Angela Merici
Italian educator and founder of Ursulines
An Italian educator and saint, established the Company of St. Ursula in 1535 to provide education to girls. This organization contributed significantly to the development of women's education in Europe. Developed a unique approach to education that integrated spiritual and academic development, emphasizing moral and civic responsibilities. The Company of St. Ursula became a global network of schools and institutions focused on educating young women and fostering their leadership roles in society.
Founded the Company of St. Ursula
Influenced women's education across Europe
Other People Born on March 21st
Charmaine Dragun
Australian journalist and news presenter
Born
March 21st, 1978 48 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2007 18 years ago — 29 years old
Born in Australia in 1978, a career in journalism spanned several prominent news organizations. Coverage of significant events and issues led to contributions in television news and current affairs. Served as a news presenter and reporter, achieving recognition for engaging reporting styles. Worked for major Australian networks, where storytelling and a clear communication style resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingPrayut Chan-o-cha
Thai Prime Minister with military background
Born
March 21st, 1954 72 years ago
Served as the Prime Minister of Thailand starting from 2014 after leading a military coup. Held the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army prior to assuming office. Oversaw various political reforms and central economic policies during tenure. Reelected in 2019 and continued to lead amid challenges including protests and calls for democratic reforms.
Continue ReadingHugo Koblet
Swiss cyclist and Tour de France winner
Born
March 21st, 1925 101 years ago
Died
November 6th, 1964 61 years ago — 39 years old
Born in Switzerland, a professional cyclist achieved significant success in the 1940s and 1950s. Won the prestigious Tour de France in 1951, becoming the first Swiss rider to earn this title. Displayed remarkable talent in road racing and time trials, securing multiple national championships. Renowned for a graceful riding style and strong capabilities in mountainous terrains, contributing to popularity in the sport.
Continue ReadingWalter Tewksbury
American runner and Olympic champion
Born
March 21st, 1876 150 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1968 58 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent American runner and hurdler, Tewksbury distinguished himself in the early 20th century athletic scene. Competing primarily in the sprints and hurdles, he participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics held in Paris, where he achieved remarkable success. Tewksbury's athletic prowess was showcased in various competitions, making him a leading figure in American track and field during his time. His contributions to the sport were significant, elevating the standards and performance levels of runners and hurdlers. After retiring from competitive athletics, Tewksbury continued to be involved in the sport in various capacities, promoting running and training athletes for future competitions.
Continue ReadingGary Oldman
English actor and filmmaker, awards winner
Born
March 21st, 1958 68 years ago
Acclaimed for versatile performances in film, one of the prominent figures in contemporary cinema. Gained recognition for roles in 'Dracula,' 'The Darkest Hour,' and 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.' Received multiple awards, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Also worked as a director and contributed to various film projects as a producer.
Continue ReadingForrest Mars
Candy maker, creator of M&M's
Born
March 21st, 1904 122 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 95 years old
Involved in the confectionery industry, established a successful business in partnership with the Mars Company. Developed M&M's, a popular chocolate candy coated with a hard shell, during World War II to provide soldiers with a durable snack. Later introduced the Mars bar, a chocolate bar consisting of nougat and caramel. Contributed significantly to the growth of the candy market and family business.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 27th
Nishinoumi Kajirō II
Japanese sumo wrestler, 25th Yokozuna
Born
February 6th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1931 95 years ago — 50 years old
Achieved the rank of Yokozuna in sumo wrestling, becoming the 25th person to hold this title. Competed during the early 20th century and contributed to the sport's popularity in Japan. Won numerous tournaments, showcasing remarkable skill and strength. His career in sumo wrestling is remembered for its significance in the sport's history.
Continue ReadingAshikaga Yoshimasa
Japanese shōgun and cultural patron
Born
January 20th, 1436 590 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1490 536 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1436, served as the 8th shōgun of the Ashikaga shogunate from 1449 until 1473. Oversaw a period marked by cultural flourishing in Japan, particularly during the Muromachi period. Established the Ginkaku-ji, a Zen temple in Kyoto, and supported the development of the tea ceremony and ink painting. His reign faced political turmoil and civil strife, culminating in the Onin War, which significantly affected the governance of Japan. Although governance waned, the cultural heritage initiated during his tenure later influenced various art forms and Japanese aesthetics.
Continue ReadingLouis Henri
Duke of Bourbon
Born
August 18th, 1692 333 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1740 286 years ago — 47 years old
Duke of Bourbon served as a French noble and military leader during the 17th century. Held significant influence as the head of the Bourbon family, playing a pivotal role in French politics and military affairs. Participated in various campaigns and contributed to the establishment of Bourbon dominance in France. His notable lineage established the connection between the Bourbon dynasty and the French monarchy.
Continue ReadingJohannes Rau
Politician and Federal President of Germany
Born
January 16th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2006 20 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent German politician, played a significant role in the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). Served as the eighth Federal President of Germany from 1999 to 2004. Prior to his presidency, held various political offices including Minister-President of North Rhine-Westphalia from 1978 to 1998. Focused on issues of reconciliation, social justice, and European integration during his political career.
Continue ReadingCloris Leachman
Actress and comedian in classic films
Born
April 30th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2021 5 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent actress and comedian, celebrated for a career spanning over seven decades, including significant roles in television and film. Gained widespread acclaim for the television series 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show', winning multiple Emmy Awards. Starred in films such as 'Young Frankenstein' and 'The Last Picture Show', earning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Leachman also displayed talent in stage performances, garnering recognition for her work in theater productions.
Continue ReadingJohn Updike
American novelist and critic
Born
March 18th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2009 17 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American novelist, short story writer, and critic, this individual earned a reputation for his detailed exploration of middle-class American life. His most celebrated works include the Rabbit series, which follows the life of Harry 'Rabbit' Angstrom, and the novel 'The Witches of Eastwick', which delves into themes of feminism and power. With a career that spanned several decades, this individual contributed significantly to literature with a keen focus on psychology and relationships. Recognition included winning the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction twice, showcasing a commitment to literary excellence.
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