Guy Fawkes

English conspirator and plot leader

Guy Fawkes - English conspirator and plot leader
Born

April 13th, 1570
455 years ago

Died

January 31st, 1606
419 years ago — 35 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

England

Links & References

An Englishman involved in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, Fawkes sought to assassinate King James I and blow up the House of Lords, aiming to restore a Catholic monarch to the throne. Fawkes was assigned to guard the explosives placed beneath Parliament. The plot was discovered on November 5, 1605, leading to his arrest and torture. Fawkes was tried and executed in January 1606. His actions have led to the annual observance of Bonfire Night in the UK, marking the failure of the plot and serving as a reminder of the event.

Leader of the Gunpowder Plot

Attempted assassination of King James I

Other People Born on April 13th

Robert Watson-Watt

Scottish engineer, radar inventor
Born
April 13th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1973 51 years ago — 81 years old

An engineer from Scotland developed the concept of radar in the 1930s, significantly advancing military technology. This invention played a critical role during World War II, especially in the Battle of Britain, providing air defense capabilities that were instrumental for the Royal Air Force. The work on radar continued to evolve after the war, influencing various fields such as aviation and meteorology. Watson-Watt's contributions to engineering and technology established foundational principles that are still in use today. Watson-Watt's legacy includes not just the invention of radar but also contributions to the understanding of radio waves and their practical applications.

Continue Reading

John Middendorf

American mountain climber and alpinist
Born
April 13th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1959, a prominent figure in American mountain climbing, especially recognized for climbing difficult peaks in the Rockies and the Himalayas. Participated in several notable expeditions, showcasing skills in rock and ice climbing. Played a significant role in the climbing community through mentorship and guiding. Contributed to outdoor education and environmental awareness.

Continue Reading

Rae Johnstone

Jockey and Melbourne Cup winner
Born
April 13th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1905, a prominent Australian jockey, achieved significant success in horse racing. Won the prestigious Melbourne Cup in 1939 aboard the horse 'Rainbird'. Made substantial contributions to the sport during the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Josh Reynolds

Rugby league player, played for Wests Tigers
Born
April 13th, 1989 36 years ago

A rugby league player, played primarily as a five-eighth and halfback. Played in the National Rugby League (NRL) from 2011 to 2022. Represented Australia in international competitions and played for the New South Wales State of Origin team. Had notable tenures with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and Wests Tigers. Contributed to his team's success in various campaigns, showcasing skills in playmaking and defense.

Continue Reading

Catherine de' Medici

Italian-French Queen, patron of the arts
Born
April 13th, 1519 506 years ago
Died
1589 436 years ago — 70 years old

Born into the powerful Medici family in Italy, played a crucial role as the queen consort of Henry II of France. Following her husband's death, served as regent for her sons, advocating for the Catholic cause amid the French Wars of Religion. Patronized the arts and was instrumental in the cultural transformation of France during the Renaissance. Established the legacy of French cuisine and introduced Italian culinary practices to the French court. Her political acumen and connections helped solidify the Medici influence in France.

Continue Reading

Howard Keel

Actor and singer in musical films
Born
April 13th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 7th, 2004 20 years ago — 85 years old

This individual gained prominence as a leading man in musical films during the 1950s. Featured in classic films such as 'Show Boat' and 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,' showcased a powerful baritone voice. Became a celebrated performer on Broadway, starring in productions like 'Oklahoma!' and 'Kiss Me, Kate.' Transitioned to television, earning a new generation of fans through the series 'Dallas.' His contributions to film and theater left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 31st

Yves Allégret

French film director and screenwriter
Born
October 13th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1987 38 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in French cinema, directed films during the 1940s to 1960s. Contributed significantly to the post-war film movement and was a key part of the French New Wave. Established a distinct style blending realism with narrative innovation. Collaborated with notable actors, creating works that explored complex human emotions and societal issues.

Continue Reading

Arthur Percival

English General and Singapore Defender
Born
December 26th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1966 59 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a British Army officer, particularly during World War II. Commanded the garrison in the defense of Singapore against Japanese forces in 1942. Surrendered to the Japanese, marking the largest capitulation in British military history. After the war, held various posts in the British military and contributed to post-war military planning. Authored accounts of military strategy and operations in his later years.

Continue Reading

Máedóc of Ferns

Irish bishop and saint of Ferns
Died
January 31st, 632 1393 years ago — None years old

Served as a bishop in the early medieval church in Ireland, contributing to the spread of Christianity. Established the church in Ferns, which became an important monastic site. Played a significant role in the development of early Irish ecclesiastical structures and practices. Coordination of the local clergy and promoting the Christian faith among the Gaelic nobility marked significant aspects of the tenure.

Continue Reading

John Bosco

Italian priest and educator, founder of the Salesians
Born
August 16th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1888 137 years ago — 72 years old

A priest and educator dedicated to the welfare of youth, established the Salesian Society to provide education and spiritual guidance. Focused on the disadvantaged, advocated for preventive education emphasizing reason, religion, and loving-kindness as a framework for teaching. Significant contributions to church and education, influencing modern pedagogical methods.

Continue Reading

Thomas Grey

English politician and Chancellor
Born
1654 371 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1720 305 years ago — 66 years old

Second Earl of Stamford served in various political roles during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Held the position of Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, overseeing land and finances of the Duchy, particularly during significant political events in England. Actively engaged in parliamentary proceedings and championed causes relevant to the governance of the time. Contributed to political discourse and policy implementation, influencing legislative decisions.

Continue Reading

Auguste Herbin

French painter and cubist artist
Born
April 29th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1960 65 years ago — 77 years old

Started an artistic career in the early 20th century, contributing to the development of Cubism alongside contemporaries like Braque and Picasso. Became associated with the abstract movement later in life, focusing on geometric shapes and the interplay of colors. Served as a member of various art groups, promoting modern art and teaching future generations of artists. Worked extensively in oil painting, producing numerous influential works during his lifetime. Participated in several exhibitions, both nationally and internationally, solidifying a legacy within the French art scene.

Continue Reading