February 17

What happened on February 17 in history

3 events fall on February 17, from 1600 to 1979. Read them below, then try to place a historical scene yourself — guess where in the world it happened and in what year.

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Events on February 17

  1. 1600

    Giordano Bruno is burned in Rome

    The philosopher of infinite worlds is executed in the Campo de' Fiori.

    Play the Exploration & revolution round

  2. 1801

    Jefferson wins the tied election

    The House breaks a deadlock on the thirty-sixth ballot.

    Play the 19th century round

  3. 1979

    China invades Vietnam

    A short and costly border war follows Vietnam's intervention in Cambodia.

    Play the 20th century round