Gojong of Korea

Emperor of Korea, Joseon Dynasty

Gojong of Korea - Emperor of Korea, Joseon Dynasty
Born

September 8th, 1852
172 years ago

Died

January 21st, 1919
106 years ago — 66 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

South Korea

Links & References

Ruled as the 26th Emperor of the Joseon Kingdom and became the first Emperor of Korea. Gojong declared the establishment of the Korean Empire in 1897, marking a significant shift in Korean sovereignty. His reign was characterized by efforts to modernize Korea, alongside navigating complex geopolitical tensions in East Asia. Gojong faced challenges from Japan and other foreign powers during a tumultuous period in Korean history. The emperor sought to strengthen the military and promote economic development to preserve the nation's independence.

Proclaimed Korea as an empire in 1897

Oversaw modernization efforts during reign

Faced Japanese aggression and imperialism

Other People Born on September 8th

Siegfried Sassoon

English poet and World War I captain
Born
September 8th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1967 57 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1886, a captain in the British Army during World War I, contributed significantly to war poetry. Published several collections reflecting the horrors of warfare. Later became a journalist and wrote about social issues and the changing British society. His literary work gained recognition for its emotional depth and anti-war sentiments.

Continue Reading

Carl Stenborg

Swedish opera singer and director
Born
September 8th, 1752 272 years ago
Died
1813 212 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1752, he emerged as a prominent figure in the Swedish opera scene during the 18th century. Initially trained in music, engagement with opera led to a successful career as both a singer and director. The foundation of opera in Sweden saw contributions through performances and direction, enhancing the art form's status. Significant engagements with various opera houses marked a versatile and impactful professional trajectory. Additionally, contributed to the development of theatrical productions, merging singing and acting skills. His work left a lasting influence on later generations of performers.

Continue Reading

Charles J. Guiteau

Assassin of President James A. Garfield
Born
September 8th, 1841 183 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1882 143 years ago — 40 years old

Guiteau was an American lawyer and preacher who assassinated President James A. Garfield in 1881. Motivated by a belief that he played a crucial role in Garfield's election, Guiteau shot the president at a train station in Washington, D.C. Following the assassination, he was arrested and tried for murder. His trial became a highly publicized event, drawing significant media attention. Guiteau was found guilty and sentenced to death, ultimately being executed by hanging in 1882.

Continue Reading

Charles Martel of Anjou

French noble and military leader
Born
September 8th, 1271 753 years ago
Died
1295 730 years ago — 24 years old

Born in 1271, a member of the House of Anjou, an influential noble in France. Served as the Count of Anjou and Maine, and held the title of Duke of Anjou. Played a significant role in the political and military affairs of the French kingdom during the late medieval period. Engaged in various campaigns and conflicts to expand territorial control and strengthen the influence of the Anjou dynasty. His leadership contributed to several notable events in the region.

Continue Reading

Sjeng Schalken

Dutch tennis player and Wimbledon quarterfinalist
Born
September 8th, 1976 48 years ago

Competed professionally in tennis from the mid-1990s to the late 2000s. Reached the quarterfinals of Wimbledon in 2004. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 9 in 2003. Represented the Netherlands in multiple Davis Cup ties.

Continue Reading

Anne Catherine Emmerich

German nun and mystic with visions
Born
September 8th, 1774 250 years ago
Died
1824 201 years ago — 50 years old

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, a German nun and mystic experienced a series of profound visions and mystical experiences that were documented extensively. These visions included detailed accounts of the life of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary, which attracted attention from both the devout and those interested in religious mysticism. Various writings based on these accounts were published posthumously, leading to her recognition as a significant figure in Catholic spirituality. Canonization efforts began over a century later, highlighting her influence within religious circles.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 21st

Yemelyan Pugachev

Russian rebel leader of 1773-1774 uprising
Born
1742 283 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1775 250 years ago — 33 years old

Led a major uprising against the Russian monarchy from 1773 to 1775. Started the rebellion claiming to be the deceased Tsar Peter III. Gained the support of peasants and Cossacks, establishing an extensive, albeit short-lived, control over parts of Russia. The rebellion was marked by several key battles and the capture of the city of Kazan. Eventually defeated by government forces, he was captured in 1775 and executed.

Continue Reading

Anthony Ashley Cooper

Chancellor of the Exchequer, 1st Earl of Shaftesbury
Born
July 22nd, 1621 404 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1683 342 years ago — 61 years old

Served as a prominent English politician and was a leading figure during the Restoration period. Became the first Earl of Shaftesbury, playing a pivotal role in the development of the Whig party. Held the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer, where oversaw economic policies and financial management of the kingdom. Advocated for religious tolerance and civil liberties, contributing to early political thought.

Continue Reading

Alexander Herzen

Russian philosopher and author of 'My Past and Thoughts'
Born
April 6th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1870 155 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent Russian philosopher and author, contributed significantly to the intellectual discourse of the 19th century. Advocated for social reforms during a time of political repression in Russia. Authored 'My Past and Thoughts', a seminal work reflecting on personal experiences and political ideas. Emigrated to France and became involved with Russian revolutionary movements, gaining a reputation as a leading voice for reform and modernization in Russia. Established the publishing house 'Kolokol' (The Bell), which circulated revolutionary ideas among Russians.

Continue Reading

Charlie Gehringer

Baseball player and manager
Born
May 11th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1993 32 years ago — 89 years old

An American baseball player and manager, this individual played for the Detroit Tigers from 1924 to 1942. Recognized as a skilled second baseman, he was a key member of the Tigers team that won the World Series in 1945. In addition to his playing career, he served as the team's manager in the mid-1950s. His contributions to baseball earned him induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1949. Gehringer's proficiency at the plate led to a career batting average of .320 and he established several records during his tenure.

Continue Reading

Archie Hahn

Runner and coach; Olympic gold medalist
Born
September 14th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1955 70 years ago — 74 years old

This individual was a prominent runner and coach in the early 20th century. Competed in the 1904 Summer Olympics, winning three gold medals in the 60 meters, 100 meters, and 200 meters events. Represented the United States in international competitions and contributed to the training of future athletes. Later served as a coach at various levels, influencing many in the sport of track and field.

Continue Reading

Samuel Wallis

Navigator and explorer of the Pacific
Born
1728 297 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1795 230 years ago — 67 years old

An English navigator and explorer, significant contributions included voyages across the Pacific Ocean in the 18th century. Wallis made the first recorded European sighting of Tahiti in 1767 during his journey on the Dolphin. His expeditions contributed to European knowledge of the Pacific Islands and laid the groundwork for subsequent explorations. He also recorded new territories and interacted with indigenous populations, enhancing the understanding of the region's geography and cultures.

Continue Reading