Empress Meishō of Japan

Japanese Empress and ruler during Edo period

Empress Meishō of Japan - Japanese Empress and ruler during Edo period
Born

January 9th, 1624
401 years ago

Died

December 4th, 1696
328 years ago — 72 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Japan

Links & References

Reigned as Empress from 1629 to 1643 during the Edo period. Ascended to the throne following the abdication of Empress Tōshō. Oversaw a period where imperial authority was reduced under the Tokugawa shogunate. Her reign was marked by the establishment of courtly traditions and support for culture, including literature and the arts.

Served as the 108th Emperor of Japan

Abdicated in favor of her younger sister

Contributed to the cultural life of the imperial court

Other People Born on January 9th

Ágnes Keleti

Hungarian Olympic gymnast and champion
Born
January 9th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2025 0 years ago — 103 years old

A prominent figure in gymnastics, this individual competed in several Olympic Games, achieving remarkable success. In the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, secured gold medals in the women's individual all-around and floor exercise. Continued to excel in subsequent competitions, notably capturing additional medals at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Later focused on coaching and promoting gymnastics, contributing to the sport's development. Historical significance includes being one of the oldest living Olympic champions.

Continue Reading

Jennie Jerome

Socialite and mother of Winston Churchill
Born
January 9th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1921 104 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Brooklyn, a prominent figure in British society and a socialite, played a significant role in high society during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Married Lord Randolph Churchill, a notable British politician, and became the mother of Winston Churchill, who later served as British Prime Minister. Actively participated in political discussions and hosted many influential figures at her gatherings. Her connections and influence were vital in shaping her son's political career.

Continue Reading

Patrick Peyton

Television personality and activist
Born
January 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 83 years old

An Irish-American priest, prominent in promoting the power of prayer within families, became well-known through the global television series 'Family Theater'. Founded the Family Rosary Crusade, which aimed to encourage family prayer. Advocated for the importance of prayer in daily life and its impact on family unity. Conducted numerous public rallies to promote family prayer and led initiatives that spread devotion to the Rosary worldwide.

Continue Reading

Edwin Baker

Canadian soldier and educator
Born
January 9th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1968 57 years ago — 75 years old

Served as a soldier during World War I and later became an educator. Co-founded the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, an organization focused on supporting individuals with visual impairments. Contributed to advancements in education and services for the blind throughout Canada, playing a pivotal role in improving quality of life for those facing challenges associated with vision loss.

Continue Reading

Angie Martinez

American rapper and radio host
Born
January 9th, 1971 54 years ago

A prominent figure in hip hop, contributions included hosting a radio show on Hot 97, which became one of the most influential platforms in the music industry. Released a debut album titled 'Up Close and Personal' in 2000, featuring collaborations with various artists. Acted in films including 'Brown Sugar' and appeared on television series such as 'The Dark Knight Rises.' Established a reputation for interviewing numerous noteworthy figures and providing insight into the hip hop culture.

Continue Reading

K Callan

Actress in 'Superman' and 'Malcolm in the Middle'
Born
January 9th, 1936 89 years ago

An American actress and author, significant work includes guest roles in television series such as 'Malcolm in the Middle' and feature films like 'Superman' and 'Superman II'. K Callan has displayed versatility across various genres including comedy and drama. Additionally, she has authored works that explore the craft of acting and personal experiences, contributing to the literature in the realm of performing arts.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 4th

Roger Bresnahan

Baseball player and manager, World Series champ
Born
June 11th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1944 80 years ago — 65 years old

Played as a catcher and outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1897 to 1915. Managed teams after his playing career, including the Chicago Cubs. Contributed to the early development of the catcher position with innovative techniques and equipment, helping to shape the role. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1945.

Continue Reading

Patrick Tambay

Race car driver, 1982 Belgian Grand Prix winner
Born
June 25th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2022 2 years ago — 73 years old

This individual was a French racing driver who competed in Formula One during the 1970s and 1980s. He participated in 114 Grands Prix, debuting in 1977. Tambay drove for several teams, including the renowned Scuderia Ferrari and the Ligier team. His most notable achievement came in 1982 when he secured victory at the Belgian Grand Prix. He also contributed to the sport by driving in endurance racing and performed with notable success in several prestigious events.

Continue Reading

Shashi Kapoor

Indian actor and film producer, starred in films
Born
March 18th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2017 7 years ago — 79 years old

An Indian actor and film producer, active in Indian cinema, featured prominently in Bollywood. Gained recognition in the 1970s and 1980s for performances in significant films. Worked extensively in Hindi and English films, participating in numerous international co-productions. Received acclaim for roles in works such as 'Deewar,' 'Kabhi Kabhie,' and 'Namak Halaal.' Contributed to the establishment of the Prithvi Theatre in Mumbai, a crucial platform for nurturing theatrical talent.

Continue Reading

Hannah Arendt

Political theorist and philosopher
Born
October 14th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1975 49 years ago — 69 years old

Born in Germany, a major 20th-century political theorist. Emigrated to the United States in the late 1930s. Writings focus on totalitarianism, authority, and the nature of power. Authored influential works including 'The Origins of Totalitarianism' and 'The Human Condition'. Contributed to public discourse on political philosophy and ethics throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

Continue Reading

John Tyndall

Physicist and mountaineer in the UK
Born
August 2nd, 1820 204 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1893 131 years ago — 73 years old

A physicist and mountaineer, focused on atmospheric physics and the science of gases. Conducted groundbreaking experiments on the absorption of heat by gases. Authored 'Heat as a Mode of Motion', introducing key concepts in thermodynamics. Played a significant role in the establishment of the field of physical optics. Contributed to the understanding of light polarization and the theory of why the sky is blue. Engaged in mountaineering, often leading expeditions in the Alps and advocating for the sport.

Continue Reading

Jack Mercer

Animator and voice actor for Popeye
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1984 40 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to the animation industry as an animator, screenwriter, voice actor, and singer. Worked primarily for Fleischer Studios and later for Famous Studios, gaining recognition for bringing the character Popeye the Sailor to life. Provided the voice for Popeye in numerous theatrical cartoons, creating a lasting legacy in animation. Also involved in various other animation projects, showcasing versatility in the craft.

Continue Reading