Constantine the Great
Roman Emperor and First Christian Emperor
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Roman Empire
Links & References
Ruled as Roman Emperor from 306 to 337. Founded the city of Constantinople, which became the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. Played a pivotal role in the Edict of Milan, granting religious tolerance within the empire and promoting Christianity. Initiated significant reforms in military and administrative structures.
Established Constantinople as a major city
Issued the Edict of Milan granting religious freedom
Other People Born on February 27th
Gene Sarazen
Golfer; 1935 Masters Champion
Born
February 27th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1999 26 years ago — 97 years old
A professional golfer and sportscaster, achieved prominence in the early 20th century. Won numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open and the British Open. Pioneer of the modern golf swing and contributed to the popularity of golf through media appearances. Known for the invention of the sand wedge, which transformed short game play. Sarazen also served as a golf commentator, offering insights into the sport and its tournaments.
Continue ReadingJohn Connally
American politician and Treasury Secretary
Born
February 27th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1993 32 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 39th Governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969. Held the position of 61st United States Secretary of the Treasury from 1971 to 1972. Played a significant role in the economic policies of the Nixon administration, including the introduction of wage and price controls. Associated with the Democratic and later the Republican party during his political career.
Continue ReadingMeena Keshwar Kamal
Afghan activist and women's rights leader
Born
February 27th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 31 years old
An Afghan activist founded the Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan (RAWA) in 1977, advocating for women's rights amid political turmoil. The organization focused on education, social justice, and women's empowerment, especially during the Soviet invasion and the rise of the Taliban. The activist faced significant danger and opposition due to her activism, resulting in her assassination in 1987. Despite this, the organization continues to operate, promoting the causes she championed.
Continue ReadingIrwin Shaw
American author and screenwriter
Born
February 27th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1984 41 years ago — 71 years old
An author and screenwriter contributed significantly to American literature and film. Wrote novels such as 'Rich Man, Poor Man' and 'The Young Lions', which explored themes of success, war, and human relationships. Worked as a screenwriter for various Hollywood films, including adaptations of his own literary works. Shaw's plays and stories have been published in prestigious magazines, reflecting a strong narrative style and engaging character development.
Continue ReadingCarl A. Anderson
Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus
Born
February 27th, 1951 75 years ago
Served as the 13th Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, leading one of the largest Catholic fraternal organizations in the world. Oversaw significant growth during tenure, enhancing charitable initiatives and expanding membership. Advocated for religious freedom and the role of faith in public life, emphasizing the importance of community service and support for families. Played a crucial role in initiatives aimed at increasing the visibility of the Knights of Columbus within the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingJoan Bennett
American actress in classic cinema
Born
February 27th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1990 35 years ago — 80 years old
Debuted in film in the silent era and transitioned smoothly into talkies. Played significant roles in films such as 'Little Women' and 'Scarlet Street'. Achieved acclaim for performances in film noir during the 1940s. Also had a successful television career, notably starring in the soap opera 'Dark Shadows' in the late 1960s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 22nd
Victor Hugo
French author and playwright of Les Misérables
Born
February 26th, 1802 224 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1885 140 years ago — 83 years old
A significant figure in French literature, this individual was a poet, novelist, and playwright. They wrote extensively during the 19th century, producing works that addressed social issues such as poverty and injustice. Major contributions include 'Les Misérables', exploring the lives of characters grappling with redemption and societal constraints, and 'Notre-Dame de Paris', highlighting the fate of the tragic figure Quasimodo. Their writings explored themes of love, politics, and morality, influencing literature and social thought.
Continue ReadingPope Alexander VII
Papal leadership during the 17th century
Born
February 13th, 1599 427 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1667 358 years ago — 68 years old
Served as pope from 1655 until death in 1667. Oversaw significant artistic patronage in the Baroque period, including the completion of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Strengthened the authority of the papacy amidst the challenges of the Protestant Reformation and various political conflicts in Europe. Promoted the Catholic Church's interests in several territories, particularly in France and the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingThurl Ravenscroft
Voice actor and singer of Disney fame
Born
February 6th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent voice actor and singer contributed to numerous animated films and projects. Best recognized for voicing Tony the Tiger in the Kellogg's Frosted Flakes commercials, the voice extended over several decades, becoming a recognizable character for many. Also contributed vocal talents to Disney productions, including roles in 'The Haunted Mansion' and various animated films. With a background in music, performed as a singer in the 'The Singing Dogs' and in other musical projects that showcased a rich baritone voice.
Continue ReadingFrançois-Marie
French general and diplomat
Born
January 11th, 1671 355 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1745 280 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1671, served as a prominent military leader and diplomat. Achieved the rank of général and played a significant role in several battles during the War of the Spanish Succession, influencing military strategies of the time. Also, held various diplomatic positions, negotiating treaties and alliances to advance French interests.
Continue ReadingJules Renard
French author and playwright
Born
February 22nd, 1864 162 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1910 115 years ago — 46 years old
Born in 1864, a prominent French author and playwright contributed significantly to literature with a focus on realism and observation of human behavior. His works often depicted everyday life and the complexities of nature and society. Notable creations include the play 'Pains de Sucre' and the collection 'Histoires Naturelles', illustrating an acute understanding of the human experience through concise and vivid prose. Renard's literary voice resonated with themes of nature, personal introspection, and social critique, reflecting the intricacies of life during his time.
Continue ReadingThomas Clifford
English noble and 8th Baron de Clifford
Born
March 25th, 1414 611 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1455 570 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1414, enfeoffed with extensive lands in England, held the title of 8th Baron de Clifford. Engaged in military and political matters during the early 15th century, particularly relating to the ongoing conflicts of the time. Inherited the barony following the death of his father, becoming involved in the governance of local estates and representation in Parliament. His tenure contributed to the stability of noble lineage in the region.
Continue Reading