Robert Bolling

Colonial planter and merchant

Robert Bolling - Colonial planter and merchant
Born

December 26th, 1646
378 years ago

Died

July 17th, 1709
316 years ago — 62 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

A merchant and planter in colonial Virginia, played a significant role in the economy of the region. Managed multiple plantations and engaged in trade, which contributed to the growth of the Virginia colony. Established a family legacy through marriage to Jane Rolfe, the granddaughter of Pocahontas, further linking the Bolling family to notable historical figures in American history. In his lifetime, contributed to the agricultural practices in Virginia, especially in tobacco cultivation.

Managed multiple plantations in Virginia

Married Jane Rolfe, granddaughter of Pocahontas

Other People Born on December 26th

Elisabeth of the Palatinate

German philosopher and Calvinist thinker
Born
December 26th, 1618 406 years ago
Died
1680 345 years ago — 62 years old

Born into the court of the Palatinate, engaged in philosophical dialogues with prominent thinkers of the time. Focused on metaphysics, philosophy, and theology through correspondence, particularly with René Descartes. Contributed significantly to the intellectual landscape of early modern Europe. Maintained a strong Calvinist faith and fostered discussions around ethics and the nature of God.

Continue Reading

Simon Goodwin

Australian footballer and coach
Born
December 26th, 1976 48 years ago

Played Australian rules football for the Adelaide Crows in the Australian Football League (AFL). Won two premierships with the Crows in 1997 and 1998. After retirement, transitioned to coaching, taking charge of the Melbourne Football Club. Achieved success in mentoring and developing young players in the club's system.

Continue Reading

Arsenio Lacson

Filipino politician, Mayor of Manila
Born
December 26th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1962 63 years ago — 49 years old

Lacson served as the Mayor of Manila and significantly influenced the city's administration during his tenure. Elected as mayor in 1952, he was known for implementing a series of reforms aimed at improving urban infrastructure and public services. His leadership style attracted attention, and he became a prominent figure in Philippine politics. Lacson's tenure saw crucial developments in city planning and governance. Before becoming mayor, he also had a career in journalism, contributing to the discourse on social issues in the Philippines.

Continue Reading

Aksel Lund Svindal

Norwegian Alpine Ski Racer, Olympic Champion
Born
December 26th, 1982 42 years ago

Born in 1982, a remarkable career in Alpine skiing included successes in both the World Cup and Olympic Games. Achievements encompassed multiple World Championship titles and an Olympic gold medal. Notably, competed for Norway in various events, demonstrating exceptional skill in downhill and super-G disciplines. Retired after the 2019 season, leaving behind a legacy in the sport.

Continue Reading

Dion Boucicault

Irish actor and playwright
Born
December 26th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1890 134 years ago — 69 years old

An influential figure in 19th-century theater, contributed significantly to the development of modern melodrama. Wrote and produced several popular plays, including 'The Octoroon' and 'The Shaughraun'. Gained prominence for performances in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Also worked as a director and was involved in theatrical innovations of the time.

Continue Reading

Alejo Carpentier

Swiss-Cuban author and musicologist
Born
December 26th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1980 45 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Lausanne and raised in Havana, a prominent figure in Latin American literature emerged. Contributions to the genre of magical realism are significant, with the novel 'The Kingdom of This World' standing out as a pivotal work. Additionally, engaged in musical scholarship and journalism, offering insights into musicology from a Latin American perspective. The exploration of identity and history through literature defined much of the work. Moved to Paris in the 1920s, where interactions with various influential artists and intellectuals shaped literary style and thought. Returned to Cuba to support the revolutionary government and continued to produce influential works until death in 1980.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 17th

Boris Delaunay

Mathematician known for Delaunay triangulation
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1980 45 years ago — 90 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in topology and computational geometry. Developed the Delaunay triangulation, a fundamental structure in geometry that maximizes the minimum angle of triangles. Published works on the properties of polyhedra and Voronoi diagrams. Held a professorship and contributed to the education of future mathematicians.

Continue Reading

Jadwiga

Queen of Poland and Saint
Born
1374 651 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1399 626 years ago — 25 years old

Ascended to the throne of Poland in 1384, ruling as a powerful monarch. Introduced significant legal and educational reforms in the kingdom. Played a crucial role in the union between Poland and Lithuania, which shaped the future of Eastern Europe. Renowned for promoting Christianity and establishing the University of Kraków. Recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1997.

Continue Reading

Konstantine Gamsakhurdia

Georgian author and playwright
Born
May 3rd, 1893 132 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1975 50 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 Reading

Bernice Johnson Reagon

American singer-songwriter and activist
Born
October 4th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old

A significant figure in American music and social justice, contributed to the civil rights movement through song and leadership. Founder of the vocal group Sweet Honey in the Rock, which became a prominent ensemble performing African American spirituals and contemporary music. Worked with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) during the civil rights movement, advocating for social change and equality. Developed a career combining music and activism, utilizing song as a tool for education and social justice.

Continue Reading

Elaine Stritch

American actress and singer on Broadway
Born
February 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2014 11 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 Reading

Billie Holiday

Jazz Singer with 'Strange Fruit'
Born
April 7th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1959 66 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter and actress, celebrated for a unique vocal style and emotive delivery. Rose to fame in the 1930s, often performing in jazz clubs and on radio. Best recognized for the song 'Strange Fruit', which addressed the horrors of racism and lynching. Collaborated with notable musicians such as Lester Young and Count Basie, leaving an indelible mark on jazz music. Her work continues to influence contemporary artists and remains a pivotal figure in the genre's history.

Continue Reading