What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
Dec 17

2022 - The Legacy of P-22: LA's Beloved Mountain Lion

P-22, the famous mountain lion of Los Angeles, was put to sleep in 2022 due to age and injuries. His life and struggles brought significant attention to urban wildlife conservation and highlighted the need for coexistence between humans and nature.

2021 - Tribute to Harry Jacobs: An AFL Legend

Harry Jacobs, a celebrated AFL linebacker known for his time with the Buffalo Bills and Boston Patriots, passed away at 84. An All Star in 1965 and 1969, Jacobs' legacy includes two AFL Championships and a lasting impact on American football.

2019 - Karin Balzer: Remembering a Hurdling Legend

Karin Balzer, the renowned German athlete who won Olympic gold in the 80m hurdles in 1964 and bronze in the 100m hurdles in 1972, passed away in 2019 at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in athletics and inspiration for women in sport.

2016 - Death of Henry Heimlich

Henry Heimlich, a pioneering American surgeon and inventor of the Heimlich maneuver, passed away at the age of 96 on December 17, 2016. His life-saving techniques have made a lasting impact on emergency health practices.

2014 - The Life and Legacy of Fritz Rudolf Fries

Fritz Rudolf Fries, a notable German writer and Stasi informant, passed away in 2014 at the age of 79. He is remembered for his influential literary works that reflect on life in East Germany and the ethical complexities of his informant role.

2011 - Cesária Évora: The Barefoot Diva's Legacy

Cesária Évora, known as the Barefoot Diva, passed away on December 17, 2011, from respiratory failure. A iconic figure in Cape Verdean music, her soulful morna songs captured hearts worldwide, leaving a rich legacy of emotional artistry.

2008 - Remembering Sammy Baugh: A Legendary Quarterback

Sammy Baugh (1914-2008), a legendary quarterback known for his time at TCU and with the Washington Redskins, died at 94. A two-time NFL champion and a transformative figure in football, Baugh set records and earned numerous accolades during his remarkable career.

Remembering Sammy Baugh: A Legendary Quarterback

2006 - Remembering Denis Payton: A Saxophonist's Legacy

Denis Payton, the talented saxophonist from the iconic band Dave Clark Five, passed away due to cancer at the age of 63 in 2006. Remembered for his contributions to the British rock scene, his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.

2006 - Larry Sherry: A Baseball Legacy Remembered

Larry Sherry, an American baseball pitcher and World Series MVP for the LA Dodgers in 1959, passed away in 2006 at the age of 71. His contributions to baseball and legacy as a key player during a pivotal time for the Dodgers are remembered fondly.

2006 - Death of Timmie Rogers: A Comedic Legend

Timmie Rogers, the beloved comedian and actor from The Jackie Gleason Show, passed away at 91 in 2006. Known for his unforgettable performances and songs, Rogers left an enduring legacy in the world of entertainment.

2005 - Remembering Jack Anderson: The Legacy of a Journalism Icon

Jack Anderson, the influential American journalist from the Washington Post, passed away in 2005 at the age of 83. Known for his groundbreaking investigative reporting, Anderson's work shaped the realm of journalism and held those in power accountable. He left behind a legacy that continues to inspire journalists today.

2005 - The Legacy of Marc Favreau: A Canadian Humour Icon

Marc Favreau, a celebrated French Canadian humourist known for his captivating character 'Sol', passed away at the age of 76 in 2005. His legacy continues to inspire comedians and entertain audiences, marking an era of profound impact on Quebec's cultural landscape.

2003 - Remembering David Smith: A Legacy in English Cricket

David Smith, an esteemed English cricketer known for his exceptional fast-medium bowling, passed away in 2003 at the age of 69. His contributions to cricket and mentorship inspired future generations, earning him a revered place in the sport's history.

1999 - The Legacy of Rex Allen: The Arizona Cowboy

Rex Allen, the famed Arizona Cowboy and beloved country music singer-songwriter, passed away at the age of 78 in 1999. Known for his roles in western films and as Dr. Baxter in 'Frontier Doctor', his legacy continues to inspire the genre.

1997 - Remembering Reginald Victor Jones: The War Scientist

Reginald Victor Jones, a British scientist and military intelligence officer during WWII, passed away in 1997 at the age of 86. His innovations in radar technology and counterintelligence significantly influenced the war's outcome and left a lasting legacy in military science.

