Eric XIV of Sweden
King of Sweden, claimed throne in 1560
Became King of Sweden in 1560, ruling until 1577. His reign was marked by various military conflicts and attempts to solidify power in the Baltic region. Eric XIV engaged in wars against Denmark and Russia, aimed at expanding the kingdom's influence. His marriage to Karin Månsdotter, a commoner, caused friction with the nobility and led to political instability. In 1570, he faced a coup that resulted in his imprisonment and eventual forced abdication. Died in captivity in 1577.
Ruled Sweden from 1560 to 1577
Engaged in wars against Denmark and Russia
Imprisoned and deposed in 1570
Other People Born on December 13th
Fletcher Cox
American football defensive tackle
Born
December 13th, 1990 35 years ago
Experienced American football defensive tackle played for the Philadelphia Eagles in the National Football League (NFL). Cox was drafted in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Over the course of his career, he participated in multiple Pro Bowls and was integral in the Eagles' victory at Super Bowl LII in 2018. Cox's performance on the field led to recognition as one of the top defensive tackles in the league.
Continue ReadingJamal Fogarty
Rugby league player; Gold Coast Titans
Born
December 13th, 1993 32 years ago
Played rugby league for the Gold Coast Titans in the National Rugby League (NRL). Debuted in the NRL in 2020 and became a key player for the Titans. Contributed to the team's performance in several seasons, showcasing skills as a halfback. Demonstrated leadership on the field and became a vital part of the Titans' strategy and execution.
Continue ReadingVladimir Tarasenko
Professional ice hockey player
Born
December 13th, 1991 34 years ago
Played as a right winger in the NHL, primarily for the St. Louis Blues. Achieved recognition for offensive skills and goal-scoring ability. Played a key role in leading the Blues to their first Stanley Cup championship in 2019. Participated in multiple NHL All-Star Games and represented Russia in international competitions.
Continue ReadingMarina Bassols Ribera
Spanish tennis player with WTA titles
Born
December 13th, 1999 26 years ago
Competed professionally in tennis, achieving a career-high singles ranking within the WTA. Participated in various Grand Slam tournaments and gained recognition for contributions in both singles and doubles events. Excelled in junior competitions, securing notable titles and paving the way for a successful transition to professional tennis. Contributed to national representation in international team competitions.
Continue ReadingJames Kyson
American actor in 'Heroes'
Born
December 13th, 1975 50 years ago
An American actor, recognized for significant roles in television and film. Gained prominence for portraying Ando Masahashi in the NBC sci-fi series 'Heroes'. Also appeared in various other television series and films, showcasing a range of characters throughout a thriving career in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingTaylor Swift
Singer-songwriter and music icon
Born
December 13th, 1989 36 years ago
A prominent figure in the music industry, gained recognition as a country artist before transitioning to pop music. Released multiple albums, with significant commercial success. Notable works include 'Fearless', '1989', and 'Folklore'. Achieved major accolades, including numerous Grammy Awards. Engaged in philanthropy and advocacy for various causes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 26th
Johnny Kerr
American basketball player and coach
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 77 years old
A basketball player and coach, played for the Chicago Bulls in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1966 to 1969. Served as the head coach of the Bulls from 1966 to 1971 and led the team to notable early successes. Transitioned to a career in broadcasting, becoming a sportscaster for various networks. Achieved recognition for contributions to the sport through playing, coaching, and media.
Continue ReadingArnošt Lustig
Czech author and Holocaust survivor
Born
December 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2011 14 years ago — 84 years old
An influential Czech author and playwright, this individual gained recognition for literary works that centered around the Holocaust and experiences of Jewish identity. Born in Prague, the person survived various concentration camps during World War II, which deeply shaped the narratives penned in novels and screenplays. The body of work includes notable titles such as 'Dita Saxová' and 'Night and Hope', which explore themes of suffering, survival, and resilience. In addition to fiction, contributions to screenwriting included themes from Jewish history and culture, which garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally. The individual also spent time in the U.S., where involvement in educational and cultural exchange programs promoted awareness of Holocaust history through literature.
Continue ReadingMarie-Claire Alain
Organist and educator, notable for recordings
Born
August 10th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent organist and educator, contributed significantly to the field of organ music. Taught at the Conservatoire de Paris and published several educational works. Made numerous recordings, showcasing both classical pieces and contemporary works. Participated in international competitions as a juror and awarded multiple accolades for excellence in musicianship.
Continue ReadingRobert Aickman
English author of supernatural fiction
Born
June 27th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1981 44 years ago — 66 years old
An author renowned for supernatural fiction, this individual published numerous short stories and novels that explored the uncanny. Many works highlighted a distinct narrative style and atmospheric tension, often blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural. A founding member of the Inner London Group, he contributed to the literary scene while engaging in various activist causes. The collection 'Cold Hand in Mine' featuring stories from the 1950s stands out among publications, embodying the eerie and thought-provoking themes characteristic of this author's literary oeuvre.
Continue ReadingPrince Josias of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld
Prince and Military Leader of Saxe-Coburg
Born
December 26th, 1737 287 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1815 210 years ago — 77 years old
Held the title of Prince of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld and served as a military officer. Participated in the Napoleonic Wars, particularly noted for contributions to the campaigns against France. Involved in various military engagements during the early 19th century, demonstrating leadership and strategic skills.
Continue ReadingJoseph Wapner
Television Judge on The People's Court
Born
November 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2017 8 years ago — 97 years old
Served as a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court and later became a television personality. Gained recognition as the presiding judge on the reality courtroom series 'The People's Court', which premiered in 1981 and popularized the genre of court shows. Wapner's rigorous but fair adjudication style contributed to the show's success and longevity. His contributions to the legal and television fields made him a well-recognized figure in American popular culture.
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