Robert H. Michel
American politician and House Minority Leader
Served as a U.S. Representative from Illinois from 1971 to 1995. Held the position of House Minority Leader from 1981 to 1995, representing the Republican Party during a period of significant political change. Played a key role in various legislative efforts and was involved in budget negotiations. Retired after 24 years in Congress and contributed to various organizations and initiatives post-retirement.
Served as House Minority Leader from 1981 to 1995
Represented Illinois's 18th congressional district
Other People Born on March 2nd
Pope Leo XIII
Pope and author of Rerum Novarum
Born
March 2nd, 1810 215 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 93 years old
Served as the head of the Catholic Church from 1878 to 1903. Notable for significant engagement with contemporary social issues, he authored the encyclical Rerum Novarum in 1891, which addressed the rights of workers and capitalism's effects on society. Focused on the relationship between the church and modern society, and promoted the principles of social justice. Advocated for education, particularly for the clergy, to effectively address issues of the time.
Continue ReadingPaul Farrelly
English journalist and politician
Born
March 2nd, 1962 63 years ago
Born in 1962, a career in journalism included work for several major publications before entering politics. Served as a Member of Parliament representing Newcastle-under-Lyme from 2001 to 2017. Advocated for various issues during tenure and engaged in political commentary after leaving office.
Continue ReadingNicholas Pocock
English naval painter, known for naval scenes
Born
March 2nd, 1740 285 years ago
Died
1821 204 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1740, Pocock specialized in naval painting and became known for his detailed depictions of British naval battles. His works primarily focused on the nautical engagements of the British Royal Navy during the 18th century. Pocock's paintings were characterized by their dynamic compositions and meticulous attention to the intricacies of ships and the sea. He worked as an official marine painter for the British Admiralty and captured distinct events from the Napoleonic Wars. His artworks contributed to the documentation and appreciation of maritime history.
Continue ReadingAbdelaziz Bouteflika
Algerian politician, 5th President
Born
March 2nd, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2021 4 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 5th President of Algeria from 1999 to 2019. Bouteflika participated in the Algerian War of Independence against French colonial rule. Held various ministerial positions prior to his presidency, including Minister of Foreign Affairs. Implemented policies aimed at national reconciliation and economic reform during his tenure. Reelected multiple times, faced significant protests against his rule in 2019, leading to his resignation.
Continue ReadingThomas Bodley
English diplomat and scholar, Bodleian Library
Born
March 2nd, 1545 480 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1613 412 years ago — 67 years old
An English diplomat and scholar, established the Bodleian Library at the University of Oxford. This library became one of the most important research libraries in the world. Bodley was educated at Merton College, Oxford, and initially served as a diplomat, representing England in various missions. After a period of travel in Europe, he returned to Oxford with the intent of revitalizing the library there after it fell into disrepair following the dissolution of the monasteries. The Bodleian Library opened its doors in 1602, providing access to valuable texts and manuscripts and setting a precedent for library collections in higher education.
Continue ReadingWillis H. O'Brien
Animator and director of 'King Kong'
Born
March 2nd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 76 years old
Pioneered stop-motion animation techniques. Worked on major films, including the original 'King Kong' in 1933, setting new standards in visual effects. Collaborated with various studios throughout his career, including RKO Pictures. Contributed to the art of animation and storytelling through innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 17th
Giordano Bruno
Italian philosopher and cosmologist
Born
1548 477 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1600 425 years ago — 52 years old
An Italian mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher, contributed to the development of modern thought through the concept of an infinite universe and the idea of multiple worlds. Engaged in debates regarding the nature of the universe, advocating for heliocentrism long before its widespread acceptance. His ideas challenged the geocentric models of the cosmos and often placed him at odds with the Catholic Church. Bruno's work included philosophical dialogues and theological writings that blended ideas from different cultures, particularly Neoplatonism and Hermeticism. He was tried for heresy and executed in 1600, martyring his views on free thought and scientific inquiry.
Continue ReadingAl-Tabari
Persian scholar and historical writer
Died
February 17th, 923 1102 years ago — None years old
Born in 839, this scholar made significant contributions to history and exegesis. His major work, 'History of Prophets and Kings,' is an extensive chronicle of Islamic history and provides valuable insights into early Islamic society and events. The scholar also wrote a renowned commentary on the Quran, which has been influential in the field of Islamic studies. His works were widely used by later historians and scholars.
Continue ReadingJuan de Mariana
Spanish historian and theologian
Born
1536 489 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1624 401 years ago — 88 years old
A Spanish priest and historian played a significant role in the historiography of Spain during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Known for influential works, particularly 'Historia de España,' which provided a comprehensive account of Spain's history from its origins to the late 16th century. The work combined chronological narrative with commentary on political and social issues. Additionally, involvement in the Jesuit order contributed to discussions on theology and history, highlighting the complexities of governance and religion during the period. Through writings, addressed the moral and political implications of historical events, shaping perceptions of the past in Spain.
Continue ReadingMaría de las Mercedes Barbudo
Puerto Rican political activist
Born
1773 252 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1849 176 years ago — 76 years old
A political activist emerged as the first woman Independentista in Puerto Rico. Advocated for the independence of Puerto Rico from Spanish colonial rule and participated in various movements to promote political autonomy. Barbudo was involved in organizing efforts to resist colonialism, fostering a spirit of nationalism among the island's population. Despite facing significant challenges due to gender and political climate, played a crucial role in the early stages of Puerto Rican political activism.
Continue ReadingJohn M. Allegro
English archaeologist and biblical scholar
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 65 years old
An archaeologist and biblical scholar focused on the Dead Sea Scrolls. Played a significant role in the translation and interpretation of the scrolls, contributing to the understanding of early Jewish and Christian texts. Contributed to various academic discussions regarding ancient religion and its cultural impacts. Published numerous works exploring the intersection of archaeology and scripture.
Continue ReadingSeif Sharif Hamad
Tanzanian politician and opposition leader
Born
October 22nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2021 4 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the main opposition leader in Tanzania for many years. Engaged in politics through the Civic United Front (CUF), a significant party that advocated for democratic reforms. Ran for the presidency in multiple elections, challenging the ruling party's dominance. Worked actively to promote political dialogue and reforms in Tanzania, particularly in Zanzibar, emphasizing issues of governance and human rights.
Continue Reading