Anniversary of May 17, 2025: Find out what happened on this day

The anniversaries of this Saturday, May 17, 2025, allow us to remember social and cultural events that marked the history of humanity. Today we commemorate key events around the world, such as Norway's Independence Day , as well as the births and deaths of historical figures. Discover all of today's anniversaries in Colombia and around the world below.

Historical events that occurred on a day like today in the world

Among the most notable events of May 17 are:

1958 : Spain joins the IMF and the Bank for Reconstruction and Development. (67 years ago)

1943 : The RAF bombs Germany, destroying dams in the Ruhr Valley and disrupting key supplies. (82 years ago)

1935 : Franco is appointed Chief of the Central General Staff in Spain, preparing a coup d'état. (90 years ago)

1928 : The VIII Olympic Games opened in Amsterdam with 46 countries and 2,606 athletes. (97 years ago)

1814 : Guillermo Brown defeats the Spanish royalist fleet in Montevideo, facilitating the fall of the city. (211 years ago)

1809 : Napoleon annexes the Papal States to the French Empire and is excommunicated by Pope Pius VII. (216 years ago)

1803 : Napoleon breaks the Peace of Amiens and resumes the war. (222 years ago)

1792 : The New York Stock Exchange is founded at a meeting of 24 businessmen on Wall Street. (233 years ago)

1727 : Peter II is named Tsar of Russia at age 11 following the death of Catherine I. (298 years ago)

1656 : Russia declares war on Sweden, beginning hostilities the following day. (369 years ago)

Births on May 17

These are the famous and historical figures who were born on this day:

1886 : Maria Cristina of Habsburg-Lorraine gives birth to Alfonso XIII, who will become king at the age of 16, while his mother acts as regent.

1866 : Erik Satie, French composer and pianist, known for works such as "Gymnopédies" and "Gnossiennes" and considered a master for "Les Six", is born.

1749 : Edward Jenner, an English physician who discovered the smallpox vaccine in 1796 after observing the immunity provided by the cowpox virus, was born.

Who died on a day like today?

Among the most important deaths that occurred on May 17 are:

1510 : Sandro Botticelli, Florentine Renaissance painter, dies. His best-known works are "The Birth of Venus" and "Primavera." He fused Christian and pagan themes.

515 : 515 years ago.

Today is Norway's Independence Day

Norway's Independence Day , celebrated on May 17 , commemorates the adoption of Norway's Constitution in 1814, marking the beginning of its independence after centuries of Danish control. Although Norway did not achieve full independence at that time, as it remained under the authority of the King of Sweden, the celebration of Independence Day began shortly after the signing of the constitution and has evolved into one of the country's most joyful holidays, known as Norwegian National Day, filled with parades, music, and celebrations across the country.

The May 17th festivities are of great importance to Norwegians, especially the Children's Parade, where thousands march with flags and traditional costumes. This event symbolizes happiness and community spirit. Families also gather to enjoy traditional dishes such as smørbrød and bløtkake, while many wear traditional costumes known as bunad. The day not only celebrates political independence but is also a time of national pride and reflection on the future, with activities and entertainment in Norway's squares and streets.