Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba

Queen and diplomat of Ndongo

Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba - Queen and diplomat of Ndongo
Born

1583
442 years ago

Died

December 17th, 1663
361 years ago — 80 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Angola

Links & References

Ruled as the Queen of Ndongo and Matamba during the 17th century. Engaged in resistance against Portuguese colonization in Angola. Established diplomatic relations with various European powers and advocated for her people's autonomy. Played a significant role in the political landscape of her time, navigating complex alliances and conflicts to strengthen her kingdoms. Successfully led military campaigns against Portuguese forces, displaying strategic acumen in protecting her territory and sovereignty.

Engaged in diplomatic negotiations with the Dutch

Led military campaigns against the Portuguese

Resisted colonization in Angola

Established strategic alliances in Africa and Europe

Other People Who Died on December 17th

Jeremy Bulloch

English actor best known for Star Wars
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2020 4 years ago — 75 years old

An English actor recognized for roles in television and film, gained prominence through the portrayal of Boba Fett in the original Star Wars trilogy. Contributed to the British television landscape with appearances in series such as 'Doctor Who' and 'Robin of Sherwood'. Career spanned several decades, with performances in various genres including drama, science fiction, and action.

Continue Reading

Victor Francis Hess

Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 24th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1964 60 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Austria, a physicist contributed significantly to the study of cosmic rays. Emigrated to the United States and held positions in various academic institutions. Conducted pioneering experiments using balloon flights to collect data on radiation from outer space, leading to groundbreaking findings in the field of high-energy physics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1936 for work related to cosmic radiation. Continued research and teaching, influencing future generations of scientists.

Continue Reading

Don Ellis

Trumpet player and composer of jazz
Born
July 25th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1978 46 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent trumpet player and composer in the jazz genre, contributed significantly to the fusion of jazz with other musical elements. Led the Don Ellis Orchestra, which gained recognition for its innovative arrangements and use of unusual time signatures. Composed and arranged music for films, including notable work for the motion picture "The French Connection." Experimented with different instruments and extended the boundaries of jazz music, influencing future generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Rajendra Lahiri

Indian activist advocating for independence
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1927 97 years ago — 35 years old

Played a significant role in the Indian independence movement, focusing on revolutionary activities against British colonial rule. Involved in the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, worked towards the establishment of an independent India. Executed in 1927 for participation in the assassination of a British police officer as part of a larger plan aimed at combating colonial oppression. His actions contributed to the growing nationalist sentiments during the struggle for independence.

Continue Reading

Janet Rowley

Human Geneticist and Cancer Researcher
Born
April 5th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 88 years old

A human geneticist contributed to the understanding of the genetic basis of cancer. Pioneered research identifying chromosomal abnormalities in cancer cells, particularly in leukemia. Helped establish the link between genetic alterations and cancer development. Advocated for the importance of genetics in oncology, influencing both research and treatment approaches in the field of cancer.

Continue Reading

Ivan Vekić

Croatian politician and minister
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2014 10 years ago — 76 years old

Held the position of Minister of the Interior in Croatia, overseeing internal affairs and law enforcement. Served as a colonel in the Croatian Army during the Croatian War of Independence. Actively participated in shaping the country's post-war policies and legal framework. Contributed to the development of Croatian legislation and governance structures.

Continue Reading