Celestine III

Pope and leader of the Catholic Church

Celestine III - Leaders & Politicians born 1106
Born

1106
919 years ago

Died
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

Galileo Galilei

Italian astronomer and physicist
Born
February 15th, 1564 461 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1642 383 years ago — 77 years old

Galileo Galilei contributed significantly to the fields of physics, mathematics, and astronomy during the early 17th century. He developed the telescope and made groundbreaking astronomical observations, including the moons of Jupiter and the phases of Venus. His support of heliocentrism, the model that places the Sun at the center of the universe, came into conflict with the prevailing geocentric views of his time, leading to his trial by the Roman Catholic Inquisition. He spent the latter part of his life under house arrest due to his writings and beliefs.

Continue Reading

John Baskerville

Printer and type designer of Baskerville
Born
January 28th, 1706 319 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1775 250 years ago — 68 years old

An English printer and typographer associated with the transition from old-style to modern typography. Developed the Baskerville typeface, characterized by its elegance and readability. Established a printing press in Birmingham, producing high-quality books noted for their clear type and layout. Innovated printing techniques, including the use of a special varnish to improve ink quality. Published editions of classical works and religious texts, garnering attention for aesthetic standards in printing.

Continue Reading

Steve Clark

English guitarist of Def Leppard
Born
April 23rd, 1960 65 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1991 34 years ago — 30 years old

Guitarist and songwriter contributed to the success of the rock band Def Leppard. Joined the band in 1978 and participated in the creation of multiple albums, including the highly acclaimed 'Hysteria' released in 1987. His guitar work became integral to the band's sound, which played a significant role in popularizing the rock genre during the 1980s. Played a prominent role in the band's performances and was a key contributor to their signature hits. Struggled with personal issues until untimely death in 1991.

Continue Reading

Andres Larka

Estonian general and Minister of War
Born
March 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1943 82 years ago — 63 years old

Served as the first Estonian Minister of War and played a significant role in shaping Estonia's military policies following the country's declaration of independence in 1918. Contributed to the establishment and organization of the Estonian Defence Forces during the War of Independence. Engaged in various military strategies to ensure the nation's security and sovereignty. Held various military ranks and participated in key military and political discussions pertaining to Estonia's defense and territorial integrity until his death in 1943.

Continue Reading

Tony Banks

Northern Irish politician and broadcaster
Born
March 27th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 55 years old

A broadcaster and politician, served as Minister for Sport and the Olympics. Played a significant role in British politics and public life, representing the Labour Party. Contributed to various public discussions regarding sports and cultural policies. Held the title of Baron Stratford, reflecting a position in the House of Lords.

Continue Reading

Alexander Prokhorov

Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 11th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in the development of laser technology. Collaborated with other scientists in research that led to the development of quantum electronics and maser technology. Served in various academic positions, sharing expertise in the field of applied physics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1964 for pioneering work in the field of lasers and their applications.

Continue Reading