Skanderbeg

Albanian military leader and noble

Skanderbeg - Military & Warriors born 1405
Born

1405
620 years ago

Died
Category

Military & Warriors

Country

Albania

Links & References

A key figure in the resistance against Ottoman conquest in the 15th century. Established himself as a prominent military commander after declaring war against the Ottomans in 1443. Led a coalition of Albanian principalities, maintaining autonomy and launching numerous successful campaigns. Adopted the title of 'Lord of Albania' and sought to unify the Albanian people against foreign invasion. After his death, his legacy continued to inspire future generations in the struggle for independence.

Successfully defended Albania against the Ottomans

Established a unified Albanian principality

Crowned as the Prince of Albania

Other People Who Died on January 17th

Didier Guillaume

French politician, Minister of State of Monaco
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2025 0 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the Minister of State of Monaco, overseeing governmental functions and policy formulation. Played a pivotal role in the administration, managing relations with the French government and European Union. Held various positions within the French government prior to the role in Monaco, contributing to regional development and governance. His tenure included addressing economic challenges and promoting Monaco's interests on the international stage.

Continue Reading

Hermann Schlegel

Ornithologist and herpetologist
Born
June 10th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1884 141 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed to the fields of ornithology and herpetology in the 19th century. Mainly focused on the study of birds and reptiles, and published significant works on their classification and biology. Served as a curator at the Natural History Museum in Berlin, where substantial collections were researched and documented. Notable for contributions to the understanding of avian and reptilian species which influenced future studies in these areas.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Simcoe

English-Canadian painter and author
Born
September 22nd, 1762 263 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1850 175 years ago — 87 years old

An English-Canadian artist and writer, this individual contributed significantly to the visual records of early 19th-century life in Canada. Works include detailed sketches and paintings depicting landscapes and Indigenous peoples, providing insight into the life and environment of the time. As the wife of John Graves Simcoe, the first Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, interactions with prominent figures in colonial history influenced artistic output. The published writings include travel narratives that reflect personal experiences and observations of Canadian geography and society.

Continue Reading

Walther von Reichenau

German Field Marshal during WWII
Born
October 8th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1942 83 years ago — 57 years old

Served as a field marshal in the German Army during World War II. Commanded the 6th Army and participated in significant operations, including the Battle of Stalingrad. Noted for strategic decisions and operational leadership in the Eastern Front campaigns. Held a prominent position within the Nazi military hierarchy until death in 1942.

Continue Reading

Camilo José Cela

Spanish author, Nobel Prize winner
Born
May 11th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old

An influential Spanish author and politician, this individual contributed significantly to literature during the 20th century. Esteemed for a unique style, which blended realism and experimentation, the literary work often addressed themes of human existence and societal challenges. Most recognized for the novel 'The Family of Pascual Duarte', which laid the groundwork for contemporary Spanish literature. Apart from literary endeavors, also undertook a role in politics, serving as a senator in the Spanish government. The recognition culminated in receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1989 for an oeuvre that encompassed novels, essays, and poetry. This person's legacy continues to influence Spanish literature and culture.

Continue Reading

Jyoti Basu

Indian politician and Chief Minister
Born
July 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the 9th Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1977 to 2000. Played a significant role in the Indian political landscape, particularly as a leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Led a government that was one of the longest-serving democratically elected communist governments in the world. Instrumental in promoting social welfare programs and agrarian reforms in the state, impacting the lives of many citizens. Resigned from the role in 2000 and became an influential figure in Indian politics until his death in 2010.

Continue Reading