Conan IV
Duke of Brittany, leader in the 12th century

Born
1138
887 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1171
854 years ago — 33 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
France
Links & References
Ruled Brittany from 1113 until death in 1171. Became duke after a disputed succession. Engaged in conflicts with the Kingdom of England and the Angevin Empire. Strengthened the local nobility and expanded the duchy's territorial influence. Associated with the introduction of reforms that stabilized governance in Brittany. Participated in the political alliances of the period, notably marrying to secure these relationships.
Duke of Brittany from 1113 to 1171
Strengthened local nobility
Expanded territorial influence in Brittany
Other People Who Died on February 20th
Tecun Uman
Served as a prominent leader of the K'iche' Maya during the Spanish conquest of Guatemala. Led the resistance against Spanish forces led by Pedro de Alvarado. Fought valiantly to protect the independence and sovereignty of the indigenous people. Tecun Uman is often remembered as a symbol of Mayan resistance to colonial domination.
Continue ReadingNicholas Bacon
Served as the Lord Keeper of the Great Seal from 1558 until death in 1579. Played a significant role in Elizabethan politics, supporting the queen during her reign. As a prominent figure in the Privy Council, contributed to important legislative matters and the administration of justice. Involved in various diplomatic missions and the management of foreign policy. Maintained a strong advisory role to Elizabeth I, impacting the governance of England during a crucial period.
Continue ReadingRafael Addiego Bruno
Served as President of Uruguay from 1985 to 1986. Participated in the return to democratic rule following years of military dictatorship. Contributed to the establishment of political stability and representation in the country during a transitional period. Held various other political positions throughout a lengthy career in public service, which focused on legal and political reform in Uruguay.
Continue ReadingGene Siskel
This individual served as a prominent film critic and journalist, co-hosting the television program 'At the Movies' alongside Roger Ebert for over two decades. The program became influential in defining film criticism on television, providing reviews and insights on a wide range of films. The critic also wrote for the Chicago Tribune, where a column and reviews highlighted cinematic works, influencing public perception and the film industry. His work often involved spirited debates about films, particularly in the context of popular culture. The critic's legacy endures in the field of film journalism, shaping how films are critiqued and approached by audiences.
Continue ReadingMaurice Blanchot
A prominent figure in literature and philosophy, contributed significantly to the fields of existentialism and literary theory. Wrote influential works exploring the relationship between fiction and reality. Engaged in dialogues with existentialist philosophers and critical theorists. His notable writings include 'The Space of Literature' and 'The Writing of the Disaster,' which delve into themes of absence, trauma, and the limits of language. Held a unique position in the development of post-structuralism and the philosophy of writing.
Continue ReadingFrederick Douglass
Born into slavery, became a prominent author, speaker, and reformer advocating for the emancipation of enslaved people and for women's rights. Authored several autobiographies detailing experiences as a slave and the journey to freedom, the most famous being 'Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave'. Founded and edited influential anti-slavery newspapers. Played a significant role in the abolitionist movement and was an advisor to President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, advocating for the enlistment of Black soldiers. Continued to fight for civil rights after the war.
Continue Reading