December 17 is a date that holds great significance in world history. This day is marked by monumental events that shaped societies and by the birth of individuals who left lasting legacies in their fields. From historic military campaigns to groundbreaking scientific discoveries, December 17 offers a glimpse into the richness of human history. Additionally, the famous people born on this day have contributed to medicine, sports, religion, writing, and entertainment.
Let’s explore the key historical events and the lives of notable figures associated with this date.
Historical Events on December 17
1. Tamerlane Captures Delhi (1398)
On December 17, 1398, Tamerlane, a powerful Central Asian ruler, invaded and captured Delhi, the capital of the Delhi Sultanate. Tamerlane’s forces used a unique strategy by setting camels loaded with hay on fire and driving them towards the Sultan’s war elephants. The flaming camels caused chaos among the elephants, leading to a decisive victory for Tamerlane.
This event was a turning point for Delhi. The city faced massive destruction, and its wealth was looted. Tamerlane’s conquest weakened the Sultanate, and his actions paved the way for future invaders. His campaign also demonstrated his military brilliance and cruelty, leaving a mixed legacy in South Asia.
2. Henry VIII Excommunicated (1538)
On December 17, 1538, Pope Paul III excommunicated King Henry VIII of England. This act was a response to Henry’s decision to break away from the Roman Catholic Church. Henry’s refusal to annul his marriage with Catherine of Aragon and his establishment of the Church of England led to a rift with the Pope.
The excommunication solidified the Protestant Reformation in England. It also marked the beginning of a new religious era where monarchs held greater control over the church within their territories. This event profoundly changed England’s religious and political landscape.
3. Leo XIII Closes ‘Holy Door’ (1900)
On December 17, 1900, Pope Leo XIII ceremonially closed the ‘Holy Door’ at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. This act marked the end of the Jubilee Year of 1900, a significant event for Catholics worldwide. The ‘Holy Door’ symbolizes a passage to divine grace and is opened during Jubilee Years as part of a tradition started in 1500.
The closing of the door by Pope Leo XIII was seen as a culmination of a year filled with religious celebrations and pilgrimages. The Jubilee Year’s goal was to encourage spiritual renewal and reflection, which the Pope emphasized during his leadership.
4. Wright Brothers’ First Flight (1903)
December 17, 1903, is remembered as the day the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, achieved the first powered flight in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Orville piloted the plane, which stayed in the air for 12 seconds and covered 120 feet. This milestone marked the beginning of modern aviation.
The Wright brothers’ invention transformed transportation and warfare. Their success demonstrated the power of human ingenuity and perseverance. Today, their achievement is celebrated as one of the most significant technological advancements in history.
5. Holography Patent (1947)
On December 17, 1947, British industrial company BTH (British Thomson-Houston) received the first patent for holography, a groundbreaking invention by physicist Dennis Gabor. Gabor developed holography while researching ways to improve electron microscopes.
This innovation laid the foundation for modern 3D imaging technologies. Holography has applications in various fields, including security, medical imaging, and art. Dennis Gabor’s work earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1971, cementing holography’s importance in science.
Famous People Born on December 17
1. Émile Roux (1853-1933)
Émile Roux was a French physician and bacteriologist who played a key role in developing the first diphtheria vaccine. He co-founded the Pasteur Institute, where he worked alongside Louis Pasteur to advance medical research.
| Name | Émile Roux |
|---|---|
| Born | December 17, 1853, in Confolens, France |
| Field | Medicine, Bacteriology |
| Achievements | Developed diphtheria vaccine, Co-founded Pasteur Institute |
| Died | November 3, 1933 |
Roux’s work in immunology saved countless lives, making him a pioneer in modern medicine.
2. Gerald Patterson (1895-1967)
Gerald Patterson was an Australian tennis player who won multiple Grand Slam titles. He was known for his powerful serve and exceptional skills on the court.
| Name | Gerald Patterson |
| Born | December 17, 1895, in Melbourne, Australia |
| Field | Tennis |
| Achievements | Wimbledon champion (1919, 1921), Australian Open winner (1927) |
| Died | June 13, 1967 |
Patterson’s contributions to tennis earned him a place among Australia’s greatest athletes.
3. William Safire (1929-2009)
William Safire was an American political columnist and speechwriter. He was a key figure in American journalism and worked as a speechwriter for President Richard Nixon.
| Name | William Safire |
| Born | December 17, 1929, in New York City, USA |
| Field | Journalism, Politics |
| Achievements | Pulitzer Prize winner, Nixon’s speechwriter |
| Died | September 27, 2009 |
Safire’s columns and books left a significant mark on political commentary and public discourse.
4. Pope Francis (1936-Present)
Pope Francis is the leader of the Catholic Church and the first Jesuit pope. He is known for his humility, progressive views, and efforts to reform the church.
| Name | Pope Francis |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Field | Religion |
| Achievements | First Jesuit pope, First pope from the Americas, Church reformer |
| Current Age | 87 years old |
Pope Francis continues to inspire millions with his message of compassion and inclusivity.
5. Eugene Levy (1946-Present)
Eugene Levy is a Canadian actor, writer, and comedian. He is best known for his roles in American Pie and Schitt’s Creek.
| Name | Eugene Levy |
| Born | December 17, 1946, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada |
| Field | Acting, Comedy |
| Achievements | Emmy Awards for Schitt’s Creek |
| Current Age | 77 years old |
Levy’s career has spanned decades, making him a beloved figure in comedy and entertainment.
Takeaway
December 17 stands out in history as a day of innovation, courage, and achievement. The events of this date, from the groundbreaking flight by the Wright brothers to Tamerlane’s historic conquest, remind us of humanity’s triumphs and struggles. The famous individuals born on this day, including Émile Roux, Pope Francis, and Eugene Levy, have significantly shaped their respective fields. Their contributions continue to influence and inspire people worldwide. December 17 is truly a date worth celebrating.
References
- Britannica. “Tamerlane.” www.britannica.com
- History.com Editors. “Wright Brothers’ First Flight.” www.history.com
- Nobel Prize Organization. “Dennis Gabor – Nobel Prize in Physics 1971.” www.nobelprize.org
- Vatican News. “Jubilee Year History.” www.vaticannews.va
- IMDb. “Eugene Levy.” www.imdb.com
- Australian Dictionary of Biography. “Gerald Patterson.” adb.anu.edu.au
