Girolamo Savonarola
Italian priest and reformer
Born in 1452, served as a Dominican friar in Florence and became a prominent preacher. Advococated for church reform and denounced corruption within the clergy and secular authority. Played a vital role in the expulsion of the Medici family from Florence. Established a theocratic government that enforced strict moral regulations. His sermons attracted large crowds and his influence grew, leading to the infamous 'Bonfire of the Vanities', where secular and immoral items were burned.
Expelled the Medici family from Florence
Led the Bonfire of the Vanities
Established a theocratic regime in Florence
Other People Born on September 21st
Heike Kamerlingh Onnes
Physicist; Nobel Prize in Physics 1913
Born
September 21st, 1853 172 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1926 100 years ago — 72 years old
Contributions to the field of physics included research on superconductivity. Discovered the phenomenon of superconductivity in mercury when cooled to a low temperature. Conducted pioneering experiments on low-temperature physics, which had a substantial impact on the development of cryogenics. Held a position as a professor at Leiden University and directed the laboratory for experimental physics there.
Continue ReadingDon Preston
Keyboard player in The Mothers of Invention
Born
September 21st, 1932 93 years ago
A keyboard player and composer, contributed significantly to the avant-garde music scene. Joined The Mothers of Invention, a band formed by Frank Zappa, and made contributions to albums such as 'Freak Out!' and 'We're Only in It for the Money'. Participated in various musical projects, showcasing skills in electronic music and improvisation. Collaborated with numerous artists and participated in live performances across different genres, influencing contemporaries and future musicians.
Continue ReadingPolyxena of Hesse-Rotenburg
Countess Consort of Hohenlohe-Neuenstein
Born
September 21st, 1706 319 years ago
Died
1735 291 years ago — 29 years old
Born in 1706, a member of the House of Hesse-Rotenburg, married to Heinrich Friedrich, Count of Hohenlohe-Neuenstein. Resided in Hohenlohe-Neuenstein where played a significant role in the local aristocracy. Engaged in various state affairs alongside husband, contributing to the governance of the region. Had several children, furthering the family lineage within German nobility.
Continue ReadingKim Jong-dae
South Korean singer-songwriter and member of EXO
Born
September 21st, 1992 33 years ago
A South Korean singer-songwriter born in 1992 rose to fame as a member of the boy group EXO. The group debuted in 2012 under SM Entertainment and quickly gained popularity both domestically and internationally. In addition to group activities, solo projects included a successful solo album, with the title track showcasing vocal prowess. Collaborations with other artists and participation in soundtracks expanded the musical career. Noteworthy is the involvement in the project group SuperM, a collaboration with other prominent SM artists, which debuted in 2019.
Continue ReadingYainer Díaz
Professional baseball player, Houston Astros
Born
September 21st, 1998 27 years ago
A professional baseball player from the Dominican Republic, has played as a catcher and designated hitter. Made his Major League Baseball debut with the Houston Astros and contributed to the team's success in the American League. Played in the Minor Leagues before being called up to the majors, earning recognition for strong offensive skills and versatility in the lineup.
Continue ReadingNicole Richie
Actress and fashion designer, author
Born
September 21st, 1981 44 years ago
Born in 1981, this American actress gained popularity through the reality television series 'The Simple Life', which aired from 2003 to 2007. In addition to television, ventured into fashion and launched a successful clothing line called House of Harlow 1960. Authored multiple books, including a novel titled 'The Truth About Diamonds'. Additionally, appeared in various television series such as 'Candidly Nicole'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 23rd
Urban I
Pope of the Catholic Church
Died
May 23rd, 230 1795 years ago — None years old
Served as pope in the early 3rd century. Focused on spiritual leadership and consolidation of the Church's authority during a period of persecution. Advocated for Christian communities amid external challenges. Played a significant role in establishing early Church doctrine, promoting unity among believers.
Continue ReadingGéraud Duroc
French general and diplomat
Born
October 25th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1813 212 years ago — 40 years old
Served as a general in the French Revolutionary Wars and as a diplomat during the Napoleonic Wars. Held the title of Duke of Friuli and played a crucial role in the establishment of diplomatic relations between France and various European states. Participated in major campaigns, including the Austerlitz campaign and the Peninsular War. Took part in various treaties to negotiate peace and alliances. Duroc was a close confidant of Napoleon Bonaparte and served as his Grand Marshal of the Palace.
Continue ReadingIsmail I
First Emperor of Safavid Empire
Born
1487 539 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1524 501 years ago — 37 years old
Founded the Safavid Empire in Persia, establishing Shia Islam as the state religion. Reigned from 1501 until his death in 1524, expanding territory and centralizing power. Established cultural and religious practices that defined the empire, influencing Persian identity.
Continue ReadingAnne Meara
Actress and playwright, starred in 'The Odd Couple'
Born
September 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
This actress and playwright gained recognition for numerous roles across film and television. Meara appeared in the popular television series 'The Odd Couple' alongside her husband, playing the character of Muriel. She had a successful career in theater, co-founding the comedy duo Stiller and Meara with her husband, Jerry Stiller. The duo performed on a variety of platforms, including television and live shows. Meara also received critical acclaim for her work in film, with appearances in 'The King of Queens' and 'Annotation: An American Perspectives'. Her contributions spanned acting, writing, and performing, showcasing a wide range of talent throughout her career.
Continue ReadingJohn D. Rockefeller
Businessman, founder of Standard Oil
Born
July 8th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1937 88 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1839, this individual founded the Standard Oil Company in 1870, which revolutionized the petroleum industry and defined the structure of modern philanthropy. The company dominated the oil industry and was a pivotal player in the creation of the U.S. oil market. In addition to business pursuits, engaged in significant philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the University of Chicago and the Rockefeller Foundation. This individual significantly influenced the economic landscape of the United States and expanded the role of philanthropy in society.
Continue ReadingAugust Nilsson
Swedish pole vaulter and shot putter
Born
October 15th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1921 104 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1872, this athlete excelled in multiple sports including pole vaulting, shot put, and tug of war. Competed in the early 20th century and represented Sweden at international championships. Achieved recognition for outstanding performances in both individual and team events.
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