Bernard-René de Launay
French politician and prison governor
Born
1740
285 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
France
Links & References
Served as the governor of the Bastille in Paris. Played a significant role during the early stages of the French Revolution. Held the position of governor during the storming of the Bastille, which took place on July 14, 1789, a pivotal moment in French history. Faced a crowd demanding the release of prisoners and the surrender of arms. After the storming, was captured, and subsequently killed by revolutionaries.
Governor of the Bastille during its storming
Captured during the French Revolution
Other People Who Died on July 14th
William H. Bonney
American gunfighter and outlaw
Died
July 14th, 1881 144 years ago — None years old
Born in the late 1850s, a notorious gunfighter operated in the American West during the late 19th century. Engaged in disputes with lawmen and became involved with various outlaw gangs. Gained fame through violent confrontations and his ability to elude capture. Died in 1881 at the age of 21 after a confrontation with law enforcement in New Mexico.
Continue ReadingAlphonse Mucha
Czech painter and illustrator of Art Nouveau
Born
July 24th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1939 86 years ago — 78 years old
Originated from the Czech Republic, this painter and illustrator was a prominent figure within the Art Nouveau movement. Mucha's artistic style is characterized by elaborate floral motifs, ornate typography, and graceful figures. He gained significant attention with his posters for the actress Sarah Bernhardt during the 1890s, which helped to popularize the Art Nouveau aesthetic. Apart from posters, he created paintings, decorative arts, and designs that reflected the cultural identity of his homeland. Mucha spent a significant part of his career in Paris, where his work garnered widespread acclaim in exhibitions. Later in life, he focused on more nationalist themes, producing a series of works titled 'The Slav Epic' that depicted the history and mythology of Slavic people.
Continue ReadingLéo Ferré
Monacan singer-songwriter and poet
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1993 32 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in French music and poetry, contributed significantly to the chanson genre. Began a career in music during the 1940s, merging literary poetry with song. Gained attention for political and social themes in work, often reflecting personal experiences and philosophical introspection. Released numerous albums, including 'Avec le temps,' which remains a quintessential piece recognized for its emotional depth. Continued to perform and write until the 1980s, influencing many contemporary artists and musicians.
Continue ReadingEdmond-Charles Genêt
Translator and diplomat during revolution
Born
January 8th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1834 191 years ago — 71 years old
Born in France in 1763, this individual became a notable figure during the French Revolution. He served as a diplomat for the French government, arriving in the United States as an envoy in 1793. His tenure as Minister Plenipotentiary was marked by attempts to secure American support for France, which included negotiating military alliances. His approach led to significant controversy, with conflicts arising over U.S. neutrality and Genêt's activities generating political tensions. Forced to return to France due to evolving diplomatic relations, he later settled in the United States, where he continued his work as a translator and was involved in local politics.
Continue ReadingAdlai Stevenson II
American diplomat and UN Ambassador
Born
February 5th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1965 60 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 5th United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 1961 to 1965. Played a significant role in foreign policy discussions during the Cold War, particularly during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Contributed to U.N. efforts focusing on the promotion of peace and international cooperation.
Continue ReadingEdward Vernon Utterson
English lawyer and historian focused on law
Born
1775 250 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1856 169 years ago — 81 years old
An English lawyer and historian, played a significant role in the legal and historical fields in the 19th century. Work included a detailed study of legal documents and the histories surrounding them, particularly in connection to notable legal figures and events. Authored various texts to elucidate historical and legal matters. Contributed to the understanding of historical legal practices and is remembered for meticulous research and analysis in his publications.
Continue Reading