Saina Nehwal
Indian Badminton Champion and Olympic Medalist
Born in 1990, this badminton player achieved significant success in international competitions. She became the first Indian woman to win a medal in badminton at the Olympics, securing a bronze medal at the 2012 London Games. This player has also won numerous titles in various international tournaments, establishing a reputation as one of the world's top badminton athletes. Notably, this player won the prestigious Indonesia Open and was ranked world number one at different points in her career. Her contributions have significantly raised the profile of badminton in India.
Won a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics
Secured the 2010 Commonwealth Games gold medal
Achieved victory at the Indonesia Open multiple times
Ranked world number one in women's singles badminton
Other People Born on March 17th
Brigitte Helm
German-Swiss actress, Metropolis star
Born
March 17th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1996 29 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1908, an actress gained recognition primarily for portraying Maria in the silent film 'Metropolis' directed by Fritz Lang. This film released in 1927 became a landmark in cinematic history and showcased innovative special effects and production design. Helm also appeared in several other films throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s, contributing to the German film industry during that era. After transitioning away from the film industry in the late 1930s, she focused on her personal life and eventually moved to Switzerland. Her work remains influential in the realm of science fiction cinema.
Continue ReadingPatrick Brontë
Irish-English priest and author of poetry
Born
March 17th, 1777 249 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1861 164 years ago — 84 years old
A priest with a strong interest in literature, contributed significantly to the literary world through poetry and works that reflected on society and family. Authored several volumes of poetry, including 'The Cottage in the Wood' and 'On the Death of a Young Lady', demonstrating a thoughtful approach toward themes of nature and mortality. Additionally, served as a vicar in Haworth, England, where a familial literary legacy was cultivated through the notable works of his children, including Charlotte and Emily Brontë.
Continue ReadingWalter Rudolf Hess
Physiologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 17th, 1881 145 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1973 52 years ago — 92 years old
A Swiss physiologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of the brain and its functions. Conducted pioneering research on the hypothalamus, elucidating its role in regulating autonomic functions and behavior. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1949 for discoveries regarding the functional organization of the interbrain. Published numerous scientific papers and held prestigious academic positions throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingWilliam Gibson
Science fiction author and screenwriter
Born
March 17th, 1948 78 years ago
An author and screenwriter, explored themes of technology and society. Initiated the cyberpunk genre with the novel 'Neuromancer', published in 1984. 'Neuromancer' received the Hugo, Nebula, and Philip K. Dick awards. Provided a vision of the internet and virtual reality that has influenced numerous works in literature, film, and technology.
Continue ReadingCharles F. Brush
Inventor and businessman, Arc lamp co-inventor
Born
March 17th, 1849 177 years ago
Died
1929 97 years ago — 80 years old
A businessman and inventor, contributed to electrical lighting technology in the late 19th century. Co-invented the arc lamp, which played a significant role in outdoor and street lighting. Founded the Brush Electric Company, which focused on developing electric light systems. Involved in various philanthropic efforts throughout life, supporting education and science.
Continue ReadingMyrlie Evers-Williams
Journalist and civil rights activist
Born
March 17th, 1933 93 years ago
A prominent journalist and civil rights activist, this individual dedicated a significant portion of life to the fight for racial equality and social justice. After the assassination of her husband, Medgar Evers, in 1963, advocacy for civil rights intensified. She served as the chairman of the NAACP, becoming the first woman to hold this position. The individual also contributed to numerous publications, focusing on issues of race and justice, and was instrumental in the formation of various community and civil rights organizations. In 1996, she received the National Civil Rights Museum’s Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting contributions to the civil rights movement.
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