Peter III of Russia
Emperor of Russia, reigned briefly in 1762
Became Emperor of Russia in January 1762 after the assassination of Empress Elizabeth. His reign lasted only six months, concluding with his overthrow in a coup d'état led by his wife, Catherine the Great. Peter III's policies favored Prussia, which was unpopular among Russian nobles. Attempts to reform the military and reduce serfdom faced resistance. After his abdication, he was imprisoned and later died under mysterious circumstances. His brief reign marked a significant transition in Russian leadership.
Established a government reform agenda
Attempted to end the war with Prussia
Supported the Orthodox Church
Reduced the power of the nobility
Other People Born on February 21st
Ji So-yun
South Korean footballer, Chelsea FC midfielder
Born
February 21st, 1991 35 years ago
Played for the South Korean national team and Chelsea FC as a midfielder. Achieved significant success in both domestic and international competitions. Competed in multiple FIFA Women's World Cups, showcasing talent on a global stage. Contributed to Chelsea FC's victories, including league titles and cup competitions during tenure.
Continue ReadingAlan Trammell
Baseball player and manager for the Tigers
Born
February 21st, 1958 68 years ago
Played shortstop for the Detroit Tigers from 1977 to 1996, contributing to the team during its 1984 World Series championship. Transitioned to coaching and managing, leading the Tigers for part of the 2014 season. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2018, recognizing a successful career in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingDouglas Bader
World War II Fighter Pilot
Born
February 21st, 1910 116 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1982 44 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II. After losing both legs in a flying accident, continued to fly operational missions. Escaped from a German POW camp and returned to service. Bader became a prominent figure in British aviation and a symbol of resilience.
Continue ReadingJean Tatlock
American psychiatrist and physician
Born
February 21st, 1914 112 years ago
Died
1944 82 years ago — 30 years old
Contributed to psychiatry and the understanding of mental illness. Focused on psychoanalysis and its application in clinical practice. Engaged in research related to the intersection of psychology and human behavior. Had significant involvement in the intellectual circles of the mid-20th century. Advocated for mental health awareness and the importance of psychiatric treatment.
Continue ReadingBrad Fast
Canadian ice hockey player
Born
February 21st, 1980 46 years ago
Born in 1980, an ice hockey player specialized in defense. Played for the University of Alberta Golden Bears and contributed to their success in collegiate hockey. Later participated in various professional leagues, including the ECHL and CHL, showcasing skills in defensive play. Recognized for contributions to team success and development of younger players.
Continue ReadingJeanne Calment
French super-centenarian, oldest verified person
Born
February 21st, 1875 151 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1997 29 years ago — 122 years old
Born in 1875, lived for 122 years, maintaining extensive records throughout her life. Worked as a shopkeeper and painter. Gained international recognition for longevity in the late 20th century. Resided in Arles, France, and became a subject of various studies on aging. Her life spanned significant historical events, including both World Wars and advances in technology and culture.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 17th
Júlio Redecker
Brazilian politician and legislator
Born
1956 70 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2007 19 years ago — 51 years old
Served as a federal deputy in Brazil from 1995 until 2007. Played a significant role in Brazilian politics, representing the state of Rio Grande do Sul. His legislative focus included infrastructure and transport issues. Redecker was also a member of the Brazilian Democratic Movement.
Continue ReadingKonstantine Gamsakhurdia
Georgian author and playwright
Born
May 3rd, 1893 133 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1975 51 years ago — 82 years old
An influential Georgian author and playwright contributed significantly to Georgian literature. Involved in various literary movements, he blended drama with national themes, reflecting the societal changes of his time. Received recognition for works that explored the complexities of Georgian identity and culture. Active in the 20th century, produced numerous writings that emphasized the importance of the Georgian language and heritage.
Continue ReadingSam Myers
American blues singer-songwriter
Born
February 19th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2006 20 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent blues artist in the American music scene, contributed to the Delta blues tradition. Collaborated with notable musicians and bands throughout a lengthy career. Gained recognition for soulful vocals and harmonica playing. Released several albums, showcasing original compositions and classic blues standards. Performed extensively, earning respect in the blues community.
Continue ReadingMaud Menten
Canadian physician and biochemist
Born
March 20th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1960 66 years ago — 81 years old
Contributions to biochemistry included work on enzyme kinetics and histochemistry. Collaborated with Leonor Michaelis to describe the Michaelis-Menten equation, a foundational principle in enzyme kinetics. Menten's research also advanced understanding of enzyme reactions and tissue staining techniques. Held a faculty position at the University of Toronto and published many scientific papers throughout a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingElaine Stritch
American actress and singer on Broadway
Born
February 2nd, 1925 101 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2014 12 years ago — 89 years old
A celebrated actress and singer, this individual gained prominence in the Broadway theatre scene. Her performances showcased a distinctive blend of talent and personality. Significant roles included appearances in the musicals 'Company' and 'Growing Up', as well as her one-woman show 'Elaine Stritch at Liberty', which highlighted her life and career. In television, a memorable role occurred in the series '30 Rock', where the character Colleen Donaghy became notable. Recognized for a commanding stage presence, contributions spanned multiple decades beginning in the 1940s into the 21st century.
Continue ReadingEmpress Dowager of the Song Dynasty
Empress Dowager of the Song dynasty
Died
July 17th, 961 1065 years ago — None years old
Served as empress dowager during the Song dynasty. Held significant political power after the death of her husband, Emperor Taizu. Managed state affairs and influenced key decisions during her regency. Contributed to the establishment and stabilization of the Song dynasty's governance.
Continue Reading