Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba

Spanish general and politician, Governor of Milan

Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba - Spanish general and politician, Governor of Milan
Born

December 31st, 1585
439 years ago

Died

February 16th, 1645
380 years ago — 59 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Spain

Links & References

A significant military and political figure in Spanish history, served as the 24th Governor of the Duchy of Milan in the early 17th century. Played a crucial role in the military engagements of the Thirty Years' War and the Italian Wars. Demonstrated strong leadership in both military and governance, contributing to the stability of Spanish rule in Italy during a turbulent period. Oversaw various administrative reforms in the Duchy aimed at improving governance and economic conditions.

Led military campaigns during the Thirty Years' War

Served as the 24th Governor of the Duchy of Milan

Other People Born on December 31st

Jeremy Heywood

Economist and civil servant
Born
December 31st, 1961 63 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 57 years old

An English economist and civil servant, contributed significantly to the UK government. Served as the Head of the Civil Service and the Cabinet Secretary from 2012 until retirement in 2018. Worked in various capacities within the UK government since the 1980s, providing expertise in economic policy and administration. Involved in key government decisions and strategic planning.

Continue Reading

Simon Forman

English occultist and astrologer with writings
Born
December 31st, 1552 472 years ago
Died
1611 414 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1552, this individual became a significant figure in astrology and the occult during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Operating in London, practiced astrology and medicine, attracting a clientele that included notable figures. Authored works on astrology, including a well-known book documenting horoscopes and astrological predictions. Developed a reputation as a skilled medical practitioner, often combining medical advice with astrological insights. Forman's enthusiasm for the supernatural and uncanny left a lasting influence on both astrology and early modern medicine.

Continue Reading

Simon Wiesenthal

Nazi hunter and author of 'The Murderers Among Us'
Born
December 31st, 1908 116 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2005 19 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Ukraine, played a significant role in the post-World War II hunt for Nazi war criminals. Established the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, an organization dedicated to the memory of Holocaust victims and the pursuit of justice for crimes against humanity. Authored several books, including 'The Murderers Among Us', outlining his experiences and efforts in bringing perpetrators of the Holocaust to justice. Contributed to the identification and prosecution of numerous war criminals throughout Europe.

Continue Reading

Queen Kapiolani of Hawaii

Hawaiian monarch and cultural advocate
Born
December 31st, 1834 190 years ago
Died
1899 126 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1834, Kapiolani served as the queen consort of King David Kalakaua of Hawaii. She was a prominent figure in Hawaiian society and worked towards cultural preservation during a time of significant change. Kapiolani became well-known for promoting Hawaiian education and the arts. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Kapiolani Maternity Home, which provided healthcare for women and infants. Kapiolani's legacy included efforts in the revitalization of Hawaiian language and traditions amidst the influence of Western culture.

Continue Reading

Willye White

American long jumper and runner
Born
December 31st, 1939 85 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2007 18 years ago — 67 years old

Competed in the Olympics in both track and field events, achieving notable success as a long jumper. Participated in five different Olympic Games from 1956 to 1972, securing a silver medal in long jump in 1964. Raced in various national and international competitions, earning recognition for athletic prowess and skill. Contributed to the development of future generations of athletes through coaching.

Continue Reading

Jesse Carlson

American baseball player, MLB pitcher
Born
December 31st, 1980 44 years ago

A professional baseball player, established a career primarily as a pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB). Played for the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Mets during the 2008 and 2009 seasons. Appeared in 66 MLB games, showcasing talent in both starting and relief roles. Contributed to team efforts in regular season games as well as in high-pressure situations.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 16th

Bruno Ganz

Swiss actor known for 'Downfall'
Born
March 22nd, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 77 years old

An acclaimed Swiss actor with a career spanning over five decades, widely recognized for roles in German and international cinema. Gained significant attention for portraying Adolf Hitler in the film 'Downfall' which depicted the final days of the Third Reich. Worked with esteemed directors including Wim Wenders and Eric Rohmer, contributing to notable films such as 'Wings of Desire' and 'The American Friend'. Aside from film, contributed to theatre, particularly in productions of classic plays. Earned accolades for performances that showcased a deep understanding of complex characters and themes.

Continue Reading

Rupert I

Elector Palatine of the Rhine
Born
1309 716 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1390 635 years ago — 81 years old

Rupert I served as Elector Palatine from 1385 until his death in 1390. He was a member of the House of Wittelsbach and played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire. His reign was marked by territorial expansion and the establishment of the Palatine holdings in the region. As a ruler, he focused on strengthening the influence of the Palatinate and consolidating power among the nobility. Rupert was deeply involved in the military and political struggles of his time, navigating the complex alliances and rivalries that characterized late medieval Germany.

Continue Reading

Lesley Gore

Singer-songwriter with hit 'It's My Party'
Born
May 2nd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 68 years old

An American singer-songwriter rose to fame in the 1960s with the release of the iconic song 'It's My Party'. The hit single topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1963, showcasing a blend of pop and dramatic storytelling. Achieved considerable success throughout the decade with other popular tracks like 'Judy's Turn to Cry' and 'You Don't Own Me', which became an anthem for female empowerment. Beyond music, contributed to film and television, including writing songs for the television series 'The L Word'. Continued to perform and promote her music until the mid-2010s, solidifying a legacy in pop music history.

Continue Reading

John V Palaiologos

Byzantine Emperor during decline
Born
June 18th, 1332 693 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1391 634 years ago — 58 years old

Ruled as Byzantine emperor from 1341 to 1376 and again from 1379 until death in 1391. Ascended to the throne as a minor, leading to regencies and internal conflicts. His reign was marked by the increasing territorial losses of the Byzantine Empire to the Ottomans and internal strife from the Palaiologos dynasty. Managed to restore some degree of stability in the later years but faced the ongoing decline of imperial power. Further alliances were sought with the West to garner military support against advancing enemies, including a notable appeal for aid from the Catholic Church.

Continue Reading

Michael Shea

American author of fantasy novels
Born
July 3rd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 67 years old

An American author focused on fantasy literature, achieved recognition for works that blend mythology and contemporary themes. Contributed significantly to the field of speculative fiction through novels and short stories. Published acclaimed titles such as 'Nefertiti's Heart' and 'The Incomplete Enchanter.' Also edited various anthologies showcasing the genre's breadth. Engaged with literary circles through discussions and collaborations, further shaping the fantasy landscape.

Continue Reading

Smiley Burnette

Singer-songwriter and actor in Western films
Born
March 18th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1967 58 years ago — 55 years old

A singer-songwriter and actor became famous for performances in Western films during the 1930s and 1940s. Collaborated with Gene Autry and featured in numerous films, contributing to the popularity of cowboy music. Often portrayed comic relief characters, showcasing musical talents alongside acting skills. Worked extensively in television, appearing in his own series.

Continue Reading