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
Thomas Lemar
French footballer, Monaco player
Born
November 12th, 1995 30 years ago
A professional footballer from France, played as a winger. Started career with Caen before moving to AS Monaco, where contributed to the team's success in Ligue 1. Transferred to Atlético Madrid in 2018 and has played in various international competitions representing France.
Continue ReadingElias Pettersson
Swedish ice hockey player and rookie star
Born
November 12th, 1998 27 years ago
Elias Pettersson is an ice hockey player from Sweden. He played for the Vancouver Canucks in the National Hockey League (NHL). Pettersson was selected fifth overall in the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. During his rookie season, he displayed exceptional skill and agility on the ice, earning him the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's Rookie of the Year in 2019. He had a notable impact on the team, becoming one of their top scorers.
Continue ReadingJules Koundé
French footballer, Sevilla FC defender
Born
November 12th, 1998 27 years ago
A professional footballer, this individual plays as a central defender. Emerging from the youth ranks of the Bordeaux football academy, debut occurred in 2016. In 2019, transferred to Sevilla FC in La Liga, contributing to the team's success. Achieved victory in the UEFA Europa League in 2020. Represented the French national team at various youth levels before earning senior caps starting in 2021. Participation included the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament.
Continue ReadingTrey Burke
Basketball player and college star
Born
November 12th, 1992 33 years ago
Played college basketball for the University of Michigan, leading the team to the NCAA Championship game in 2013. Awarded the Naismith College Player of the Year and the Wooden Award in 2013. Entered the NBA Draft in 2013 and was selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves before being traded to the Utah Jazz. Contributed significantly as a point guard for the Jazz and had tenures with other teams in the NBA.
Continue ReadingLes McKeown
Scottish pop singer with Bay City Rollers
Born
November 12th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2021 5 years ago — 65 years old
Originated from Scotland, a pop singer gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the Bay City Rollers during the 1970s. The group achieved significant success with their catchy tunes and vibrant image, becoming a defining act of the era. The chart-topping single "Bye Bye Baby" topped the UK Singles Chart. McKeown also contributed to the band’s distinctive style and sound, which blended pop with glam rock. After parting ways with the band, he pursued a solo career and continued to perform, bringing hits from his earlier days to new audiences. McKeown's influence in pop music and his representation of the Scottish music scene remained notable until his passing in 2021.
Continue ReadingDāvis Bertāns
Latvian professional basketball player
Born
November 12th, 1992 33 years ago
Played professional basketball primarily as a forward. Competed in multiple leagues, including the NBA. Achieved recognition for skills as a sharpshooter. Contributed significantly to the Latvian national team in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 17th
Carlos Graça
São Toméan politician, Prime Minister
Born
December 22nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2013 13 years ago — 81 years old
Served as Prime Minister of São Tomé and Príncipe during multiple terms. Worked towards political and economic reforms in the country. Involved in the founding of political parties that shaped the nation's democratic landscape. Contributed to discussions on national development and governance. Engaged with international organizations to promote São Tomé and Príncipe on a global scale.
Continue ReadingAl-Walid II
Umayyad caliph and architect of expansion
Died
April 17th, 744 1282 years ago — None years old
Became caliph of the Umayyad Caliphate in 743. Focused on military campaigns, aiming to expand the empire into Central Asia and the Byzantine territories. Established significant infrastructure projects, contributing to the development of cities and trade routes. His reign was marked by internal strife and challenges from rival factions within the Umayyad dynasty. Experience in governance included managing a vast territory that stretched from Spain to India. Ruled until death in 744 amid power struggles.
Continue ReadingHannah Webster Foster
American journalist and author of novels
Born
September 10th, 1758 267 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1840 186 years ago — 81 years old
Published a notable early American novel that explored themes of women's rights and morality. Foster's work contributed to the literature of the early American republic. A prominent figure in the early 19th-century literary scene, she engaged in journalism, addressing social issues pertinent to her time. Through her writings, she shaped discussions around the role of women in society and authored several essays and articles, showcasing a commitment to the advancement of women's education.
Continue ReadingLouise Nevelson
Sculptor, creator of large wood sculptures
Born
September 23rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1988 38 years ago — 88 years old
An influential sculptor and educator, this artist gained recognition for signature large-scale sculptures constructed from found objects and painted in monochromatic palettes. Throughout a distinguished career, significant works included public installations and gallery exhibits across the United States. The artist's work explored themes of space, light, and shadow, merging sculpture with architectural elements. Teaching at various institutions, contributions to the field extended beyond personal creations, shaping future generations of artists. Received multiple awards including the National Medal of Arts, highlighting longstanding influence.
Continue ReadingChyna
Professional wrestler and actress
Born
December 27th, 1969 56 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2016 10 years ago — 46 years old
Began wrestling career in the late 1990s, gaining recognition in World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Became the first woman to hold the Intercontinental Championship, a title won in 1999. Also appeared in other promotions and had roles in films, including 'One Night in China.' Worked in reality television, including the series 'Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.' Career ended after public struggles and personal challenges.
Continue ReadingClaude Provost
Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup champion
Born
September 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1984 42 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent ice hockey player, had a successful career primarily with the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League. Played as a right winger and contributed significantly to the team's success during the 1950s and 1960s. Actively participated in five Stanley Cup championships with the Canadiens. Later played for the Minnesota North Stars before retirement. His legacy includes being recognized for excellence in a sport that demanded teamwork and skill.
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