Juana Inés de la Cruz
Mexican poet and scholar of the Baroque.
A prolific poet and scholar, contributed significantly to the literary landscape of colonial Mexico during the Baroque period. She wrote poetry, plays, and essays, showcasing mastery in forms and themes including love, religion, and philosophy. Her works often challenged the societal norms of her time, advocating for women's education and intellectual rights. Lived in a convent in Mexico City, where she engaged in correspondence with influential figures of her day. The legacy of her writing continues to influence Mexican literature.
Authored the poem 'Respuesta a Sor Filotea de la Cruz'
Wrote 'Inundación Castálida', a notable poetic work
Other People Born on November 12th
Maximilian von Weichs
German field marshal during WWII
Born
November 12th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1881, a prominent field marshal in the German Army during World War II. Participated in significant military campaigns on the Eastern Front. Led troops during the Battle of Moscow and commanded the 12th Army during the Battle of Stalingrad. His leadership contributed to various strategic operations throughout the war, marking a notable military career until the conflict's conclusion.
Continue ReadingDiego Luis de San Vitores
Spanish Jesuit missionary in Guam
Born
November 12th, 1627 398 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1672 353 years ago — 44 years old
A Spanish Jesuit missionary traveled to the Mariana Islands in 1668, where he worked to evangelize the indigenous Chamorro people. Established several missions and was instrumental in the spread of Christianity in the region. His efforts greatly influenced the cultural and religious landscape of Guam. His missionary work faced challenges, including resistance from both the local population and rival colonial powers. San Vitores was martyred in 1672 during confrontations with Chamorro warriors, highlighting the tensions of colonialism and religious conversion in the Pacific.
Continue ReadingErrol Brown
Jamaican-English singer-songwriter with hit songs
Born
November 12th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Jamaica and later moving to England, a singer-songwriter gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the band Hot Chocolate. The group achieved commercial success in the 1970s and 1980s, known for blending pop, soul, and reggae sounds. One of the most beloved songs, 'You Sexy Thing,' topped charts worldwide and became a cultural staple. The band's energetic performances and distinctive style garnered a loyal fan base, leading to numerous hit singles and albums throughout its career.
Continue ReadingArianny Celeste
Model and ring girl for the UFC
Born
November 12th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, this individual gained prominence as a ring girl for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). In addition to working with the UFC, this individual also participated in modeling and acted in various television shows. The involvement in MMA events provided significant visibility, leading to recognition in the sports entertainment industry. Participation in promotional events and collaborations with other brands further added to the overall presence in popular culture.
Continue ReadingRob Schrab
American writer and artist of comic books
Born
November 12th, 1969 56 years ago
Contributed to television and comic book industries. Collaborated on various series including 'The Sarah Silverman Program' and 'Channel 101'. Created and illustrated graphic novels such as 'Scud: The Disposable Assassin'. Co-founded the online comedy channel 'Channel 101', promoting innovative short films and web series. Engaged in projects involving animation and comedy, showcasing a unique visual style and storytelling approach.
Continue ReadingRubén Bonifaz Nuño
Mexican poet, scholar, and translator
Born
November 12th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent figure in Mexican literature, contributed to poetry, scholarship, and translation. Published various collections of poetry, exploring themes of identity, culture, and nature. Active in literary circles and served as a professor, sharing knowledge about Mexican literature and poetry. Translated significant works of foreign literature into Spanish, enriching the literary landscape. Received accolades for contributions to literature, enhancing understanding and appreciation of poetic forms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 17th
Marin Falier
Doge of Venice during 1354-1355
Born
1285 740 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1355 670 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the Doge of Venice from 1354 until death in 1355. Marin Falier is most noted for his attempt to strengthen the power of the nobility and increase military efforts against rivals. His rule faced significant unrest, culminating in a conspiracy that aimed at overthrowing the government. Following a failed coup, he was executed, marking a significant event in Venetian history.
Continue ReadingGeorge Jennings
Rugby league player, played for Parramatta Eels
Born
June 9th, 1993 32 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1882 143 years ago — -112 years old
Born in Australia, a rugby league player entered the professional scene and played primarily as a winger. His career in the National Rugby League included stints with the Parramatta Eels and the Melbourne Storm. Through his agility and speed on the field, he contributed to the teams' strategies. Jennings represented New South Wales in junior competitions, showcasing talent at an early age. He made his first-grade debut in 2014 and consistently contributed to team plays throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAlan García
Peruvian politician and president
Born
May 23rd, 1949 76 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2019 6 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 61st and 64th President of Peru. First term in office lasted from 1985 to 1990, marked by attempts at economic reform and social development. Second term from 2006 to 2011 focused on economic growth and infrastructure projects. Initiated significant trade agreements and aimed to improve relations with foreign countries. Also held high-ranking positions in the Peruvian political landscape throughout his career, including roles in various political parties.
Continue ReadingKateri Tekakwitha
Native American saint and missionary
Born
1656 369 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1680 345 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1656, a Mohawk woman lived in what is now New York. Raised in the traditional beliefs of her tribe, she converted to Christianity in her teenage years, primarily influenced by Jesuit missionaries. Faced with opposition from her community, she sought safety and acceptance among the Christian community in Canada. Known for deep devotion to her faith and dedication to a life of prayer, she became a symbol of holiness for Native Americans. She is venerated as the first Native American saint by the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingDimitris Mitropanos
Greek singer with a rich vocal style
Born
April 2nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent figure in Greek music, recognized for contributions to the genre of laiko. Began his career in the 1960s and achieved widespread popularity during the 1970s and 1980s. Collaborated with various notable composers and musicians. Released numerous albums that showcased traditional Greek music and folk songs. His emotional delivery and unique voice resonated with audiences, earning a dedicated following throughout Greece and beyond.
Continue ReadingJean Baptiste Perrin
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 30th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1942 83 years ago — 71 years old
A physicist and chemist, contributions focused on the determination of Avogadro's number and the discovery of the Brownian motion. Worked extensively on the nature of matter and the kinetic theory of gases. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1926 for work on the discontinuous structure of matter. Later became a member of the French Academy of Sciences, influencing the fields of physics and physical chemistry.
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