Bernadette Devlin McAliskey
Irish civil rights leader and politician
Born
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
Ireland
Links & References
Born in 1947, this figure emerged as a prominent civil rights leader and politician in Ireland during the 1960s. Active in the Northern Ireland civil rights movement, she campaigned for social justice and equality for the Catholic minority. Elected as a Member of Parliament for the Sinn Féin party at a young age, she became known for her fiery speeches and advocacy for the rights of her community. Her political career included significant opposition to British rule in Northern Ireland and participation in various civil rights demonstrations. Following a series of events including arrests and political challenges, she continued to influence Irish politics and engage in activism into the later decades of her life.
Elected as MP for Mid Ulster in 1969
Prominent figure in the Northern Ireland civil rights movement
Other People Born on April 23rd
Princess Charlotte Amalie Wilhelmine of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Plön
German noble, Duchess of Cumberland
Born
April 23rd, 1744 281 years ago
Died
1770 256 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1744, Charlotte Amalie was a German noble who became the Duchess of Cumberland through marriage. She was part of the extended royal family in Germany and played a significant role in the courts of her time. Her life was marked by her connections to various royal families in Europe, particularly through her marriage to Prince Ernest Augustus, Duke of Cumberland. The couple had several children, which further established familial links between the German duchies and other European royal houses. Charlotte Amalie's lineage is significant in the context of European nobility and has implications for the history of German princely families.
Continue ReadingFrederick Whitaker
New Zealand lawyer and 5th Prime Minister
Born
April 23rd, 1812 213 years ago
Died
1891 135 years ago — 79 years old
Born in England, a legal career commenced after graduation and eventual relocation to New Zealand. Served as the 5th Prime Minister of New Zealand, leading the country during significant political changes. His administration focused on developing the legal framework for a growing colony and managing internal conflicts. Active in politics, also held roles as a member of the House of Representatives and Colonial Secretary. Involved in land development issues and legislation related to immigration and governance.
Continue ReadingZach Apple
Swimmer with Olympic relay gold medal
Born
April 23rd, 1997 28 years ago
An American swimmer who specializes in freestyle events. Competed in international competitions and participated in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Contributed to the men's 4x100 meter freestyle relay team and secured a gold medal. Also excelled in collegiate swimming, achieving record times and winning multiple championships.
Continue ReadingStephen A. Douglas
American politician and educator
Born
April 23rd, 1813 212 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1861 164 years ago — 48 years old
This individual served as the 7th Secretary of State of Illinois. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, this individual later became a U.S. Senator from Illinois. Played a significant role in the politics of the 1850s, including advocacy for the expansion of slavery into the territories. Engaged in the historic Lincoln-Douglas debates in 1858 against Abraham Lincoln, which highlighted issues of slavery and states' rights. Also promoted the passage of the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854, which allowed territories to decide on the legality of slavery.
Continue ReadingMaarten Tromp
Dutch admiral and naval commander
Born
April 23rd, 1598 427 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1653 372 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent Dutch admiral in the 17th century, played a key role in the naval conflicts between the Dutch Republic and Spain during the Eighty Years' War. Commanded the Dutch fleet at the Battle of Delft in 1653, achieving a decisive victory against the English fleet. Demonstrated exceptional naval tactics and strategies which contributed to the supremacy of the Dutch navy during this period. Died in battle during the Second Anglo-Dutch War.
Continue ReadingJoan of France
Duchess of Berry and noblewoman
Born
April 23rd, 1464 561 years ago
Died
1505 521 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1464, Joan of France held the title of Duchess of Berry. She was part of the French royal family, representing the House of Valois. Marrying the Duke of Berry solidified her status in the nobility. Throughout her life, she played a key role in courtly affairs and participated in the cultural and social life of the French aristocracy during the late 15th century. Joan's lineage connected her to significant political alliances of her time, linking her closely to the royal family and influential noble houses.
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