Beatrice of Portugal

Duchess of Savoy, Queen consort of France

Beatrice of Portugal - Duchess of Savoy, Queen consort of France
Born

December 31st, 1504
520 years ago

Died

January 8th, 1538
487 years ago — 33 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Portugal

Links & References

Born in 1498, Beatrice of Portugal became the Duchess of Savoy through her marriage to Charles III. This union strengthened political ties between Portugal and Savoy during the early 16th century. Beatrice had a significant role in the politics of her time, particularly through her lineage and connections. She also served as the Queen consort of France by marriage to Louis XII, solidifying alliances between Portugal and France. Beatrice's life was marked by her marriage arrangements that had political implications in European nobility.

Married Charles III, Duke of Savoy

Served as Queen consort of France

Other People Born on December 31st

Tatyana Shmyga

Russian actress and singer
Born
December 31st, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 83 years old

An influential figure in Soviet cinema and music, contributions spanned several decades. Portrayed memorable roles in films during the 1950s and 60s. Achieved recognition for performance in the film 'The Straw Hat' and gained popularity as a singer with several hit songs. Her work included collaborations with prominent artists and participation in cultural events.

Continue Reading

Mario Aerts

Cyclist and Tour de France participant
Born
December 31st, 1974 50 years ago

Competed professionally in road cycling from 1995 to 2014. Participated in multiple editions of the Tour de France and notable Grand Tours, contributing as a strong climber and support rider for leading teams. Achieved several successes in both national and international competitions, showcasing endurance and tactical skills throughout a lengthy career in cycling.

Continue Reading

Lyudmila Pakhomova

Russian ice dancer and Olympian
Born
December 31st, 1946 78 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 40 years old

An accomplished ice dancer, this athlete excelled in competitive figure skating in the 1970s and 1980s. Pakhomova partnered with Alexander Gorshkov to achieve significant success in the sport, capturing several titles. The duo secured gold at the 1970 World Championships, earned Olympic gold in 1976, and won multiple European Championships. The innovative style and technical precision displayed in performances set a standard in ice dance. This dancer's contribution to the sport remains influential, as the techniques and artistry developed are still referenced in ice dance today.

Continue Reading

Ellen Datlow

Anthologist and horror editor
Born
December 31st, 1949 75 years ago

An influential anthologist and editor primarily in the horror genre. Edited many acclaimed anthologies such as 'The Dark' and 'The Year's Best Fantasy and Horror'. Worked with numerous celebrated authors and has contributed to the development of various horror literature trends. Breeds a profound appreciation for speculative fiction and champions new talent alongside established writers. Received multiple awards for editorial contributions in the genre.

Continue Reading

Sri Lal Sukla

Indian author of Raag Darbari
Born
December 31st, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 86 years old

An Indian author contributed significantly to Hindi literature, particularly through the novel Raag Darbari. The work explored themes of rural life and bureaucracy, gaining prominence for its satirical portrayal of societal issues in post-independence India. The novel earned critical acclaim and won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1969. Apart from Raag Darbari, also engaged in writing essays and critiques that reflected contemporary society. Worked as a lecturer and served in various editorial roles in literary publications.

Continue Reading

Sander Schutgens

Dutch runner and marathon competitor
Born
December 31st, 1975 49 years ago

Specializing in long-distance events, this individual achieved significant success in marathon running. Competed in numerous national and international competitions, showcasing consistent performance and determination. Maintained a prominent presence in the athletics community throughout his career, participating in various races and events, solidifying reputation as a competitive runner. Involved in the Dutch athletics scene, contributing to the sport's visibility and growth.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 8th

David Ervine

Northern Irish politician and activist focused on peace
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2007 18 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent politician and activist in Northern Ireland, played a significant role in the peace process, especially during the tumultuous times of the Troubles. Engaged in politics through the Progressive Unionist Party, which represented the Ulster loyalist community. Advocated for political solutions, emphasizing dialogue and understanding among different communities. Contributed to the negotiations leading to the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, which aimed to bring an end to decades of conflict. Also served as a member of the Legislative Assembly for Belfast East, representing the interests of his constituents until death in 2007.

Continue Reading

John Mauchly

Physicist, co-developer of ENIAC
Born
August 30th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1980 45 years ago — 72 years old

Contributions to the development of electronic computing. Collaborated on the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), one of the first general-purpose electronic digital computers. Worked on various projects related to electronic computing and served as a professor at several institutions. Published numerous papers on computing and related fields, influencing future generations of engineers and computer scientists.

Continue Reading

Terry-Thomas

English actor and comedian in film
Born
July 10th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1990 35 years ago — 78 years old

An English actor and comedian gained popularity during the mid-20th century through his unique style, characterized by a gap-toothed smile and a distinctive voice. Became a well-recognized figure in British film and television. Achieved significant success in the 1950s and 1960s with performances in various comedies, including roles in 'The Adventures of Barry McKenzie' and 'It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.' Made numerous television appearances, becoming a staple of British entertainment during the era.

Continue Reading

Art Clokey

Animator of Gumby and animation pioneer
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2010 15 years ago — 89 years old

American animator created the character Gumby, an iconic stop-motion clay figure. Developed a distinctive style that utilized clay modeling, contributing significantly to the art of animation. Founded the production company Clokey Productions, producing educational and entertainment content. Directed and produced several animated shorts and television series throughout the 1950s to the 1980s. Gumby became a cultural icon, appearing in various merchandise, films, and spin-offs, which contributed to its popularity across generations.

Continue Reading

Melvin Calvin

Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner
Born
April 8th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1997 28 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent chemist and academic contributed to the understanding of the photosynthetic carbon fixation process. Research led to significant advancements in biochemistry and plant physiology. Served as a professor and researcher, influencing many students and future scientists through teaching and mentorship. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1961 for work on the Calvin cycle, a crucial biochemical pathway in photosynthesis.

Continue Reading

Joseph Franklin Rutherford

Religious leader and lawyer
Born
1869 156 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1942 83 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent lawyer and religious leader, served as the second president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. Contributed to the development of the beliefs and doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses. Wrote numerous publications on biblical subjects, shaping the views of followers. Focused on evangelism and outreach, promoting a worldwide message of faith. Led various changes within the organization, including its administration and legal challenges related to religious freedom. His leadership spanned several decades during the early 20th century, until his death.

Continue Reading