Carol I of Romania

King of Romania, unifier and modernizer

Carol I of Romania - King of Romania, unifier and modernizer
Born

April 20th, 1839
186 years ago

Died

October 10th, 1914
110 years ago — 75 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Romania

Links & References

Born in 1839, a prominent figure in Romanian history, served as the first King of Romania from 1881 until 1914. Played a crucial role in the unification of Romanian principalities, leading to the establishment of the modern Romanian state. Through efforts for modernization, facilitated major reforms in the military, education, and infrastructure. Oversaw Romania during significant events like the War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire, securing recognition of Romanian independence in 1878. Advocated for a constitutional monarchy and strengthened the royal institution.

Established Romania as a unified kingdom

Secured independence from the Ottoman Empire

Modernized the military and infrastructure

Other People Born on April 20th

Robert Byrne

Chess player and author
Born
April 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

A chess player and author, contributions included participation in multiple U.S. Championship tournaments and authorship of instructional books on chess. Achieved the title of International Grandmaster and became a two-time U.S. Chess Champion. Involved in promoting chess through writing and playing, with published works that focused on strategy and tactics in the game. Contributed to chess literature, enhancing understanding and appreciation of chess.

Continue Reading

Odilon Redon

French painter; The Eye, Like a Strange Balloon
Born
April 20th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1916 108 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent painter and illustrator associated with the Symbolist movement. Produced works that often featured dreamlike imagery and an exploration of the subconscious. Utilized various mediums including oil painting, charcoal, and pastel. Worked largely in isolation, developing a unique style characterized by a focus on color and form. Early in his career, created lithographs that showcased fantastical themes, later transitioning to canvas paintings that evoked emotional and psychological depth.

Continue Reading

Irene Lieblich

Painter and illustrator of landscapes
Born
April 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2008 16 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Poland and later relocating to the United States, a significant career as a painter and illustrator unfolded. Focused primarily on landscapes, works often reflected the interplay of light and color. Contributed to various exhibitions and illustrated books, combining artistic intuition with technical skill. Active in the art community, participating in local and national art shows, gaining recognition for distinctive style.

Continue Reading

Jessica Lange

Actress known for roles in 'Tootsie'
Born
April 20th, 1949 76 years ago

An acclaimed American actress, this individual gained recognition for performances in film and television. Major roles included the films 'Tootsie' and 'Blue Sky', both of which garnered critical acclaim and awards. Also received praise for portraying a character in the television series 'American Horror Story'. She has won multiple awards, including two Academy Awards and several Golden Globe Awards, highlighting exceptional talent and versatility in acting.

Continue Reading

Adolf Schärf

Austrian politician and President
Born
April 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 6th President of Austria from 1957 to 1965. Prior to his presidency, held various roles in public service including deputy mayor of Vienna and member of the Austrian Parliament. Participated in military service during World War I. Advocated for social democratic principles and worked on post-war reconstruction efforts in Austria.

Continue Reading

Henry de Montherlant

French essayist and novelist
Born
April 20th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1972 52 years ago — 77 years old

Contributed significantly to French literature through works that explore themes of existentialism and the human condition. Notable works include the novel 'La Reine Morte' and the essay collection 'La Ville dont le Prince est un Enfant.' Active in the literary scene during the 20th century, engaged with academic and cultural discourses of the time. Also involved in theater, writing plays that garnered attention.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 10th

Édith Piaf

French singer-songwriter and actress
Born
December 19th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1963 61 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent figure in French music, recognized for a powerful and emotive vocal style. Gained fame in the 1940s and 1950s with popular songs exploring love and loss. Achieved international acclaim through performances in Paris and abroad, especially in the United States. Piaf's music often reflected her tumultuous life, including themes of heartbreak and resilience. The signature song, 'La Vie en rose,' became emblematic of her career and has remained influential in popular culture. Additionally, starred in films that showcased her talent and charisma.

Continue Reading

Solomon Burke

Soul singer known for 'Cry to Me'
Born
March 21st, 1940 85 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2010 14 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1940, this singer-songwriter emerged as a prominent figure in the soul music genre during the 1960s. The artist's career was marked by a unique blend of gospel, rhythm and blues, and rock elements. The debut album featured the hit single 'Cry to Me,' which gained significant attention and has been featured in numerous films and television shows. The artist also released multiple successful albums, with a career spanning over five decades, showcasing a distinctive vocal style and poignant songwriting. In addition to solo work, collaborations with various musicians added to a rich musical legacy. Additionally, the artist was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, highlighting a significant influence on the genre.

Continue Reading

Vasily Mishin

Russian aerospace engineer and designer
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2001 23 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the chief designer at the Soviet space program, leading the development of several significant spacecraft. Oversaw the design and production of the Soyuz spacecraft and contributed to the development of the N1 rocket intended for lunar missions. Played a crucial role in advancing Soviet space exploration efforts during the 1960s and 1970s, shaping the future of human spaceflight.

Continue Reading

William H. Seward

U.S. Secretary of State, negotiated Alaska
Born
May 16th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1872 152 years ago — 71 years old

A lawyer and politician, served as the 24th United States Secretary of State from 1861 to 1869. Played a crucial role in the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, a decision often referred to as 'Seward's Folly' at the time. Instrumental in supporting the Union during the Civil War and enhancing foreign relations. Advocated for the abolition of slavery and promoted various reforms throughout his political career.

Continue Reading

Gabriel Prosser

American rebel leader of 1800.
Born
1776 249 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1800 224 years ago — 24 years old

A Virginia slave and blacksmith organized a planned revolt against slavery in the United States in 1800. The uprising aimed to capture Richmond, Virginia, and confront the local government. Despite meticulous planning and support from other enslaved individuals, the rebellion was thwarted before it commenced due to betrayal. As a result, numerous participants were arrested, and Prosser was captured. He was subsequently tried and executed, making him a symbol of resistance against slavery in American history.

Continue Reading

Milton Obote

Politician and 2nd President of Uganda
Born
December 28th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2005 19 years ago — 79 years old

An engineer and politician, served as the Prime Minister of Uganda from 1962 to 1966 and as the President from 1966 to 1971 and again from 1980 to 1985. Led the country during its early post-independence period and implemented policies aimed at national development. Oversaw significant social and political changes, including the abolition of traditional kingdoms. His rule included a controversial period marked by political repression.

Continue Reading