Napoleon Zervas
Greek general and politician
Served as a general during the Greek Civil War and later became a prominent politician. Led Greek resistance movements against Axis occupation during World War II and was instrumental in the establishment of post-war Greek political structures. Held significant political positions in the immediate aftermath of the war, contributing to national policy and military organization.
Led resistance against Axis forces in WWII
Served as a high-ranking general in the Greek Army
Held political office in post-war Greece
Other People Born on May 17th
Saul Adler
Microbiologist and parasitologist
Born
May 17th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1966 60 years ago — 70 years old
A Belarusian-English microbiologist and parasitologist. Conducted significant research on the life cycles of several parasitic diseases. Contributed to studies on the epidemiology and treatment methods of various parasitic infections, particularly those affecting humans. Engaged in academic work and published numerous papers in scientific journals, often focusing on the effects of parasites on health.
Continue ReadingTodd Redmond
Baseball pitcher with Toronto Blue Jays
Born
May 17th, 1985 40 years ago
Played professional baseball primarily as a pitcher. Made MLB debut with the Atlanta Braves in 2013. Joined the Toronto Blue Jays, contributing to the team's pitching rotation. Spent time with other teams in minor league affiliations and earned recognition for strong performances in various games during his career.
Continue ReadingChristine Nesbitt
Speed skater and Olympic champion
Born
May 17th, 1985 40 years ago
A speed skater from Canada, recognized for achievements in long track speed skating. Competed at the 2010 Winter Olympics held in Vancouver, capturing a gold medal in the 1000 meters event. Additionally participated in the 2014 Winter Olympics, securing a bronze medal in the 1500 meters. Earned multiple medals at the World Cup level and set various national records during a prominent career in the sport.
Continue ReadingDerek Hough
Dancer and choreographer on 'DWTS'
Born
May 17th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, this individual became a prominent dancer, choreographer, and actor. Gained recognition as a professional dancer on 'Dancing with the Stars', earning multiple Emmy Awards for choreography. Additionally, appeared in stage productions including 'Footloose' and 'Burn the Floor'. Involved in music, releasing singles and participating in tours that showcased dance and performance skills.
Continue ReadingNicky Hofs
Dutch footballer and Vitesse star
Born
May 17th, 1983 42 years ago
A professional footballer, specialized in playing as a midfielder. Began career at Vitesse Arnhem, where significant contributions included scoring crucial goals and providing assists during pivotal matches. Played a key role in Vitesse’s 2017 KNVB Cup victory, contributing to the team's success in Dutch football. Later transitioned to play for various clubs in lower divisions, showcasing longevity in the sport.
Continue ReadingMayte Martínez
Spanish middle-distance runner
Born
May 17th, 1976 49 years ago
Competed in middle-distance events, specializing in the 800 meters. Participated in multiple international competitions including the Olympics and World Championships. Achieved significant success in European competitions, earning medals and recognition for performances. Excelled in the 800 meters, establishing personal bests that placed among the top tier of athletes in the event.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 10th
Mackenzie Bowell
5th Prime Minister of Canada
Born
December 27th, 1823 202 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1917 108 years ago — 93 years old
A journalist and politician held the office of the fifth Prime Minister of Canada from December 21, 1894, to April 27, 1896. During the tenure, focus was placed on the issues surrounding the Manitoba Schools Question and the economic challenges of the time. An influential figure in the Conservative Party, played a significant role in shaping party policies and governance during a period of political instability.
Continue ReadingRon Bouchard
Race car driver and businessman
Born
1948 78 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 67 years old
Bouchard competed in the NASCAR Cup Series during the 1980s. He achieved his most notable success in 1981 by winning the NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year award. Bouchard also won the 1981 Talladega 500, which marked his first and only victory in the NASCAR Cup Series. After retiring from racing, he transitioned to a career in business, operating a successful used car dealership.
Continue ReadingRick Danko
Singer-songwriter and The Band member
Born
December 29th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1999 26 years ago — 55 years old
A Canadian singer-songwriter and bass player, contributed significantly to rock music as a member of The Band. The Band formed in the late 1960s and achieved widespread acclaim for its unique blend of rock, folk, and Americana sounds. The group's work on albums such as "Music from Big Pink" and "The Band" included rich storytelling and innovative arrangements. Danko's soulful vocals and musicianship played a crucial role in shaping the band's signature sound. He also pursued a solo career that showcased his talents as a songwriter and performer.
Continue ReadingJoseph Dalton Hooker
Botanist and explorer of the Antarctic
Born
June 30th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1911 114 years ago — 94 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of botany through extensive exploration and research. Conducted a prominent botanical survey in the Himalayas and the Antarctic regions. Collaborated with Charles Darwin and supported his theories on evolution. Authored several pivotal works on plant classification, including 'The Flora of British India' and 'Institutional History of the Royal Gardens at Kew'. Served as Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and led efforts to expand its collections and research.
Continue ReadingCaspar Schwenckfeld
Theologian and religious reformer
Died
December 10th, 1561 464 years ago — None years old
A theologian and writer associated with the Protestant Reformation, contributed to the development of spiritualist thought. Advocated for a personal, inner faith experience and critiqued established Protestant doctrines. Engaged in debates with contemporaries, emphasizing the importance of individual interpretation of scripture. Established a community of believers in Silesia that followed his teachings and writings on Christian living.
Continue ReadingDavid Shimoni
Belarusian-Israeli poet and translator
Born
August 25th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1956 69 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Belarus in 1891, this individual became a prominent poet and translator in Hebrew literature. Residing in Israel, contributions spanned various literary forms, with a particular focus on poetry that explored personal and national themes. Active in cultural circles and literary communities, works reflected both the Jewish experience and broader human emotions. Efforts in translation introduced significant foreign works to Hebrew-speaking audiences, enhancing cultural exchange and understanding. The literary legacy includes a blend of personal introspection and wider societal concerns, resonating with readers over time.
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