Pedro de Valdivia
Spanish conquistador, founded Santiago
A Spanish conquistador, played a pivotal role in the Spanish conquest of Chile. Arrived in South America in 1535 and explored parts of the continent. In 1541, founded the city of Santiago, which became a major urban center. Faced significant resistance from Indigenous populations but continued to expand Spanish territories in the region. Died in battle against the Mapuche in 1553.
Founded Santiago in 1541
Conquered northern Chile
Other People Born on April 17th
A. Thiagarajah
Sri Lankan educator and politician
Born
April 17th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
1981 45 years ago — 65 years old
An educator and politician from Sri Lanka, significantly contributed to the field of education and the political landscape. Served as a member of the parliament, influencing legislative decisions and educational reforms. Played a pivotal role in promoting education in the Tamil community and advocating for educational rights. Worked on various committees and was involved in efforts to enhance educational policy and access.
Continue ReadingEliza Acton
Food writer and poet known for cooking.
Born
April 17th, 1799 227 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1859 167 years ago — 59 years old
A significant figure in English culinary literature, contributed as a food writer and poet. Authored the cookbook 'Modern Cookery for Private Families' which was one of the first to include precise measurements and timings for recipes, setting a new standard in cookbooks. The work garnered attention for its innovative approach and comprehensive nature, influencing future generations of writers and home cooks. Acton also wrote poetry, with her verses reflecting her experiences and insights.
Continue ReadingEdmonde Charles-Roux
French journalist and author, wrote 'Oublier Piaf'
Born
April 17th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2016 10 years ago — 95 years old
A journalist and author with significant contributions to literature and cultural commentary. Worked for various publications including 'Le Figaro' and 'L'Express'. Authored several novels, with 'Oublier Piaf' gaining notable recognition. Served as a member of the Académie Goncourt, which awards prestigious literary prizes in France. Engaged in uncovering social issues and highlighting cultural stories through journalism and fiction.
Continue ReadingSolly Hemus
Baseball player and manager for Cardinals
Born
April 17th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 94 years old
Played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball, debuting in 1949 with the St. Louis Cardinals. Transitioned to coaching and later served as a manager for the Cardinals during the 1960s. His tenure included both playing and managing experiences, showcasing a strong presence in the league.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Browne
Journalist and photographer for Vietnam War
Born
April 17th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to journalism during the Vietnam War. Served as a war correspondent for the Associated Press, capturing critical moments that defined public perceptions of the conflict. Famous for the Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph of a Buddhist monk's self-immolation in 1963, this image highlighted the harsh realities and moral complexities of the war. Later worked for The New York Times, continuing to report on major global events.
Continue ReadingDonald Richie
Author and film critic of Japanese cinema
Born
April 17th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2013 13 years ago — 88 years old
An American-Japanese author and film critic, contributed significantly to the understanding of Japanese culture and cinema. Spent much time in Japan, where works reflected deep engagement with the country's film industry. Wrote extensively about Japanese cinema, providing insights that shaped Western appreciation of the medium. Authored several influential books including 'A Hundred Years of Japanese Film', which explored the history and evolution of Japanese filmmaking. His film criticism appeared in various publications and he became a prominent voice in cinematic discourse.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 25th
Tristan Tzara
Dadaist poet and critic
Born
April 28th, 1896 130 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1963 62 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Romania and later moving to France, a leading figure in the Dada movement, which challenged established artistic norms. Contributed to the manifestos of Dada and developed concepts of chance and spontaneity in art and poetry. Also engaged in political activism and contributed to discussions around surrealism and modernism. The influence on avant-garde literature and visual arts remains significant.
Continue ReadingKarl Abraham
German psychoanalyst and author
Born
May 3rd, 1877 149 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1925 100 years ago — 48 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of psychoanalysis, focusing on the relationship between dreams and the unconscious mind. Developed theories about the fixation and regression in psychosexual development. Served as a leading figure in the Berlin Psychoanalytic Society. Published various works that expanded on Freudian theories, particularly in connection with the treatment of mental illness.
Continue ReadingBill Hewitt
Canadian sportscaster and journalist
Born
December 8th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1996 29 years ago — 68 years old
Born in Canada, a significant figure in sports journalism. Credited with pioneering sports broadcasting in the country. Served as a sports commentator and analyst for major networks, contributing to the growth of sports media. Covered major sporting events and provided analysis for various sports. Worked with prominent figures in the sports industry and provided insights into Canadian sports culture.
Continue ReadingWilliam Haselden
English cartoonist and illustrator
Born
December 3rd, 1872 153 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1953 72 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed to various publications in the early 20th century. Worked primarily for The Daily Mirror and was recognized for the use of humor in social commentary through illustrations. Additionally, contributions included political cartoons that critiqued figures and events of the time. Haselden utilized his talent to capture the cultural zeitgeist, making his work both engaging and reflective of contemporary issues.
Continue ReadingLinus Yale Jr.
Engineer and inventor of the modern lock
Born
April 4th, 1821 205 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1868 157 years ago — 47 years old
An American engineer and businessman, significant contributions to lock technology were made while operating a lock manufacturing company. Developed the pin tumbler lock mechanism, which revolutionized locking systems. Patented multiple inventions related to locks and keys. Contributed to the founding of Yale & Towne Manufacturing Company in 1868, furthering production and distribution of high-quality locking devices.
Continue ReadingErico Aumentado
Filipino politician and journalist
Born
May 18th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2012 13 years ago — 72 years old
A lawyer, journalist, and politician with a career spanning several decades in public service. Served as the Governor of Bohol, contributing to various local governance initiatives. Held an elected position as a member of the House of Representatives, where legislative duties included oversight of national policies. Engaged in journalism, writing on important societal issues, pairing legal expertise with media influence to advocate for reforms.
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