Celestine III

Pope and leader of the Catholic Church

Celestine III - Pope and leader of the Catholic Church
Born

1106
919 years ago

Died

January 8th, 1198
827 years ago — 92 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Italy

Links & References

Served as pope from 1191 until 1198, guiding the Catholic Church during a period marked by political and ecclesiastical challenges. Issued several papal decrees and sought to consolidate the authority of the papacy. Notable for mediating disputes involving the Holy Roman Empire and for promoting the interests of the Church in various regions. Aimed to strengthen the papal system and maintain the governance of Church lands amidst external pressures.

Served as pope from 1191 to 1198

Issued important papal decrees

Mediated conflicts involving the Holy Roman Empire

Other People Who Died on January 8th

George Bellows

American painter of boxing scenes
Born
1882 143 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1925 100 years ago — 43 years old

A prominent American painter, noted for contributions to the Ashcan School, which focused on depicting daily life in early 20th century America. Worked primarily with oil on canvas, capturing scenes of urban life and sports. Gained acclaim for boxing paintings that illustrated the intensity and drama of the sport. Participated in exhibitions at the National Academy of Design and was a member of the influential Society of American Artists. His style is characterized by vigorous brushwork and bold colors, revealing a raw energy that resonated with contemporary audiences. Held a significant influence on American art and left a lasting legacy through his explorations of realism and expressionism in various social settings.

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

Hilary Smart

American sailor and world champion
Born
July 29th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2000 25 years ago — 74 years old

Sailed competitively, achieving significant success in various sailing events. Competed in the 1996 Summer Olympics, showcasing skills at an international level. Won multiple national championships and gained recognition as a top sailor in the United States. Contributed to the growth of sailing as a sport through coaching and mentorship to younger sailors, promoting the sport within local communities.

Continue Reading

Vladimír Mandl

Czechoslovak lawyer with legal influence
Born
March 20th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1941 84 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent lawyer in Czechoslovakia, contributed significantly to legal practices in the early 20th century. Worked extensively in the field of civil law and participated in various legal reforms that shaped the legal landscape of the country. Advocated for the rule of law and the protection of legal rights during a tumultuous period in Czechoslovak history. Engaged in legal academia, influencing future generations of lawyers and legal scholars.

Continue Reading

François Mitterrand

French politician and former president
Born
October 26th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1996 29 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent French politician served as the 21st President of France from 1981 to 1995. Played a significant role in shaping modern French politics. Launched several major reforms, including the abolition of the death penalty and the nationalization of key industries. Focused on European integration and was influential in the establishment of the Maastricht Treaty. Had a long political career spanning several decades, including leadership of the Socialist Party.

Continue Reading

Thorbjørn Svenssen

Norwegian footballer
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2011 14 years ago — 87 years old

Played as a forward and spent a significant portion of the career at Lillestrøm SK, where notable performances included competing in the Norwegian top division. Additionally represented the national team, contributing to its presence in European competitions. Engaged in football activities until retirement.

Continue Reading