Afonso VI of Portugal
King of Portugal, notable for conflicts
Ascended to the throne at a young age, ruling from 1656 to 1683. His reign was marked by territorial conflicts, particularly with Spain and ongoing wars in the Portuguese Empire. After health issues compromised governance, regency was established during his rule. His reign included participation in the Restoration War against Spain, striving for Portugal's independence following the Iberian Union. Additionally, political instability characterized Afonso VI's time as king. His eventual deposition led to the consolidation of power under his brother.
Ruled during the Restoration War against Spain
Established regency due to health issues
Deposed in favor of his brother
Other People Born on August 21st
Jorge de Lencastre
Duke of Coimbra, Portuguese noble
Born
August 21st, 1481 544 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1550 475 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1481, served as Duke of Coimbra, the title he held as a member of the Portuguese royal family. Appointed governor of the province of India, contributing to the establishment of Portuguese colonial rule in the region. Involved in various military campaigns that aimed to expand Portuguese influence. His lineage connected him to important historical figures, positioning him in the network of nobility that shaped the political landscape of 16th century Portugal.
Continue ReadingConsuelo Velázquez
Pianist and songwriter of Bésame Mucho
Born
August 21st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 88 years old
Began composing music at a young age. Gained recognition as a pianist and songwriter, with much of the work centered in Mexico. Created the iconic bolero 'Bésame Mucho' in 1940, which became a standard in Latin music and was covered by numerous artists globally. Other songs contributed to the music scene, showcasing a blend of classical and popular styles. Her work significantly influenced Latin American music, and she received various awards in recognition of her contributions. Continued to perform and compose throughout her life, leaving a lasting legacy in the music community.
Continue ReadingPatrick Demarchelier
Fashion photographer, worked with Vogue
Born
August 21st, 1943 82 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 78 years old
French fashion photographer gained prominence in the fashion industry, capturing iconic images for magazines. Received acclaim for a distinctive style that blended fine art and commercial photography. Collaborated with numerous celebrities and brands, creating memorable campaigns that influenced fashion trends. Photographed notable fashion editorials and campaigns for Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and other prestigious publications, establishing a significant presence in the world of fashion photography.
Continue ReadingEmiliano Mercado del Toro
Puerto Rican-American soldier
Born
August 21st, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2007 18 years ago — 115 years old
Served in the United States Army during World War II. Participated in significant battles such as the invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. Achieved the rank of sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery. Later served in the Puerto Rican National Guard and continued to advocate for veterans' rights.
Continue ReadingNicolás Almagro
Tennis player with ATP titles
Born
August 21st, 1985 40 years ago
A professional tennis player from Spain, competed primarily on the ATP tour. Gained prominence in the early 2000s and achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 9 in 2012. Excelled on clay courts, capturing multiple ATP titles including the 2012 Nice Open. Participated in all four Grand Slam tournaments, with his best performance being a quarterfinal appearance at the French Open in 2008. Represented Spain in the Davis Cup, contributing to the team's successful campaigns during his tenure. Retired from professional tennis in 2018.
Continue ReadingGustavo Noboa
Ecuadorian politician, 42nd President
Born
August 21st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 42nd President of Ecuador from 2000 to 2003. His administration focused on implementing economic reforms and negotiating Free Trade Agreements. Oversaw a period of relative stability in Ecuador while addressing internal conflicts. Contributed to the promotion of foreign investment and worked on social programs aimed at improving education and healthcare.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 12th
Jules Violle
Physicist known for spectroscopic methods
Born
November 16th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1923 102 years ago — 81 years old
This individual was a French physicist and academic who contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in thermodynamics and spectroscopy. Violle served as a professor at the University of Paris and conducted extensive research on atmospheric phenomena. His work in measuring the intensity of solar radiation laid the groundwork for further studies in solar energy and meteorology. This physicist was also involved in advancing the understanding of colorimetry and developed methods for studying the spectra of gases and liquids.
Continue ReadingLewis Stone
American actor known for 'Ben-Hur'
Born
November 15th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1953 72 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1879, this American actor gained prominence in the film industry during the silent era and transitioned successfully to sound films. Achieved recognition for the role of Judd in the 1925 adaptation of 'Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ'. Made significant contributions to numerous films throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Later, played the role of Judge Hardy in the popular 'Andy Hardy' film series, which starred Mickey Rooney. The professional career spanned several decades until the actor's death in 1969.
Continue ReadingClément Marot
French poet of the Renaissance era
Born
November 23rd, 1496 529 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1544 481 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent poet during the French Renaissance, contributed to the development of French literature through lyrical poetry and translations of classical works. Associated with the court of King Francis I, Marot produced a variety of poems that showcased his skill in the rondeau form. His writings explored themes of love, human experience, and social commentary. His translation of the Psalms into French made a significant impact on religious and secular poetry, influencing both contemporaries and later poets. Marot's work helped pave the way for future literary movements in France.
Continue ReadingFitz Hugh Ludlow
American journalist and author, The Hasheesh Eater
Born
September 11th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1870 155 years ago — 34 years old
A journalist, author, and explorer, created a significant narrative on the experiences of drug use in 19th-century America. Wrote the book 'The Hasheesh Eater', which detailed the exploration of hashish and its effects. Contributed articles to prominent publications, including the New York Tribune and Harper's Weekly. Engaged in various explorations, often focusing on the American West and its cultures.
Continue ReadingChristian Dietrich Grabbe
German poet and playwright, notable works
Born
December 11th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1836 189 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1801, a German poet and playwright made significant contributions to German literature during the early 19th century. His works often displayed a blend of tragic and comedic elements, influencing later literary movements. Grabbe's notable plays include 'Don Juan' and 'Hannibal', which explored themes of ambition, betrayal, and the complexities of human nature. His style anticipated elements of expressionism and remained influential among later playwrights and poets.
Continue ReadingEdith Windsor
LGBT rights activist and DOMA plaintiff
Born
June 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 88 years old
An activist focused on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights, played a crucial role in landmark legal battles for marriage equality in the United States. Windsor challenged the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) after the death of her spouse, sparking significant changes in federal recognition of same-sex marriage. The Supreme Court ruled in her favor in 2013, effectively striking down DOMA. Her case became a catalyst for the legalization of same-sex marriage across the nation, influencing public policy and discourse on LGBTQ+ rights.
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