Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba

Queen and diplomat of Ndongo

Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba - Leaders & Politicians born 1583
Born

1583
443 years ago

Died
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

K. W. Devanayagam

Sri Lankan lawyer and Minister of Justice
Born
March 26th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 92 years old

A Sri Lankan lawyer and politician, served as the 10th Minister of Justice. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Sri Lanka during the mid-20th century. Engaged in legal practices and contributed to legislative reforms. Participated actively in parliamentary proceedings and discussions regarding justice and legal frameworks in the country.

Continue Reading

Kim Jong-il

North Korean Supreme Leader
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the Supreme Leader of North Korea from 1994 until 2011. Assumed leadership following the death of Kim Il-sung, the nation's founder and his father. Oversaw the country's nuclear weapons development program, which led to increased tensions with the international community. His tenure was marked by a strong cult of personality and an emphasis on military-first policies, leading to significant military expansion.

Continue Reading

Sammy Baugh

American football player and coach
Born
March 17th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 94 years old

Played as a quarterback for the Washington Redskins from 1937 to 1952. Achieved three NFL championships in 1937, 1942, and 1943. Also served as a coach after retirement from playing, influencing the game through his strategic insights and leadership. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.

Continue Reading

Jennifer Jones

American actress, Oscar winner for "The Song of Bernadette"
Born
March 2nd, 1919 107 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 90 years old

An accomplished actress in American cinema, recognized for a career that spanned several decades. Featured in critically acclaimed films such as "The Song of Bernadette," which earned an Academy Award for Best Actress. Starred in major productions like "Duel in the Sun" and "Love is a Many-Splendored Thing." Established a prominent presence in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s, known for her exceptional acting ability and on-screen charisma. Received multiple nominations and awards throughout her career, solidifying her status as one of the leading actresses of her time.

Continue Reading

Dieter Grau

Scientist and engineer in aerospace
Born
April 24th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 101 years old

Born in Germany and later moving to the United States, a prominent aerospace scientist and engineer contributed significantly to advancements in aerodynamics and fluid mechanics. Received a PhD in engineering and involved in various groundbreaking projects in aerospace technology. Worked for NASA and contributed to research that advanced space exploration efforts during the mid-20th century. His research played a vital role in improving flight safety and efficiency in aeronautical engineering.

Continue Reading

Harold Holt

Australian Prime Minister during 1966-67
Born
August 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1967 58 years ago — 59 years old

Served as the 17th Prime Minister of Australia from 1966 until disappearance in 1967. Before becoming Prime Minister, held various ministerial positions including Minister for Labour and National Service and Minister for Immigration. Expanded the country's involvement in the Vietnam War and introduced significant reforms in education and immigration policy. Holt's tenure is notably marked by his push for a new Liberal Party agenda and closer ties with the United States during the Cold War.

Continue Reading