Katharina von Zimmern

Swiss sovereign abbess of St. Gall

Katharina von Zimmern - Swiss sovereign abbess of St. Gall
Born

1478
547 years ago

Died

August 17th, 1547
478 years ago — 69 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Switzerland

Links & References

Served as the sovereign abbess of the Abbey of St. Gall from 1502 until her death in 1547. Played a significant role in the governance of the abbey, influencing religious and political matters in the region. Held authority over the abbey's territory and managed relationships with local powers during a time of significant social and political change in Switzerland. Contributed to the stability and administration of the abbey in the context of the Protestant Reformation.

Governed the Abbey of St. Gall

Managed the abbey's political affairs

Other People Who Died on August 17th

Bill Deedes

Journalist and politician
Born
June 1st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2007 18 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent English journalist and politician, engaged in journalism from a young age. Served as the editor of 'The Daily Telegraph' from 1975 to 1986. Transitioned into politics, representing the Conservative Party as a Member of Parliament from 1955 to 1964 and later from 1970 to 1974. Held several important roles, including Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. Contributed significantly to public discourse through his writing and editorial work, focusing on national and international issues.

Continue Reading

Vivian Vance

Actress known for 'I Love Lucy'
Born
July 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1979 46 years ago — 70 years old

An American actress and singer, this individual gained recognition for a leading role in the television series 'I Love Lucy' as Ethel Mertz. The portrayal established a new standard for comedic performance on television. Vance also appeared in various stage productions and earned acclaim for her performances in musical theater. Over the years, this talent showcased versatility, transitioning between different media forms including film and television. The career spanned several decades, marked by a significant presence in both comedy and drama, contributing to the evolution of television entertainment during the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Hans Gude

Norwegian-German painter and academic
Born
March 13th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1903 122 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1825, a prominent painter specialized in landscapes, primarily influenced by the Romantic movement. Studied at the Düsseldorf Academy, where the works of Caspar David Friedrich inspired artistic direction. Became an academic, teaching at the Academy of Fine Arts in Berlin. His work primarily captured the beauty of Norwegian scenery, showcasing lakes, mountains, and dramatic skies. Contributed significantly to the Nordic landscape genre, developing a distinct style that emphasized the interplay of light and natural elements. Many of the paintings reflect an intimate connection with nature, often depicting winter scenes and fjords.

Continue Reading

Ted Whitten

Australian football player and journalist
Born
July 27th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1995 30 years ago — 62 years old

Played for the Essendon Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL) from 1951 to 1970, achieving great success in the sport. Served as a prominent football commentator after retirement and contributed to journalism. Represented Australia in international matches, earning recognition for playing at the highest level.

Continue Reading

Conrad Aiken

American poet and novelist
Born
August 5th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1973 52 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1889, a prominent American poet, novelist, and critic, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Aiken's literary career spanned multiple genres, with poetry as the primary focus. A published author from a young age, received a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1930 for the collection 'Selected Poems.' Aiken explored themes of consciousness and emotion in works such as the novel 'Apprenticeship' and the short story collection 'Great Circle.' His influence extends to various literary movements, and he was associated with the objectivist movement. In his writing, Aiken often employed innovative techniques, blending elements of modernism and romanticism.

Continue Reading

Sophie Masloff

Civil servant and Mayor of Pittsburgh
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 97 years old

Served as the 56th Mayor of Pittsburgh from 1988 to 1994. Held various positions in municipal government, including City Council President. Focused on community development and local governance during time in office. Involved in numerous civic and community organizations and worked to enhance the city's infrastructure and quality of life for residents.

Continue Reading