1996 - The Life and Legacy of Irving Caesar

Irving Caesar, a celebrated American lyricist and theater composer, passed away at the age of 101 in 1996. Known for iconic songs like 'Tea for Two' and 'Just A Gigolo', Caesar's legacy continues to influence music and theater.

1994 - Remembering Jan Wiegel: A Legacy in Film

Jan Wiegel, an influential director and producer known for the poignant film 'Uninhabitable Country', passed away at 64 in 1994. His work continues to resonate in the film industry, showcasing deep societal issues and unique cinematographic styles.

1993 - The Legacy of Janet Margolin: Remembering an Icon

Janet Margolin, the beloved American actress known for her roles in 'Annie Hall', 'Take the Money and Run', and 'David and Lisa', passed away from ovarian cancer on January 17, 1993, at the age of 50, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable performances.

1987 - The Death of Cardinal Bernardus Johannes Alfrink

Cardinal Bernardus Johannes Alfrink, the esteemed Dutch cardinal of Utrecht, passed away in 1987 at the age of 87. Known for his commitment to social justice and ecumenism, his legacy continues to impact the Catholic Church in the Netherlands.

1987 - The Life and Legacy of Marguerite Yourcenar

Marguerite Yourcenar, a pioneering French-American novelist, passed away in 1987. Best known for her works like 'Memoirs of Hadrian', she left a significant legacy in literature, intertwining history with deep philosophical insights.

1985 - The Life and Legacy of Otto Gotsche

Otto Gotsche was a celebrated writer whose work greatly impacted literature. He left behind a legacy of profound narratives that resonate with readers, even after his passing in 1985.

1983 - The Life and Career of Erik Christensen

Erik Christensen, born in 1983, is a notable NHL player known for his time with teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins and Atlanta Thrashers. His journey from a young Canadian boy to a professional hockey player inspires many aspiring athletes.

1982 - The Life and Legacy of Homer S. Ferguson

Homer S. Ferguson (1889-1982) was an influential American politician known for his advocacy for veterans and infrastructure during his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives. His contributions have left a lasting impact, showcasing his dedication to public service.

1982 - The Legacy of Philipp Jarnach: A Musical Journey

Philipp Jarnach, the esteemed French pianist and composer, passed away in 1982 at the age of 90. Renowned for his innovative compositions and impactful teaching at the Hamburg Music Academy, his legacy continues to inspire musicians today.

1981 - The Legacy of Edwin Erich Dwinger: A Life in Words

Edwin Erich Dwinger, a renowned German writer best known for his work 'General Vlassov', passed away in 1981 at the age of 83. His influential writings provided profound insights into the human experience during times of war and turmoil.

1978 - The Legacy of Don Ellis: A Jazz Icon

Don Ellis, a groundbreaking avant-garde jazz trumpeter and composer, passed away from a heart attack at just 44 years old in 1978. His innovative approach to jazz redefined the genre and left a lasting legacy, especially noted for his score in 'The French Connection.'

1975 - The Legacy of Noble Sissle: A Pioneer of Jazz

Noble Sissle, a pioneering jazz composer and playwright, died in 1975 at the age of 86. Known for his influential work in musicals like 'Shuffle Along' and the classic song 'I'm Just Wild About Harry', Sissle's contributions shaped the landscape of American music.

1973 - The Life and Legacy of Charles Greeley Abbot

Charles Greeley Abbot, a trailblazing American astronomer known for his work on the solar constant, passed away at the age of 101 in 1973, leaving a profound impact on the field of astronomy and our understanding of solar energy.

1972 - The Life and Legacy of Erwin Dressel

Erwin Dressel, a notable German composer, passed away in 1972 at the age of 63. His innovative contributions to classical music and his unique blend of styles left a profound impact on the music community, continuing to influence future generations.

1967 - The Life and Legacy of Jack Perrin

Jack Perrin, a renowned American actor known for his roles in western films, died of a heart attack at age 71 in 1967. His contributions to early American cinema are celebrated, leaving behind a rich legacy of over 100 films.

1962 - The Life and Legacy of Thomas Mitchell

Thomas Mitchell, an acclaimed American actor best known for his roles in 'Gone With The Wind' and 'High Noon', passed away from bone cancer in 1962 at the age of 70. His legacy as an Academy Award-winning performer continues to inspire.

