Siegbert Tarrasch
German chess player and theoretician
A prominent chess player and theoretician, contributed significantly to chess strategy and education. Established a reputation through competitive play in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Authored several influential chess books, which helped shape modern chess understanding. Played a vital role in popularizing chess during this era, fostering its growth as a competitive discipline.
Developed the Tarrasch Defense
Won the German Championship multiple times
Achieved high placements in international tournaments
Other People Born on March 5th
Heitor Villa-Lobos
Brazilian composer and guitarist
Born
March 5th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1959 66 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent Brazilian composer and guitarist, contributed significantly to the development of Brazilian classical music. Composed a vast array of works including orchestral pieces, chamber music, and choral music that integrated Brazilian folk elements. Studied under notable mentors and became a key figure in modern classical music in Brazil. Served as the director of the Department of Music of the Ministry of Education and Culture in Brazil. Internationally recognized for bringing Brazilian music to the global stage.
Continue ReadingJan van Beveren
Dutch footballer and coach, PSV Eindhoven
Born
March 5th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2011 14 years ago — 63 years old
A Dutch footballer and coach began a career as a goalkeeper. Played for several clubs, most notably PSV Eindhoven, contributing to the team's success during the 1970s. After retiring from professional play, transitioned into coaching, where experience as a player informed coaching strategies. Known for leadership in training sessions and player development.
Continue ReadingGerardus Mercator
Flemish cartographer and mathematician
Born
March 5th, 1512 513 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1594 431 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Flanders, this mathematician and cartographer developed a new method for representing the spherical earth on a flat surface. His 1569 world map introduced the Mercator projection, which became widely used in navigation due to its ability to represent lines of constant course. Apart from cartography, engaged in philosophical inquiry and mathematical studies that contributed to the fields of geography and navigation. The impact of this work extended beyond his lifetime, cementing a significant place in the history of map-making.
Continue ReadingMason Plumlee
Professional basketball player, NBA
Born
March 5th, 1990 35 years ago
Professional basketball player participated in the NBA, playing as a center. Played college basketball at Duke University, contributing to the team's 2010 NCAA Championship victory. Drafted 22nd overall in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Brooklyn Nets. Competed for several teams including the Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets, and Denver Nuggets. Achieved personal career highs in various statistical categories throughout the seasons.
Continue ReadingHarry Lawson
Australian Politician and Premier
Born
March 5th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1952 73 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1875, served as the 27th Premier of Victoria from 1913 to 1914. His tenure was marked by significant social and economic reforms. Actively involved in the development of infrastructure and public services, which shaped the state’s growth during the early 20th century. Previously held various positions within the Victorian Parliament. Engaged in politics during a transformative period, contributing to both policy-making and legislative advancements.
Continue ReadingDaniil Trifonov
Pianist and composer, International Piano Competition winner
Born
March 5th, 1991 34 years ago
A pianist and composer, this individual achieved recognition in the world of classical music. Won the International Tchaikovsky Competition in 2011, showcasing exceptional talent at a young age. Pursued further education at the Curtis Institute of Music and performed with major orchestras worldwide. Known for captivating performances that blend technical precision with emotional depth. Composed original works, receiving accolades for both performance and composition.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 17th
Albert I of Belgium
King of Belgium and World War I leader
Born
April 8th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1934 91 years ago — 58 years old
Albert I served as the king of Belgium from 1909 until his death in 1934. His reign was marked by significant events, particularly during World War I, when Belgium was invaded by Germany in 1914. Albert I demonstrated strong leadership, mobilizing the Belgian army and maintaining resistance against German forces. After the war, he worked on rebuilding the war-torn nation and focused on promoting national unity. His commitment to reform and social justice during the interwar period earned him respect among the populace. Albert I died while climbing in the Ardennes mountains, leading to an outpouring of national mourning.
Continue ReadingGeronimo
American tribal leader and warrior
Born
1829 196 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1909 116 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent leader of the Apache tribe, played a significant role in the resistance against Mexico and Texas during the Apache Wars. Renowned for guerrilla warfare tactics and strong leadership, confronted U.S. military forces during a series of conflicts. After years of conflict and evasion, surrendered to American troops in 1886. Later became a symbol of Native American resistance and was portrayed in various cultural contexts.
Continue ReadingBerry L. Cannon
American aquanaut and ocean researcher
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1969 56 years ago — 34 years old
Pioneered deep-sea exploration and contributed to the understanding of underwater habitats. Participated in the Hydra Project in the 1960s, which focused on the effects of pressure on human physiology. Conducted various experiments to explore underwater living conditions. Contributed to advancements in underwater diving technology and oceanographic research. Worked towards improving the safety and effectiveness of underwater operations.
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 ReadingRobert H. Michel
American politician and House Minority Leader
Born
March 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2017 8 years ago — 93 years old
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.
Continue ReadingGiordano 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.
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