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
Katrina Hart
English runner and Paralympic medalist
Born
May 17th, 1990 36 years ago
Competed in athletics as a sprint runner, primarily focusing on events such as the 100 meters and 200 meters. Achieved recognition for representing Great Britain in various international competitions. Participated in the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, where notable performances led to significant accolades. Focused on both individual achievements and contributions to relay events, showcasing speed and determination on the track.
Continue ReadingMose Masoe
Rugby league player, Super League star
Born
May 17th, 1989 37 years ago
Born in New Zealand, a rugby league player excelled as a prop during a career that spanned several major teams. Played for the Warrington Wolves in the Super League and gained recognition for contributions to the team. Later, moved to the Hull Kingston Rovers where he continued to make a significant impact on the field. Injuries played a notable role towards the end of the career, leading to a shift in focus after retirement from professional play.
Continue ReadingChristine Ohuruogu
Olympic Gold Medalist Runner
Born
May 17th, 1984 42 years ago
A prominent runner specialized in the 400 meters. Won the gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and also secured a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Achieved significant success at the World Championships, securing multiple titles and medals throughout the career. Competed for Great Britain in various international competitions, achieving personal bests and establishing a reputation as a leading athlete in the discipline.
Continue ReadingAlbert
Duke of Prussia
Born
May 17th, 1490 536 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1568 458 years ago — 77 years old
Held the title of Duke of Prussia from 1525 until his death in 1568. Founded the Duchy of Prussia, which marked the establishment of a Protestant state. Oversaw the transition from a monastic state under the Teutonic Knights to a secular duchy. Engaged in political and military affairs during the Reformation period.
Continue ReadingTimo Simonlatser
Estonian Skiing Champion
Born
May 17th, 1986 40 years ago
A prominent skier from Estonia, competed in cross-country skiing events. Participated in multiple international competitions, showcasing athletic skills and endurance. Represented Estonia in the Winter Olympics, contributing to the country's presence in winter sports.
Continue ReadingGuido Pella
Argentine Tennis Player with ATP Titles
Born
May 17th, 1990 36 years ago
Professional tennis player from Argentina. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 20 in 2019. Competed in all four Grand Slam tournaments and had notable performances, reaching the fourth round of Wimbledon in 2018. Successfully represented Argentina in the Davis Cup, contributing to the team's efforts over several years. Secured ATP singles titles, showcasing proficiency on both hard and clay courts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 10th
Rocky Colavito
Baseball player and sportscaster, All-Star
Born
August 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2024 1 years ago — 91 years old
An accomplished baseball player and sportscaster, played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Achieved notable prominence during the 1950s and 1960s. Competed with teams including the Cleveland Indians and the New York Yankees. Recognized for power hitting and defensive skills. Also engaged in broadcasting after retirement, providing analysis and commentary on the sport.
Continue ReadingFrançois Sulpice Beudant
French mineralogist and geologist
Born
September 5th, 1787 238 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1850 175 years ago — 63 years old
Became a prominent figure in mineralogy and geology. Conducted extensive research and published significant works in the field. Joined the Royal Academy of Sciences. Contributed to geological mapping and mineral classification. Authored notable publications, enhancing the understanding of crystalline structures and mineral properties.
Continue ReadingEd Wood
Filmmaker and director of Plan 9 from Outer Space
Born
October 10th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1978 47 years ago — 54 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual gained recognition for a distinctive style characterized by unconventional storytelling and low-budget productions. Achievements include directing the cult classic film 'Plan 9 from Outer Space', often cited as one of the worst films ever made, which has since garnered a cult following. The craftsmanship in film-making drew attention during the 1950s and became a subject of interest in film studies. This person also collaborated with various actors and contributed to countless productions throughout the later part of the 20th century.
Continue ReadingAugusto Pinochet
Chilean General, 30th President of Chile
Born
November 25th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old
Rose to prominence as a general in the Chilean Army, leading a military coup that overthrew the democratically elected government of President Salvador Allende in 1973. Subsequently assumed the presidency and governed until 1990, implementing neoliberal economic reforms and establishing a military regime marked by widespread human rights violations. After leaving office, faced legal challenges and various attempts to prosecute for crimes committed during the dictatorship.
Continue ReadingArmand Hammer
Businessman and Occidental Petroleum founder
Born
May 21st, 1898 128 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1990 35 years ago — 92 years old
Established Occidental Petroleum in 1920, leading the company to become one of the largest oil producers in the United States. Expanded operations internationally, significantly contributing to the oil industry. Engaged in various philanthropic activities, focusing on cultural and medical initiatives. Maintained a high-profile presence in business and politics, fostering relationships with several world leaders.
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.
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