regarding territorial disputes and dynastic claims. Ingeborg played a crucial role in maintaining the interests of the crown, overseeing governance, and supporting her husband's rule until his return.

Continue Reading

Julien Félix

French military officer and aviator
Born
March 2nd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1914 111 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1869, a notable French military officer and aviator played significant roles in early aviation and military operations. Involved in aviation from its early days, contributed to the development of military aviation strategies. Participated in various missions, showcasing skills in piloting and aerial tactics, thus advancing military aviation.

Continue Reading

Roberto Calvi

Italian banker and financial executive
Born
April 13th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1982 43 years ago — 62 years old

Worked as a banker in Italy, leading Banco Ambrosiano as president. Involved in international banking activities during the 1970s and 1980s. His tenure was marked by significant financial operations, including dealings with the Vatican. The bank collapsed in the mid-1980s amidst scandals and financial irregularities. Calvi's mysterious death in 1982, found hanging from a bridge in London, raised numerous questions and theories regarding his financial dealings and connections.

Continue Reading

Eugen Weidmann

German criminal involved in notorious crimes
Born
February 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1939 86 years ago — 31 years old

Born in Germany, engaged in a life of crime that culminated in significant notoriety during the early 20th century. Involved in a series of violent crimes, Weidmann was ultimately convicted for multiple murders in France. His execution by guillotine in 1939 marked the last public guillotine execution in France, contributing to his legacy in criminal history.

Continue Reading

Dirk V

Count of Holland
Born
1052 973 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1091 934 years ago — 39 years old

Ruled as Count of Holland from approximately 1039 until death in 1091. Strengthened the county's position in the region through strategic marriages and alliances. Played a significant role in the local politics of the region, maintaining authority over the territory. His tenure was marked by efforts to enhance the influence of Holland among neighboring counties.

Continue Reading