Guillaume de Sonnac

Grand Master of the Knights Templar

Guillaume de Sonnac - Grand Master of the Knights Templar
Born

None
None years ago

Died

April 6th, 1250
775 years ago — None years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

France

Links & References

Served as the Grand Master of the Knights Templar during a critical period in the 13th century. Leadership occurred amidst the decline of Templar influence in the Holy Land. Oversaw the Templars' military and financial operations, contributing to the order's defense efforts during the Crusades. Commanded forces in key battles and was involved in negotiation efforts with various states. His tenure ended with his death in 1250, marking a significant point in Templar history.

Led the Knights Templar during the Crusades

Oversaw military operations in the Holy Land

Other People Who Died on April 6th

Matthias Corvinus

Hungarian king with a strong rule
Born
February 23rd, 1443 582 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1490 535 years ago — 47 years old

Reigned as King of Hungary from 1458 to 1490. Led military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire and strengthened the kingdom's defenses. Established a well-rounded court in Buda and promoted culture, including founding the library known as the Bibliotheca Corviniana, one of the largest Renaissance libraries in Europe. Implemented reforms to improve governance and taxation, enhancing royal authority.

Continue Reading

Wilma Mankiller

Tribal leader and author
Born
November 18th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2010 15 years ago — 64 years old

Played a key role as the first female principal chief of the Cherokee Nation from 1985 to 1995. Focused on self-determination and economic development for Native American people. Authored the book 'Mankiller: A Chief and Her People', which detailed the challenges and successes of Indigenous people in contemporary society. Worked to address issues of race and gender through leadership and advocacy.

Continue Reading

Babatunde Olatunji

Drummer and educator, African music advocate
Born
April 7th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2003 22 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Nigeria, a renowned drummer and educator contributed to the global appreciation of African music. Olatunji emigrated to the United States where he studied at the Agricultural and Mechanical College. He gained recognition for his performance and fusion of traditional African drumming styles with contemporary music. As an educator, he taught at various institutions, emphasizing the significance of cultural heritage. Olatunji founded the Drum Circle, promoting communal rhythm playing and cross-cultural understanding through music. His album "Drums of Passion" became pivotal in popularizing African rhythms in Western music schools and among audiences.

Continue Reading

Willem Marinus Dudok

Dutch architect, city planner
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1974 51 years ago — 90 years old

An architect and city planner, significant contributions included the design of the Hilversum Town Hall, celebrated for its modernist style. Emphasized the integration of architecture within the context of the environment. Produced numerous residential buildings and public spaces that showcased functionalism and innovative use of materials. Played a crucial role in shaping the architectural landscape in the Netherlands during the early to mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Massimo Tamburini

Italian motorcycle designer and co-founder
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 71 years old

Massimo Tamburini was an Italian motorcycle designer instrumental in shaping modern motorcycle aesthetics and performance. In 1973, co-founded Bimota, a company renowned for its innovative designs that combined advanced engineering with Italian styling. Tamburini played a critical role in creating iconic motorcycle models, including the Bimota SB6 and the Ducati 916. The Ducati 916, released in 1994, is considered one of the most beautiful motorcycles ever made and won numerous awards for its design and performance. Tamburini's work not only influenced motorcycle design but also established Bimota as a significant player in the motorcycle industry until his passing in 2014.

Continue Reading

Fang Lizhi

Astrophysicist and Chinese academic
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2012 13 years ago — 76 years old

An astrophysicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics, particularly in the studies concerning solar dynamics and the conditions of the universe. Served as a professor at the University of Science and Technology of China. Played an important role in the pro-democracy movement in China, advocating for political reform during the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989. After the crackdown, sought asylum in the United States and continued to engage in academic pursuits while critiquing the Chinese government's policies.

Continue Reading