Historical events for
Friday, 17 July 2026

American writer, creator of the famous fictional lawyer Perry Mason.

James Cagney (1899-1986) was an iconic American actor, famous for his vibrant energy and memorable roles as gangsters and in musicals of Hollywood's golden age. An Oscar winner, his energetic acting style left an indelible mark on the history of world cinema.

Quino, creator of Mafalda, one of Latin America's most beloved comic book characters.

Celebrating the birth of Argentine cartoonist Quino, creator of Mafalda.

Canadian actor known for his roles in films such as "M*A*S*H" and "The Hunger Games."

Brazilian singer and presenter.

British aristocrat, wife of Prince Charles.

American actor and singer, known for his roles in "Knight Rider" and "Baywatch."

Angela Merkel (b. 1954) is a renowned former German Chancellor. Over 16 years, she guided Germany and Europe through financial and humanitarian crises with scientific pragmatism and stability that made her the most powerful woman in the world.

Jorge Coelho (born July 17, 1954, and died April 7, 2021) was a historic Portuguese politician, minister, and manager. An unavoidable figure in the Socialist Party, he marked national politics with his directness, organizational capacity, and full assumption of political responsibilities, particularly after the Entre-os-Rios tragedy.

The master of Portuguese political tactics. After a long journey through the Lisbon City Council and various ministries, António Costa governed Portugal as Prime Minister for eight years, combining deficit control with social gains. He culminated his political career by being elected President of the European Council in Brussels.

Fernando Manuel Machado Alvim, presenter, radio host, comedian and writer, recognized for the radio programs "Prova Oral" and "O Programa da Maria".

Death of the Spanish missionary, defender of the rights of the indigenous people of the New World.

The assault on the Champs de Mars by the Marquis de Lafayette restores order to Paris.

Foundation of the International Athletics Federation (IAAF).

Beginning of the Spanish Civil War with the insurrection of forces installed in Melilla, against republican power.

Beginning of the Potsdam Conference, where allied leaders met to discuss post-war Germany.

Apollo 11, with astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin Aldrin and Michael Collins, enters lunar orbit.

First session of the European Parliament elected by universal suffrage.

Foundation of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP).

The Timorese parliament recognizes Francisco Xavier do Amaral as the first President of the Republic of Timor-Leste.

The Portuguese Rugby Sevens team wins, for the eighth time, the title of European Champion.

Religious celebration in honor of Blessed Inácio de Azevedo and his fellow martyrs.

Third and final concert of BTS's residency at Stanford Stadium, California, consolidating the massive success of the "Arirang" world tour in North American territory during 2026.