Sammy Baugh
American football player and coach
Played as a quarterback for the Washington Redskins from 1937 to 1952. Achieved three NFL championships in 1937, 1942, and 1943. Also served as a coach after retirement from playing, influencing the game through his strategic insights and leadership. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.
Led Washington Redskins to three NFL titles
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Other People Born on March 17th
Patrick Cantlay
Professional Golfer with PGA Tour wins
Born
March 17th, 1992 33 years ago
This professional golfer has achieved significant success on the PGA Tour. Winning the prestigious 2021 Tour Championship, established a reputation as a leading player in professional golf. Secured multiple victories, showcasing consistent performance in tournaments. Prior to turning professional, achieved remarkable success in amateur golf, including winning the 2011 U.S. Amateur Championship. Continues to compete at the highest levels of the sport, contributing to the growing popularity of golf in the United States.
Continue ReadingChris Copeland
Basketball player and coach
Born
March 17th, 1984 41 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of Michigan and later at the University of New York. Entered the NBA in 2012, playing for the New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, and Milwaukee Bucks. Achieved personal bests during the 2012-2013 NBA season, especially for the Knicks. Transitioned to coaching roles after retirement, focusing on player development and training.
Continue ReadingRyan White
Canadian ice hockey player and teammate
Born
March 17th, 1988 37 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1990 35 years ago — 2 years old
Ryan White played ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted in 2006, he made his professional debut with the Montreal Canadiens. Throughout his career, he contributed to various teams, showcasing skills as a forward. He played in notable playoff appearances and was recognized for his tenacity and work ethic on the ice. White also spent time with teams such as the Philadelphia Flyers and the Winnipeg Jets, solidifying his role in the league.
Continue ReadingEmmanuel Sanders
American football wide receiver, Super Bowl champion
Born
March 17th, 1987 38 years ago
Started a professional football career in the NFL after being drafted in 2010. Played for several teams, most notably the Pittsburgh Steelers, where contributions helped secure a Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl XLV. Later played for the Denver Broncos, achieving another Super Bowl title in Super Bowl 50. Known for speed and route-running ability. Also played for the San Francisco 49ers and the New Orleans Saints.
Continue ReadingRory McGrath
Comedian and television personality
Born
March 17th, 1956 69 years ago
Born in 1956, this individual rose to prominence as a British comedian and television personality. Initial recognition came from appearances on comedy panels, particularly through a distinctive humor style. The show 'Three Men in a Boat,' based on the book by Jerome K. Jerome, showcased comedic adventures with notable figures. A successful writing career also unfolded, contributing to numerous publications and scripts for television. BBC collaborations further cemented a presence in British comedy. This figure continues to be associated with light-hearted wit and engaging television formats.
Continue ReadingCornelia Clapp
Marine Biologist and Naturalist
Born
March 17th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1934 90 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1849, a prominent marine biologist focused on the study of marine life and environmental impacts on oceans. Contributed significantly to the development of marine biology as a scientific discipline in the United States. Served as the first female instructor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, influencing many students and researchers in the field. Published numerous scientific papers, particularly on the taxonomy and ecology of mollusks. Actively involved in various scientific organizations, advocating for women's involvement in science.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba
Queen and diplomat of Ndongo
Born
1583 442 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1663 361 years ago — 80 years old
Ruled as the Queen of Ndongo and Matamba during the 17th century. Engaged in resistance against Portuguese colonization in Angola. Established diplomatic relations with various European powers and advocated for her people's autonomy. Played a significant role in the political landscape of her time, navigating complex alliances and conflicts to strengthen her kingdoms. Successfully led military campaigns against Portuguese forces, displaying strategic acumen in protecting her territory and sovereignty.
Continue ReadingWilliam Shiels
Politician and 16th Premier of Victoria
Born
December 3rd, 1848 177 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1904 120 years ago — 56 years old
Born in Ireland and emigrated to Australia, Shiels became a prominent politician in Victoria. He served as the 16th Premier of Victoria from 1892 to 1893. His time in office was marked by efforts to improve social services and infrastructure in the region. Throughout a long political career, Shiels held various positions in the Victorian government, contributing to legislative developments in the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingJennifer Jones
American actress, Oscar winner for "The Song of Bernadette"
Born
March 2nd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2009 15 years ago — 90 years old
An accomplished actress in American cinema, recognized for a career that spanned several decades. Featured in critically acclaimed films such as "The Song of Bernadette," which earned an Academy Award for Best Actress. Starred in major productions like "Duel in the Sun" and "Love is a Many-Splendored Thing." Established a prominent presence in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s, known for her exceptional acting ability and on-screen charisma. Received multiple nominations and awards throughout her career, solidifying her status as one of the leading actresses of her time.
Continue ReadingHarold Holt
Australian Prime Minister during 1966-67
Born
August 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1967 57 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the 17th Prime Minister of Australia from 1966 until disappearance in 1967. Before becoming Prime Minister, held various ministerial positions including Minister for Labour and National Service and Minister for Immigration. Expanded the country's involvement in the Vietnam War and introduced significant reforms in education and immigration policy. Holt's tenure is notably marked by his push for a new Liberal Party agenda and closer ties with the United States during the Cold War.
Continue ReadingLeopold II of Belgium
Belgian King and Congo Free State founder
Born
April 9th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1909 115 years ago — 74 years old
Reigned as King of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909. Established the Congo Free State as a personal possession, which was marked by extensive exploitation of natural resources and forced labor. Under his rule, significant economic development occurred in the region, but at a devastating cost to the local population.
Continue ReadingThomas Mitchell
Actor, singer, screenwriter; Stagecoach
Born
July 11th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1962 62 years ago — 70 years old
An American actor, singer, and screenwriter, recognized for a prolific career in film, television, and theater. Appeared in the 1939 Western film 'Stagecoach,' playing the character Doc Boone, which became a significant part of cinematic history. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'The Heirs of Rassendyll' in 1931. His work in multiple genres earned acclaim and led to enduring popularity.
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