Ferdinand Magellan
Explorer who led the first circumnavigation
Born
1480
545 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1521
503 years ago — 41 years old
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
Portugal
Links & References
Conducted the first successful expedition to circumnavigate the globe. Set sail from Spain in 1519 with a fleet of five ships, seeking a westward route to the Spice Islands. Discovered the strait that now bears his name, the Strait of Magellan, at the southern tip of South America. Magellan's voyage was ultimately completed by the remaining crew members, as he was killed in the Philippines in 1521.
Led the first circumnavigation of the globe
Discovered the Strait of Magellan
Other People Who Died on April 27th
Maria of Bosnia
Born into nobility, held the title of Countess of Helfenstein. Played a significant role in the political landscape of her time through strategic marriages and alliances. Her lineage connected her to various noble families in Europe. Became an integral figure in the governance and influence of Bosnia, navigating the intricacies of feudal politics during the late medieval period.
Continue ReadingGerard K. O'Neill
Contributions to physics included pioneering work in high-energy particle physics and the development of concepts for space colonization. Established the Space Studies Institute in 1977 to promote research in space technology and utilization. Published influential works including 'The High Frontier: Human Colonies in Space,' which proposed building space habitats and transforming the human experience beyond Earth. Served as a professor at Princeton University and had a significant impact on both theoretical and practical aspects of space exploration.
Continue ReadingIsidore of Kiev
Served as the Metropolitan of Kiev and all Rus', playing a significant role in the Orthodox Church during the early 15th century. Isidore was an influential religious figure who worked to unify the Eastern Orthodox and Catholic Churches. He participated in the Council of Florence, advocating for the union of the two churches. After returning to Kiev, faced opposition from local clergy and was eventually removed from his position. Spent later years in exile, continuing to promote the idea of church unity.
Continue ReadingAntonio Gramsci
A prominent figure in 20th-century political theory, engaged in Marxist philosophy and political analysis. Contributed to the understanding of cultural hegemony and the role of intellectuals in society. Imprisoned by the Fascist regime in Italy, produced significant works during incarceration, including the influential 'Prison Notebooks'. His writings emphasized the importance of culture in political struggle and the need for a broad coalition among workers.
Continue ReadingKatherine DeMille
An actress who appeared in numerous silent films and transitioned into sound films. DeMille starred in many productions during the 1920s and 1930s. Collaborated with significant filmmakers, including her husband, Cecil B. DeMille. Contributed to the film industry both in front of the camera and off-screen, influencing cinematic storytelling.
Continue ReadingWilliam Colby
Born in 1920, served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Joined the Office of Strategic Services, the predecessor to the CIA, and participated in intelligence operations. Became a key figure in the CIA during the Cold War. Appointed as the 10th Director of Central Intelligence in 1973, leading the agency during a turbulent period marked by the Watergate scandal. Oversaw controversial programs, such as the Phoenix Program in Vietnam. Resigned in 1975 following the Church Committee investigations into CIA activities.
Continue Reading