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
Manuel Lanzini
Argentine footballer with West Ham United
Born
February 15th, 1993 33 years ago
This Argentine footballer began his career in River Plate's youth system before joining the senior team. After a successful loan spell at UAE club Al Jazira, he returned to Europe with West Ham United, where he showcased his skills in the Premier League. He also contributed significantly to the Argentine national team, featuring prominently in various international competitions.
Continue ReadingPapu Gómez
Argentine footballer and Atalanta player
Born
February 15th, 1988 38 years ago
A footballer recognized for his playmaking abilities and technical skills. Played for several clubs including Arsenal de Sarandí, Catania, and Atalanta. Achieved success in Serie A with Atalanta, contributing to the team's strong performances in domestic and European competitions. Also represented the Argentine national team, participating in major tournaments such as the Copa América and FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingRoss Duffer
Film director and producer, Stranger Things
Born
February 15th, 1984 42 years ago
A film director, writer, and producer, achieved recognition for creating the television series 'Stranger Things'. The series debuted on Netflix in 2016 and quickly gained a large following, praised for its nostalgic references to 1980s pop culture. Alongside collaborative efforts with his brother, they co-created several episodes and served as showrunners, significantly influencing modern sci-fi and horror genres in television. Additionally, produced the series 'Wayward Pines' and worked on various projects within the film industry, showcasing a focus on storytelling that blends elements of horror and adventure.
Continue ReadingCharles Lewis Tiffany
Businessman, founder of Tiffany & Co.
Born
February 15th, 1812 214 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1902 124 years ago — 90 years old
Founded Tiffany & Co. in 1837, establishing a premier luxury jewelry and specialty retailer. Expanded the company’s product line to include silverware and home goods. Revolutionized the diamond industry by popularizing the use of the Tiffany Setting for engagement rings. Played a key role in promoting high-quality gems and is credited with the introduction of the Blue Box branding.
Continue ReadingRui Patrício
Portuguese football goalkeeper
Born
February 15th, 1988 38 years ago
A professional football goalkeeper born in 1988, had a career that included significant contributions to multiple clubs and the national team. Started the professional career at Sporting CP, where he won the Taça de Portugal and Taça da Liga. Transferred to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2018, contributing to the team's promotion to the Premier League. Represented the national team in several tournaments including the UEFA Euro 2016, where the team secured the championship title.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Kondogbia
Professional footballer, Valencia CF
Born
February 15th, 1993 33 years ago
Born in Central African Republic, a professional footballer began a career in Europe with a focus in midfield roles. Initial steps in professional football occurred at Lens, where impressive performances led to a transfer to Sevilla FC. Later joined AS Monaco and contributed to winning the Ligue 1 title in the 2016–17 season. Subsequently signed by Inter Milan, played in Serie A before transferring to Valencia CF in La Liga. Represented the national team and partook in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 17th
Kristian Gidlund
Swedish drummer and journalist
Born
1983 43 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 30 years old
Contributed as a drummer for the band 'Shed Seven', participating in significant performances and recordings. Worked as a journalist and wrote reflective pieces on life and mortality, particularly after a cancer diagnosis. His writing explored themes of existence, loss, and the human experience, resonating with many readers. Continued to create music and literature until untimely death in 2013.
Continue ReadingBahman Golbarnezhad
Iranian racing cyclist, Paralympic athlete
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 48 years old
An accomplished racing cyclist, achieved success in para-cycling competitions and represented Iran at the Paralympic Games. Competed in road racing events, showcasing skills on an international stage. Tragically passed away during the 2016 Rio Paralympics, leaving a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingPeter von Bagh
Finnish historian and film director
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 71 years old
Contributed significantly to film scholarship and criticism in Finland. Served as the director of the Finnish Film Archive. Worked extensively in television and cinema, creating a lasting legacy through various documentaries and features. Notable for crafting insightful narratives about film history and culture, receiving acclaim for his work as a screenwriter and director. Pioneered educational initiatives related to the film industry in Finland.
Continue ReadingJD Souther
Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
November 2nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
Singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor contributed significantly to the music scene. Collaborated with artists such as Linda Ronstadt and the Eagles, writing several well-received songs. Achieved commercial success in the 1970s and 1980s with a blend of country-rock and pop influences. Also appeared in television and film, notably in roles in series like 'Thirtysomething' and the movie 'The Last of the Blue Devils.' Continues to perform and release new music.
Continue ReadingChina Zorrilla
Uruguayan actress in film and theater
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
Gained recognition for extensive work in film and theater. Starred in the films 'La casa de los espíritus' and 'El lado oscuro del corazón'. Contributed significantly to the Uruguayan theatrical scene, performing numerous plays and influencing future generations of actors. Received critical acclaim for performances that showcased versatility and depth. Worked in various projects across different genres, gaining a reputation as a prominent figure in Latin American cinema.
Continue ReadingMichael J. Noonan
Irish politician and Minister of Defence
Born
August 4th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 25th Minister of Defence in Ireland. Held the position from 1981 to 1982, contributing to national security and defence policy. Engaged in various local political roles throughout a lengthy career, focusing on agricultural and rural affairs. Contributed to the development of legislation aimed at supporting farmers and the agricultural sector.
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