March 17 in History: Famous Births, Events, and Deaths

March 17 is widely recognized for celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day, honoring the patron saint of Ireland. On this day in 1766, the first Saint Patrick’s Day parade took place in New York City, marking a tradition that continues globally. In 1861, Italy was officially united under King Victor Emmanuel II. Notable people born on this date include physicist Werner von Braun and actor Rob Lowe. The day reflects cultural pride, scientific achievement, and historical milestones across nations.

Famous people born on March 17

1804 Jim Bridger, American explorer and frontiersman

1834 Gottlieb Daimler, German engineer and automobile pioneer

1881 Walter Rudolf Hess, Swiss physiologist and Nobel laureate

1902 Bobby Jones, American golf champion

1919 Nat King Cole, American singer and jazz pianist

1938 Rudolf Nureyev, Russian ballet dancer and choreographer

1944 John Sebastian, American singer and songwriter of The Lovin' Spoonful

1951 Kurt Russell, American actor

1959 Danny Ainge, American basketball player and executive

1967 Billy Corgan, American musician and lead vocalist of The Smashing Pumpkins

1972 Mia Hamm, American soccer player

1989 Patrick Stump, American musician and lead vocalist of Fall Out Boy

Famous events on March 17

461 Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, passed away, leading to the annual celebration of Saint Patrick's Day.

1766 The first Saint Patrick's Day parade was held in New York City.

1776 British forces evacuated Boston during the American Revolutionary War after the Siege of Boston.

1861 The Kingdom of Italy was officially proclaimed with Victor Emmanuel II as its first king.

1941 The National Gallery of Art opened in Washington, D.C.

1950 Researchers at the University of California isolated the element californium.

1969 Golda Meir became the first female Prime Minister of Israel.

1992 A referendum in South Africa overwhelmingly supported steps to end apartheid.

2000 The Nasdaq stock market reached a record high during the dot com boom era.

2011 The United Nations authorized military intervention in Libya to protect civilians during the uprising.

Famous people who died on March 17

461 Saint Patrick, Christian missionary and patron saint of Ireland

1040 Harold Harefoot, King of England

1846 Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel, German astronomer and mathematician

1849 William II, King of the Netherlands

1917 Franz Brentano, German philosopher and psychologist

1917 Frederick Winslow Taylor, American mechanical engineer and efficiency expert

1956 Irene Joliot-Curie, French physicist and Nobel Prize winner

1993 Helen Hayes, American actress known as the "First Lady of American Theatre"

2005 George F. Kennan, American diplomat and historian

2016 Larry Drake, American actor known for his role in L.A. Law

2023 Lance Reddick, American actor known for The Wire and the John Wick films

March 17 stands out as a day rich in culture, history, and remarkable achievements. It is best known for the global celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day, symbolizing Irish heritage and unity. Throughout history, this date has witnessed significant events in politics, science, and the arts, along with the birth and passing of influential figures who shaped the world in various ways. March 17 continues to remind us of the enduring spirit of tradition, innovation, and human connection across generations.