Charles III of Spain

King of Spain and influential monarch

Charles III of Spain - King of Spain and influential monarch
Born

January 20th, 1716
309 years ago

Died

December 14th, 1788
236 years ago — 72 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Spain

Links & References

Ruled as King of Spain from 1759 until death in 1788. Charles III implemented extensive reforms to modernize Spain, enhancing the economy and administrative efficiency. His reign is marked by significant cultural developments, including patronage of the arts and architecture. Established the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando and promoted science, education, and public works. Efforts towards secularization and a focus on the Enlightenment ideals defined his leadership.

Promoted the Bourbon Reforms to modernize Spain

Patronized the arts, including Goya's early work

Established the botanical garden in Madrid

Led Spain during the American Revolutionary War

Other People Born on January 20th

Johann Hermann Schein

German composer of vocal music
Born
January 20th, 1586 439 years ago
Died
1630 395 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1586, this composer significantly contributed to the early Baroque music scene. He served as a Thomaskantor in Leipzig, where he developed a distinctive style that combined Renaissance polyphony with emerging Baroque elements. The prolific output included a significant amount of church music, motets, and secular works. His compositions were characterized by rich harmonies and intricate counterpoint, influencing future generations of composers. Schein’s most notable works include the collection 'Cantionals' and operas that explored themes from mythology and religious texts.

Continue Reading

Yolanda González

Basque activist and militant leader
Born
January 20th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1980 45 years ago — 19 years old

An activist committed to Basque nationalism, involvement in leftist movements occurred during the late 20th century. Participated in protests advocating for independence and social justice in the Basque Country. Known for significant political activism and for her role in the context of Basque separatism. She became a symbol of resistance in the region due to her dedication to the cause, ultimately leading to her tragic death in 1988, which sparked national and international attention.

Continue Reading

McKeeva Bush

Caymanian politician, Premier of Cayman Islands
Born
January 20th, 1955 70 years ago

A politician from the Cayman Islands served as Premier. Elected to the Legislative Assembly, held multiple ministerial posts and led the United Democratic Party. Contributed to significant infrastructure projects during tenure. Focused on economic development and tourism sector growth.

Continue Reading

Natan Sharansky

Ukrainian-Israeli politician, Deputy PM
Born
January 20th, 1948 77 years ago

Born in Ukraine, became a prominent physicist before transitioning into politics. Arrested in the Soviet Union for his activism in advocating for Jewish emigration, spent nearly a decade in prison. After release, emigrated to Israel and entered political life. Served as the Deputy Prime Minister of Israel and held various ministerial roles. Played a significant role in Israeli politics and was an influential figure in the fight for human rights.

Continue Reading

Chris Morris

American basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
January 20th, 1966 59 years ago

Born in 1966, a basketball player played collegiate basketball at Auburn University. Achieved recognition during the 1987 NBA Draft, selected as the 4th overall pick by the Sacramento Kings. Played for multiple teams throughout the career, including the Atlanta Hawks and the New Jersey Nets. Contributed to the game with notable performances and was named an NBA All-Star in 1994. Served as a forward known for versatility on both offense and defense.

Continue Reading

Gary Barlow

English singer-songwriter and producer
Born
January 20th, 1971 54 years ago

A prominent singer-songwriter and music producer, achieved fame as the lead vocalist of the British pop group Take That. The group released several bestselling albums, gaining significant popularity in the 1990s and reuniting in the 2000s to further success. As a solo artist, released multiple albums including the acclaimed 'Open Road' and contributed to various charity singles. Recognized for composing numerous hits, including 'Back for Good.' Also served as a judge on 'The X Factor UK,' showcasing mentoring skills in the music industry.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 14th

Rinchinbal Khan

Mongolian emperor during the Yuan dynasty
Born
May 1st, 1326 699 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1332 692 years ago — 6 years old

Rinchinbal Khan served as an emperor of the Yuan dynasty in Mongolia during the 14th century. Rinchinbal reigned during a time of political challenges and changes within the empire. The rule was marked by various military campaigns aimed at consolidating power and responding to internal strife. Rinchinbal's leadership faced difficulties from rival factions and tribes within the Mongolian territories. Despite these challenges, his reign contributed to the continuity of the Yuan dynasty at a time when it was vulnerable to both internal and external pressures.

Continue Reading

Andrei Sakharov

Physicist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate
Born
May 21st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1989 35 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent physicist and academic contributed significantly to the development of thermonuclear weapons in the Soviet Union. Later, became an advocate for human rights and civil liberties within the USSR, opposing nuclear proliferation and governmental abuses. His activism led to political persecution, including house arrest from 1970 to 1979. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1975 for efforts toward disarmament and promoting human rights. Remains a symbol of intellectual and political opposition in Russia.

Continue Reading

George Gipp

American football player for Notre Dame
Born
1895 130 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1920 104 years ago — 25 years old

Played college football at the University of Notre Dame. Became a standout running back and quarterback during the 1917-1920 seasons. Contributed to Notre Dame's success, leading the team to multiple victories. Gipp's performance in the 1920 season earned significant acclaim. Died in 1920 from pneumonia, and his legacy continued to influence the sport.

Continue Reading

Thomas Tanner

English bishop and historian
Born
January 24th, 1674 351 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1735 289 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1674, a prominent English bishop and historian contributed significantly to ecclesiastical literature. Served as Bishop of St. Asaph from 1732 until death in 1735. Created a notable ecclesiastical history of English bishops, which provided detailed accounts of their lives and contributions to the church. His work remains a reference point for historical studies of the Anglican church and its leadership.

Continue Reading

Fernando Poe Jr.

Filipino actor and politician
Born
August 20th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2004 20 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent actor and politician from the Philippines, he gained widespread recognition through leading roles in action films during the 1970s and 1980s. Notable works include 'Ang Probinsyano' and 'Kapag Puno na ang Salop'. Transitioning into politics, he ran for president in 2004, although he did not win. His career in film spanned several decades, earning him a loyal fan base and significant box office success. He was instrumental in shaping the action genre in Philippine cinema.

Continue Reading

Rod Kanehl

American baseball player with the Mets
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2004 20 years ago — 70 years old

Played in Major League Baseball primarily for the New York Mets. Debuted in 1962 and played until 1965, contributing as an infielder and outfielder. Appeared in games during the Mets' early years, including their first World Series appearance in 1969, although not part of the championship team. After retiring, transitioned to coaching and scouting within the baseball community.

Continue Reading