Ashikaga Yoshimasa

Japanese shōgun and cultural patron

Ashikaga Yoshimasa - Japanese shōgun and cultural patron
Born

January 20th, 1436
589 years ago

Died

January 27th, 1490
535 years ago — 54 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Japan

Links & References

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.

Served as shōgun from 1449 to 1473

Patroned the arts, particularly Noh theater

Established Ginkaku-ji in Kyoto

Other People Born on January 20th

Gordian III

Roman Emperor during Crisis of the Third Century
Born
January 20th, 225 1800 years ago
Died
February 11th, 244 1781 years ago — 19 years old

Ascended to the throne at a young age, ruling as Roman Emperor from 238 to 244. The reign occurred during a turbulent period known as the Crisis of the Third Century. Financed defensive campaigns against external threats and focused on restoring stability within the empire. Engaged in military campaigns against the Persian Empire, achieving initial successes. The leadership style was characterized by dependence on senior advisors and military commanders.

Continue Reading

John Witherow

Journalist and author, led The Times
Born
January 20th, 1952 73 years ago

A South African-English journalist and author, served as the editor of The Times from 2013 until 2020. Started career as a journalist in South Africa before moving to England. Contributed significantly to various publications, including the Sunday Times and the Independent. His editorial tenure at The Times was marked by a commitment to quality journalism and investigative reporting.

Continue Reading

Charles III of Spain

King of Spain and influential monarch
Born
January 20th, 1716 309 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1788 236 years ago — 72 years old

Ruled as King of Spain from 1759 until death in 1788. Charles III implemented extensive reforms to modernize Spain, enhancing the economy and administrative efficiency. His reign is marked by significant cultural developments, including patronage of the arts and architecture. Established the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando and promoted science, education, and public works. Efforts towards secularization and a focus on the Enlightenment ideals defined his leadership.

Continue Reading

Leon Ames

American actor in 'Meet Me in St. Louis'
Born
January 20th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1993 31 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1902, an American actor gained recognition for performances in film and television. Starred in the classic film 'Meet Me in St. Louis' alongside Judy Garland. Appeared in numerous television series and films throughout the mid-20th century. Known for portraying characters with warmth and charm.

Continue Reading

David Wilmot

American politician and legislator
Born
January 20th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1868 157 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent politician in the mid-19th century, played a significant role in the politics surrounding the expansion of the United States. Best remembered for introducing the Wilmot Proviso in 1846, which sought to ban slavery in territories acquired from Mexico after the Mexican-American War. This proposal ignited intense debate over slavery and contributed to the sectional conflicts leading up to the Civil War. Served as a U.S. Congressman and later as a U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania, actively engaging in anti-slavery discourse and policy.

Continue Reading

Sebastian Münster

German cartographer and cosmographer
Born
January 20th, 1488 537 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1552 472 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent 16th-century German scholar, played a crucial role in the fields of cartography and cosmography. Published the influential work 'Cosmographia' in 1544, which served as one of the first comprehensive descriptions of the world. Contributed significantly to mapping by producing multiple maps and atlases, including the 'Karte von Deutschland' which illustrated German territories. Held a position as a professor at the University of Basel, and engaged in various scholarly activities that advanced geographic knowledge during the Renaissance period.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 27th

Lilli Palmer

German-American actress and author
Born
May 24th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1986 39 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Germany, this actress established a successful career in film and theater. She gained recognition for performances in notable films such as 'The Dark Avenger' and 'The Grand Duchess and Mr. Potter'. After moving to the United States, she appeared in various television series and continued to work in films, showcasing her talent across different genres. Aside from acting, she authored several books, including her autobiography, which reflects on her experiences in the entertainment industry and personal life.

Continue Reading

John James Audubon

Ornithologist and painter of birds
Born
April 26th, 1785 239 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1851 174 years ago — 65 years old

A French-American ornithologist and painter, recognized for extensive studies of North American birds. Created 'The Birds of America', a groundbreaking collection of bird illustrations that features high-quality, life-sized images of various bird species. The work contributed to the field of ornithology and art, showcasing over 400 species with detailed observations. His artistic approach combined scientific accuracy with aesthetic quality, influencing both art and natural history. Founded the Audubon Society, which promotes conservation of birds and their habitats.

Continue Reading

Erich Kleiber

Austrian conductor and opera director
Born
August 5th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1956 69 years ago — 65 years old

Conductor and opera director achieved recognition for expertise in leading orchestras and productions in major operas. Led the Vienna State Opera, producing significant works such as 'Die Fledermaus' and 'Der Rosenkavalier.' Contributed to the development of music performance and education during a turbulent period in Europe. Worked with various esteemed orchestras and performed internationally, influencing future generations of conductors.

Continue Reading

Robert Aske

English merchant and philanthropist
Born
1619 406 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1689 336 years ago — 70 years old

Acquired wealth through mercantile ventures in England during the 17th century. Invested significant resources in charitable activities and local improvements. Played a crucial role in supporting educational initiatives and infrastructure developments, particularly in his native region. Actively engaged in promoting welfare and economic development among the lower classes.

Continue Reading

David Landau

Journalist and editor of Haaretz
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent journalist and editor, contributed significantly to Israeli media. Served as the editor of Haaretz, shaping the newspaper's editorial policies and perspectives. Engaged in political commentary and analysis, providing insights into the complexities of Israeli society and politics. Worked as a foreign correspondent, covering key events in Israel and the Middle East. Held a pivotal role in fostering dialogue and debate within the region's political landscape.

Continue Reading

Salvador Laurel

Filipino lawyer and Vice President
Born
November 18th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2004 21 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 10th Vice President of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992. Held various positions in government, including Secretary of Justice and Presidential Advisor on Legal Affairs. Contributed to the legal and political landscape of the Philippines through active involvement in key legislative reforms and governance.

Continue Reading