Pedro Menéndez de Avilés
First Spanish Governor of Florida
Served as the first Spanish Governor of Florida, establishing the settlement of St. Augustine in 1565, which became the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. Appointed by King Philip II of Spain, Menéndez led military expeditions in the region and focused on converting the local Indigenous populations to Christianity. His tenure marked the beginning of a structured Spanish presence in Florida.
Established St. Augustine, Florida in 1565
Served as the first Spanish Governor of Florida
Other People Born on February 15th
David Degen
Swiss footballer, FC Basel player
Born
February 15th, 1983 42 years ago
A professional footballer from Switzerland, played as a winger. Began career at FC Basel, where significant contributions were made to the team's success. Later played for several clubs in Switzerland and abroad, including a stint in England. Achieved recognition in domestic leagues and participated in European competitions. Represented the national team at youth levels and contributed to the senior team during international fixtures.
Continue ReadingDucky Detweiler
Baseball player and manager, MLB
Born
February 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder. Managed in the minor leagues after a playing career. Contributed to the development of players and teams through managerial roles. His career spanned over several decades in baseball.
Continue ReadingBrandon Boyd
American singer-songwriter and musician
Born
February 15th, 1976 49 years ago
A singer-songwriter and musician, contributions included work as the lead vocalist for the rock band Incubus. The band gained popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s with multiple albums achieving commercial success. Boyd also pursued a solo career, releasing music that showcased different musical styles. Additionally, he is recognized for his visual art, with works exhibited in galleries.
Continue ReadingÁngel Sepúlveda
Professional footballer, striker
Born
February 15th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in 1991, a Mexican footballer played predominantly as a striker. His career included notable stints with Club Santos Laguna and Club Atlético Morelia in the Liga MX. Displays of skill and goal-scoring ability contributed to team successes and individual accolades.
Continue ReadingTomislav Nikolić
Politician and 4th President of Serbia
Born
February 15th, 1952 73 years ago
Served as the 4th President of Serbia from 2012 to 2017. Played a significant role in Serbian politics, especially as a member of the Serbian Progressive Party, which he co-founded. Before the presidency, served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. Focused on reforms and European Union integration during tenure as president.
Continue ReadingMatt Duffer
Film director and producer of Stranger Things
Born
February 15th, 1984 41 years ago
A director, writer, and producer focused on television and film, created the Netflix series 'Stranger Things' alongside a brother. This series gained critical acclaim and a strong fan following, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Contributions to the series involved writing, directing, and producing several episodes. In addition, worked on projects such as 'Wayward Pines'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 17th
Wakachichibu Komei
Japanese sumo wrestler and champion
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent sumo wrestler who achieved the rank of komusubi. Competed in the top division of sumo and earned significant accolades throughout career. Made notable contributions to the world of sumo wrestling during tenure. Achieved a strong reputation in the sport and was regarded as a skilled competitor by peers and fans alike.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Dutton
Australian historian and author
Born
August 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1922, a prominent historian and author in Australia. Focused on Australian history, literature, and biographies. Authored several significant works, including studies on notable historical figures and social commentary. Contributed to understanding of cultural narratives within Australia through literary critiques and historical analysis. Influenced scholarly approaches to Australian identity and culture, promoting discourse in academic and public spheres.
Continue ReadingSigge Parling
Swedish footballer and national team player
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 80 years old
A Swedish footballer played as a defender primarily for Hammarby IF. Represented the Swedish national team, contributing to international competitions. Enjoyed a lengthy club career, with notable stints at Hammarby IF, where he established himself as a key player. In later years, also played for local clubs in Sweden, showcasing leadership skills and dedication to the sport before retirement.
Continue ReadingNeil King Jr.
Journalist and author of political works
Born
July 27th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 65 years old
This journalist served as a reporter and editor for various prominent publications, including The Wall Street Journal. Specializing in political coverage, he provided insights and analyses of major national and international events. Alongside journalistic endeavors, authored significant books that explore political themes and the current state of America. Contributed to a better understanding of political developments through detailed reporting and storytelling.
Continue ReadingBernie McGann
Saxophonist and composer, 'Swing Shift'
Born
June 22nd, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Australian saxophonist and composer, contributed to the jazz scene with unique improvisational style and compositions. Active from the 1960s, McGann became a significant figure in the Australian jazz community. Formed several groups and collaborated with many artists, influential in developing the local jazz identity. His work included performances at various festivals and appearances on numerous recordings. McGann's album 'Swing Shift' showcases his original compositions and distinctive sound. He received several accolades throughout his career, celebrating his contributions to music.
Continue ReadingLarry Lake
Trumpet player and jazz composer
Born
July 2nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1943, this musician gained prominence in jazz music as a trumpet player and composer. Early in life, an affinity for music emerged, leading to extensive collaborations with various musicians. Significant contributions were made to the jazz genre, both as a solo artist and within ensembles. The musician's distinct style and improvisational skills brought a unique flavor to performances. Recordings showcase a talent for blending traditional jazz with contemporary influences, often reflecting a deep appreciation for musical heritage. Notable collaborations included work with renowned jazz artists, contributing significantly to live performances and recordings.
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