1957 - Death of Dorothy L. Sayers: A Literary Icon

Dorothy L. Sayers, a major figure in English literature and author of the famed detective novel 'The Nine Tailors,' passed away in 1957 at 66. Her contributions to the genre revolutionized crime writing and left a lasting legacy.

1949 - The Life and Legacy of David Stanley Smith

David Stanley Smith, an influential American composer best known for his opera Merrymount, passed away in 1949. His innovative works and teaching greatly impacted the American music scene, leaving a legacy that inspires composers today.

1930 - The Tragic Death of Peter Warlock

Peter Warlock, born Philip Heseltine, was a prominent British composer whose life ended tragically in 1930 at the age of 36, believed to be a suicide. His contributions to music continue to resonate today, highlighting the complexities of artists and mental health.

1927 - The Legacy of Hubert Harrison: A Freedom Fighter's Demise in 1927

In 1927, the world mourned the passing of Hubert Harrison, a West Indian-American writer and freedom fighter, who died at 44. His extensive contributions to civil rights and social justice left a profound impact on future generations. Harrison's legacy continues to inspire activists striving for equality.

1925 - Remembering A. N. Hornby: A Dual Sports Legend

A. N. Hornby, a celebrated figure in English sports, was both a cricketer and rugby union player who passed away in 1925 at the age of 78. Known for his leadership in both sports, his legacy inspires future generations of athletes.

1917 - The Life and Legacy of Elizabeth Garrett Anderson

Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, the first qualified woman physician in Britain and the first female mayor of Aldeburgh, passed away at 81 in 1917. Her groundbreaking work paved the way for women in medicine and politics, and her legacy continues to inspire.

1907 - The Death of William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin

William Thomson, the 1st Baron Kelvin, notable Irish-Scottish physicist and engineer, died at age 83 in 1907. His contributions to the Kelvin Scale and the transatlantic telegraph have solidified his legacy in the scientific community.

The Death of William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin

1891 - The Death of Captain Omer Bodson in the Congo

In 1891, Belgian Captain Omer Bodson faced the formidable Msiri, ruler of the Garanganze Kingdom, during a battle in the Congo. His death marked a significant event in the struggle against colonial expansion in Africa, highlighting the fierce resistance from local rulers.

1857 - The Legacy of Francis Beaufort: A Pioneer in Hydrography

Francis Beaufort, an Irish admiral and respected hydrographer, passed away in 1857. Best known for creating the Beaufort wind force scale, his contributions significantly impacted maritime navigation and weather forecasting. His legacy continues to influence modern meteorology.

1833 - The Mysterious Death of Kaspar Hauser

Kaspar Hauser, a boy who claimed to have lived in a dark cell, was mysteriously murdered at the age of 21 in 1833. His life and death fuelled suspicions about his origins and left a legacy of intrigue in German history.

1679 - The Death of Don Juan, Ruler of Spain in 1679

In 1679, Don Juan, the ruler of Spain, passed away, leaving behind a complex legacy of governance and cultural influence. His death marked a significant turning point in Spanish history, affecting the nation's future political landscape.

1651 - The Death of Wolfgang Schonsleder: A Musical Loss

In 1651, Wolfgang Schonsleder, a prominent German composer renowned for his <strong>Missa super Laudate</strong>, passed away at the age of 81. His contributions to sacred music significantly influenced the Baroque era and left a lasting legacy.

1645 - The Death of Nur Jahan: The Powerful Mughal Empress

In 1645, Nur Jahan, the powerful 20th wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, passed away at the age of 68. A formidable political figure, her death marked a significant turning point in Mughal history, revealing her lasting influence on governance and culture.

1213 - The Life and Death of John of Matha

John of Matha, a French saint and founder of the Order of the Most Holy Trinity, died in 1213 at age 53. His legacy includes dedicated efforts to ransom Christians captured by North African marauders, significantly impacting Christian charity.

1195 - The Death of Baldwin V, Count of Hainaut

Baldwin V, Count of Hainaut, passed away in 1195, leaving a significant impact on medieval politics. His rule was marked by alliances and conflicts, shaping the future of his region. Explore his legacy and the tumultuous succession that followed his death.