Alfonso VII of León and Castile

King and Emperor of Spain

Alfonso VII of León and Castile - Leaders & Politicians born 1105
Born

1105
920 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Spain

Links & References

Ruled as King of León and Castile from 1126 until death in 1157. Expanded territories through military campaigns and strategic marriages. Instituted reforms that enhanced royal authority and governance. Crowned as the first Emperor of All Spain in 1135, promoting unity among the Christian kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula. Engaged in conflicts with Muslim territories, with significant victories that increased Christian influence in the region.

Crowned as Emperor of All Spain in 1135

Expanded León and Castile significantly

Strengthened royal governance and authority

Other People Who Died on August 21st

Benigno Aquino Jr.

Filipino politician and activist
Born
November 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1983 42 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent figure in Philippine politics, he emerged as a leading opposition voice during the regime of Ferdinand Marcos. His political career began in the 1950s, serving as a senator and becoming known for his vocal criticism of government corruption and authoritarianism. Aquino was imprisoned for nearly four years following the declaration of martial law in 1972. After his release, he went into exile in the United States. He returned to the Philippines in 1983, where he was assassinated at the Manila International Airport, an event that galvanized the opposition against Marcos. His death triggered a series of events leading to the People Power Revolution in 1986, which ultimately ousted Marcos from power.

Continue Reading

Stefán Karl Stefánsson

Icelandic actor best known for LazyTown
Born
July 10th, 1975 50 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2018 7 years ago — 43 years old

An Icelandic actor gained prominence for portraying the character Robbie Rotten in the children's television series LazyTown. The show, which premiered in 2004, featured a mix of live-action and puppetry and became popular among younger audiences. Besides this role, the actor worked in various theatrical productions throughout his career. He also lent his voice to animated projects and participated in other TV series and films, contributing to the entertainment industry both in Iceland and internationally.

Continue Reading

Bill Pascrell

American politician and legislator
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in American politics, served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from New Jersey. Played a significant role in various legislative initiatives during tenure. Focused on issues such as education, healthcare, and community development. Prior to congressional service, held positions in local government, contributing to policy-making at the state level. Legislated on matters affecting New Jersey and the broader United States.

Continue Reading

Don Raleigh

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old

A Canadian ice hockey player and coach, contributed significantly to the sport during the mid-20th century. Played for teams including the New York Rangers and the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League (NHL). Transitioned to coaching after retirement, influencing the development of future players.

Continue Reading

Nell McCafferty

Northern Irish journalist and playwright
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2024 1 years ago — 80 years old

A journalist and playwright from Northern Ireland. Focused on civil rights and women's issues throughout the career. Worked with various publications, contributing to significant political and social discourse in Northern Ireland. Playwright for numerous stage productions that addressed social justice themes. Engaged in activism during the Troubles, raising awareness of issues related to equality and human rights.

Continue Reading

Lady Mary Wortley Montagu

English writer and advocate for smallpox inoculation
Born
May 15th, 1689 336 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1762 263 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1689, a writer and poet highlighted the benefits of smallpox inoculation after witnessing the practice in the Ottoman Empire. Authored 'The Turkish Embassy Letters', which offered insights into life in Turkey. Contributed to literary discussions of the time and addressed issues of women's rights and education. Actively campaigned for the adoption of inoculation in England, influencing medical practices.

Continue Reading