Gia Long
Vietnamese emperor and ruler
Ruled as the first emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 until death in 1820. Established the capital city in Hue and implemented significant reforms in administration, military, and social structure. Strengthened central authority and initiated interactions with foreign powers. His reign marked the beginning of a unified Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty.
Founded the Nguyen Dynasty
Established Hue as the capital city
Implemented administrative reforms
Other People Born on February 8th
Daniel Bernoulli
Mathematician & physicist, fluid dynamics
Born
February 8th, 1700 325 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1782 243 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent mathematician and physicist, contributions to fluid dynamics established fundamental principles in this field. Developed the Bernoulli's principle, which describes the behavior of fluid flow and is essential in various applications, including aerodynamics and hydrodynamics. Authored the influential work 'Hydrodynamica,' which laid the groundwork for modern fluid mechanics. Alongside, made significant advancements in probability theory and statistics.
Continue ReadingClaro M. Recto
Filipino lawyer and politician
Born
February 8th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1890, a prominent lawyer, jurist, and politician in the Philippines. Served in the Philippine Senate during the mid-1900s, advocating for Philippine nationalism and sovereignty. Recto was a key figure in the drafting of several laws aimed at promoting education and social justice. He also held various roles in government, including serving as Secretary of Foreign Affairs. As an author, he contributed significantly to Philippine literature, and his works often reflected his nationalistic views. Known for his eloquence and strong stance against colonialism, Recto played a crucial role in shaping political discourse in the Philippines during his time.
Continue ReadingDmitri Mendeleev
Chemist best known for the Periodic Table
Born
February 8th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1907 118 years ago — 72 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry with the formulation of the Periodic Law and the creation of the Periodic Table of Elements. Mendeleev organized elements based on atomic mass and properties, predicting the existence and properties of several yet-to-be-discovered elements. Worked extensively in the areas of physical chemistry and chemical analysis. Also engaged in teaching and authored several academic texts, elevating the standard of chemical education in Russia.
Continue ReadingDaniele Barbaro
Venetian diplomat and scholar
Born
February 8th, 1514 511 years ago
Died
1570 455 years ago — 56 years old
A Venetian churchman and diplomat during the Renaissance, contributions centered around culture and architecture. Served as a bishop in the Diocese of Padua and held significant roles in the Venetian government. Engaged in diplomatic missions, particularly to the papal court. Actively studied and promoted the works of ancient philosophers and theorists, contributing to the understanding of classical texts. Authored influential treatises on architecture and was involved in the planning of the Venetian state’s cultural strategies.
Continue ReadingJack Lemmon
American actor, 'Some Like It Hot'
Born
February 8th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2001 24 years ago — 76 years old
An American actor achieved prominence in film and theater during the mid-20th century. Starred in iconic films such as 'Some Like It Hot', 'The Odd Couple', and 'Missing'. Lemmon received numerous accolades throughout his career, including two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor in 'Mister Roberts' and Best Actor in 'Save the Tiger'. His comedic timing and dramatic performances endeared him to audiences and critics alike.
Continue ReadingWilliam Tecumseh Sherman
Union general during Civil War
Born
February 8th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1891 134 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Commanded the military division of the Mississippi, which played a pivotal role in several key campaigns. Conducted the famous March to the Sea, during which his troops advanced from Atlanta to Savannah, implementing a strategy of total war. This campaign significantly weakened Confederate resources and morale. After the war, occupied the position of commanding general of the United States Army.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 3rd
Zalman King
Actor and director of erotic films
Born
May 23rd, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
An actor, director, and producer, contributed significantly to the genre of erotic cinema. Created and produced the television series "Red Shoe Diaries," which became a cult classic. Directed and produced the film "9½ Weeks," a notable work that explored themes of sensuality. Worked on various other film and television projects throughout a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingDritëro Agolli
Albanian poet and politician
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent Albanian poet and writer, played a significant role in the cultural and political landscape of Albania. Agolli's literary work includes poetry, novels, and essays that reflect the socio-political context of the country. Served as a member of the Albanian Parliament and held leadership positions within the Albanian Writers' Union. Notable literary contributions include the poetry collection 'Këngët e Fajës' and the novel 'Shkolla e Shtatë', which explored themes of love and solitude within a changing society. Received various awards for literary achievements, influencing generations of writers.
Continue ReadingAndrzej Szczeklik
Polish physician and medical academic
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
Worked in the field of internal medicine and contributed significantly to understanding respiratory diseases. Held a professorship at the Jagiellonian University in Krakow and published extensively on asthma and allergic diseases. Served as the president of the Polish Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Authored several books, including notable works on the history of medicine and human diseases.
Continue ReadingOscar Feltsman
Pianist and composer from Ukraine
Born
February 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Ukraine in 1921, a distinguished pianist and composer emerged, contributing significantly to classical music. After relocating, performed extensively in both Ukraine and Russia. Established a reputation through numerous concert performances, showcasing remarkable technical skill and emotional depth. Also engaged in teaching, sharing knowledge with aspiring musicians. Feltsman's compositions include works for solo piano, chamber music, and orchestral pieces, demonstrating a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. The artist continued to influence the piano and composition landscape until his later years.
Continue ReadingJohn IV
German Count and military leader
Born
August 1st, 1410 615 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1475 550 years ago — 64 years old
Count of Nassau-Siegen held significant territorial influence in the Holy Roman Empire. Engaged in military campaigns during the late 15th century, focusing on the consolidation of power within his domains. The count established a strong lineage that played a prominent role in regional politics and military affairs. He governed with strategic foresight, navigating the complex relationships among nobles and the emperor. His contributions to the military and administrative structures of his time set a precedent for future governance in the region.
Continue ReadingNasim Hasan Shah
Chief Justice of Pakistan
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Served as Chief Justice of Pakistan from 1991 to 1994. Had a prominent legal career, contributing to significant judicial decisions and reforms within the Pakistani legal system. Played a key role in cases related to constitutional law and civil rights.
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