Panagis Tsaldaris
Greek politician, Prime Minister of Greece
Served as Prime Minister of Greece during significant political periods. Held office at different times from 1921 to 1924 and again from 1933 to 1935. Participated extensively in the political landscape of Greece during the interwar years, shaping policies and governance. Elected multiple times to the Hellenic Parliament, contributed to legislative developments and national discussions. Engaged in various political movements and alignments reflecting the challenges faced by Greece during this era.
Served as Prime Minister twice
Elected multiple times to the Hellenic Parliament
Other People Born on May 17th
Passenger
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
May 17th, 1984 41 years ago
Born in England, this individual gained prominence as a singer-songwriter and musician. The career began in 2007 with the release of the debut album. Achieved significant recognition with the single 'Let Her Go', which topped charts internationally. The style blends folk and acoustic elements, appealing to a broad audience. Continued to release multiple albums, showcasing a distinctive voice and storytelling ability.
Continue ReadingAlbert
Duke of Prussia
Born
May 17th, 1490 535 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1568 457 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 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 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 ReadingCaroline of Brunswick
Queen consort of King George IV
Born
May 17th, 1768 257 years ago
Died
1821 205 years ago — 53 years old
Born on May 17, 1768, Caroline of Brunswick became the queen consort of King George IV of the United Kingdom. Marriage to George IV occurred in 1795, and the union was tumultuous, marked by personal and political strife. Many public controversies surrounded her, especially regarding their separation in 1814 and subsequent trials that captured public attention. In 1820, George IV attempted to exclude her from his coronation. However, Caroline made a dramatic entrance and was denied entry, which further heightened her popularity among the public. She lived in Italy for the latter part of her life until her death in 1821.
Continue ReadingChristian Bolaños
Costa Rican footballer and national team player
Born
May 17th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional footballer from Costa Rica, contributions included significant stints in both domestic and international leagues. Played primarily as a winger, spending time at clubs such as Saprissa, where multiple league titles were secured. Gained experience in international competitions, representing the national team with appearances in the FIFA World Cup and CONCACAF Gold Cup. Known for speed and skill on the ball, which helped elevate team performance during crucial matches.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Daumantas of Pskov
Lithuanian prince and military leader
Died
May 17th, 1299 726 years ago — None years old
Born around 1240, this prince served as the ruler of Pskov in the late 13th century. His reign is characterized by military campaigns against the Teutonic Knights and efforts to consolidate power in the region. Under his leadership, Pskov successfully resisted external threats while maintaining autonomy. The prince's actions contributed to shaping the political landscape of the area during a tumultuous period marked by conflicts over territorial control and influence. Daumantas's legacy persisted beyond his death in 1299, impacting the future governance of Pskov and its relationships with neighboring states.
Continue ReadingLiu Jianfeng
Chinese warlord during the Five Dynasties
Died
May 17th, 896 1129 years ago — None years old
During the Five Dynasties period, one warlord played a significant role in regional politics and military conflicts. This figure seized power and ruled with authority over the region, establishing a foothold amid the fragmentation of the Tang Dynasty's influence. The reign extended through tactical warfare and alliances with other military leaders. Despite the chaotic political environment, the warlord maintained control over territories and engaged in numerous battles, solidifying a legacy in Chinese history through military prowess and governance.
Continue ReadingMario Benedetti
Uruguayan author and poet
Born
September 14th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in Latin American literature, this individual authored numerous novels, plays, and poems. Works include 'La Tregua', which explores themes of love and loss, and 'El Hombre que Plantaba Árboles', a celebrated short story. Contributions to journalism included commentaries on social and political issues, reflecting a deep engagement with Uruguayan society. The literature often examined the human condition and the struggles of everyday life, resonating widely with readers. Active in the political landscape, this individual faced exile during periods of political unrest in Uruguay.
Continue ReadingLeopold Auenbrugger
Austrian physician and inventor of percussion
Born
November 19th, 1722 303 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1809 216 years ago — 86 years old
A physician developed the technique of percussion for diagnosing diseases. This innovation transformed clinical practices. Initial experiments involved using his own chest as a model to demonstrate the value of tapping and feeling the chest wall to gather diagnostic information. The technique was outlined in a treatise published in 1761, which laid the groundwork for modern physical examination methods. The work emphasized the importance of systematic observation in medicine and was influential in the fields of internal medicine and diagnostics.
Continue ReadingGo-Fushimi
Emperor of Japan during the Nanboku-chō period
Born
1288 738 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1336 689 years ago — 48 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1287, serving as the 96th emperor of Japan during a tumultuous period marked by imperial conflict. The reign was characterized by the Nanboku-chō period, which involved the division of loyalty between competing imperial lines. Go-Fushimi's era included ongoing power struggles, notably between the Northern and Southern courts. After abdication in 1298, remained an influential figure during the continued efforts to unify the imperial seat. Passed away in 1336.
Continue ReadingHarmon Killebrew
Baseball player, 1969 AL MVP
Born
June 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 74 years old
A professional baseball player, Killebrew spent the majority of his career with the Minnesota Twins. Renowned as a power hitter, he contributed significantly to the team’s success during the 1960s and early 1970s. One of the defining moments of his career came in 1969, when he won the American League Most Valuable Player award, highlighting his exceptional performance throughout the season. Killebrew's career encompassed numerous All-Star selections and he was pivotal in leading the Twins to the World Series in 1965, where the team faced the Los Angeles Dodgers. His prolific home run hitting ability established him as one of the premier sluggers of his era, making a lasting impression in Major League Baseball.
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