Enrique Simonet

Spanish painter and academic (El regreso de Colón)

Enrique Simonet - Spanish painter and academic (El regreso de Colón)
Born

February 2nd, 1866
159 years ago

Died

April 20th, 1927
97 years ago — 61 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Spain

Links & References

A prominent Spanish painter and academic, contributed significantly to the field of fine arts in Spain. Studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando and later influenced students through teaching. Simonet's works are characterized by historical themes, with a focus on the Spanish conquest and classical mythology. The painting 'El regreso de Colón' is particularly well-regarded, depicting Christopher Columbus's return from the New World. His style evolved throughout his career, incorporating elements of realism and impressionism, leading to a distinctive body of work admired in various exhibitions.

Painted 'El regreso de Colón'

Served as director of the Museo del Prado

Other People Born on February 2nd

Oleguer Presas

Spanish footballer and defender
Born
February 2nd, 1980 45 years ago

A professional footballer played as a defender primarily for FC Barcelona and Osasuna. Represented Barcelona from 1999 to 2006, contributing to the team's success in domestic and European competitions. Played a key role in Barcelona's victories in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. Transferred to Osasuna in 2005, where continued to compete in top-flight football until retiring from professional play. Also known for a strong commitment to social and political causes, particularly in Catalonia.

Continue Reading

Gabriel Naudé

French librarian and scholar
Born
February 2nd, 1600 425 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1653 371 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent figure in the 17th century, contributed significantly to the field of library science and scholarship. Authored 'Advis pour dresser une bibliothèque', a work that provided guidelines on building and managing libraries. Served as the librarian to Cardinal Mazarin, where established notable collections and advanced library organization practices. Actively participated in the intellectual community of his time, influencing librarianship and research methodologies.

Continue Reading

Peter Martyr d'Anghiera

Historian and author of 'De Orbe Novo'
Born
February 2nd, 1457 568 years ago
Died
1526 499 years ago — 69 years old

An Italian-Spanish historian and author, contributed significantly to the understanding of the New World through detailed accounts of exploration. Authored 'De Orbe Novo', a key work detailing the discoveries in the Americas. Served as a royal historian to the Spanish Crown, providing documentation of exploration and colonization efforts during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. His writings offered important narratives about the encounters between Europeans and indigenous peoples, shaping perceptions of the New World.

Continue Reading

Svetozar Gligorić

Chess Grandmaster and author
Born
February 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2012 12 years ago — 89 years old

A significant figure in chess during the mid-20th century, made notable contributions as a player and author. Achieved the title of Grandmaster in 1950 and participated in numerous tournaments across Europe and international competitions. Competed in both World Chess Championships and various chess Olympiads, contributing to the Yugoslav national team. Authored several books on chess strategy and theory, influencing aspiring players and enthusiasts.

Continue Reading

Paul Kilgus

Baseball player and pitcher
Born
February 2nd, 1962 63 years ago

A right-handed pitcher, played in Major League Baseball from 1985 to 1995. Played for teams including the Chicago White Sox, Texas Rangers, and the Detroit Tigers. Contributed to various teams with solid pitching performances across different seasons. After retiring from professional play, continued involvement in baseball through coaching and mentoring young athletes.

Continue Reading

Harrison Smith

American football safety for the Vikings
Born
February 2nd, 1989 36 years ago

Played as a safety in the National Football League. Spent his entire career with the Minnesota Vikings since being drafted in 2012. Achieved multiple Pro Bowl selections and earned First-team All-Pro honors in 2017. Contributed significantly to the team's defense and participated in several playoff games.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 20th

Dorothy Height

Educator and civil rights activist
Born
March 24th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2010 14 years ago — 98 years old

An influential educator and civil rights activist, contributions focused on race and gender equality. Played a significant role in the National Council of Negro Women, serving as president from 1962 to 1998. Organized and participated in events such as the 1963 March on Washington. Advocated for educational opportunities for African American women and played a key role in the development of standards in education, particularly for marginalized communities.

Continue Reading

Hōjō Tokimune

regent of Japan during Kamakura period
Born
1251 774 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1284 740 years ago — 33 years old

Served as the regent of Japan during the Kamakura period. Oversaw a time of significant political control and stability for the Hōjō clan. Implemented reforms to strengthen the shogunate and maintained the authority of the samurai class. Played a pivotal role in the defense against the Mongol invasions of Japan in 1274 and 1281, leading to the victories that preserved Japanese sovereignty. Also promoted Zen Buddhism and was influential in cultural development during his regency.

Continue Reading

Mae Busch

Australian actress in silent films
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1946 78 years ago — 55 years old

Originating from Australia, a prominent actress emerged in the silent film era and transitioned into sound films. Starred in several successful productions, gaining recognition for roles in 'The Show of Shows' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Featured in comedy films and collaborated with renowned comedians of the time. Continued to act in films into the 1930s, showcasing versatility across genres until retirement from the screen.

Continue Reading

Steve Marriott

English singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
January 30th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1991 33 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent musician in the 1960s and 1970s, contributed significantly to rock music. Co-founded the band Small Faces, which achieved critical acclaim with hits such as 'Itchycoo Park' and 'Lazy Sunday.' Later formed Humble Pie, a band that blended rock with blues, featuring the successful album 'Smokin'' in 1972. Recognized for powerful vocals and energetic performances, left a lasting influence on the genre.

Continue Reading

Joseph Wolf

Ornithologist and wildlife illustrator
Born
January 21st, 1820 205 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1899 125 years ago — 79 years old

An ornithologist and illustrator focused on birds, contributed significantly to natural history with detailed studies of avian life. Became well recognized for works depicting birds, published various illustrations in scientific journals. Collaborated with naturalists, providing visuals for studies and enhancing the understanding of avifauna. Lived and worked primarily in England after emigrating from Germany.

Continue Reading

Don Siegel

Film director of 'Dirty Harry'
Born
October 26th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1991 33 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent American director and producer, focused primarily on the action and thriller genres. Best recognized for the film 'Dirty Harry', which helped establish the iconic character of Inspector Harry Callahan, portrayed by Clint Eastwood. Siegel's career included a range of films that showcased a gritty and realistic style, influencing future generations of filmmakers. He also directed movies such as 'Invasion of the Body Snatchers', which became a cult classic and showcased themes of paranoia and social commentary. His contributions to cinema earned him respect within the industry for his distinctive approach to storytelling and character development.

Continue Reading