Henry II of Castile

Monarch and founder of the Trastámara dynasty

Henry II of Castile - Monarch and founder of the Trastámara dynasty
Born

1334
691 years ago

Died

May 29th, 1379
646 years ago — 45 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Spain

Links & References

Ascended to the throne as the King of Castile in 1366, establishing the Trastámara dynasty. His reign was marked by conflicts with rival factions, including the claimants to the throne from the House of León. Through military campaigns, annexed significant territories and consolidated power in the region. Fostered alliances through marriages, strengthening the political landscape of his kingdom. The reign ended with his death in 1379, after which his son succeeded him.

Founded the Trastámara dynasty in Castile

Engaged in wars against rival factions

Expanded territories of Castile

Other People Who Died on May 29th

Bahá'u'lláh

Persian religious leader, Baháʼí Faith founder
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1892 133 years ago — 75 years old

A Persian religious leader established the Baháʼí Faith in the 19th century. After the declaration of his mission in 1863, he advocated for the unity of humanity and promoted principles such as equality, peace, and justice. He faced significant opposition, leading to his exile from Persia and imprisonment in the Ottoman Empire. His writings, including the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, set forth the teachings and laws of the Baháʼí Faith. His efforts laid the foundation for a global religion, emphasizing the importance of oneness among people and the elimination of prejudice.

Continue Reading

Manuel Noriega

Panamanian general and military leader
Born
February 11th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old

A Panamanian general and politician, served as the de facto ruler of Panama from 1983 to 1989. Initially an ally of the United States, he later became a significant figure in drug trafficking and corruption. In December 1989, the United States invaded Panama in a military operation named Operation Just Cause, which resulted in Noriega's capture. He was subsequently extradited to the United States and tried on drug charges, eventually serving time in prison until his release in 2007.

Continue Reading

Doc Watson

American bluegrass musician and songwriter
Born
March 3rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1923, this American musician gained recognition for contributions to the bluegrass and folk music genres. Blind from a young age, proficiency on guitar and flatpicking technique showcased remarkable talent. Released albums such as 'Doc Watson' and 'Will the Circle Be Unbroken', collaborating with a range of artists including the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Emphasized traditional and contemporary pieces, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Tamara Toumanova

Ballet dancer and film actress
Born
March 2nd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1996 29 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1919, this Russian-American ballerina trained at the Imperial Ballet School before joining the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. She gained recognition for her exceptional grace and technique, performing leading roles in classical ballets such as 'Swan Lake' and 'The Firebird.' Transitioning to film, she appeared in several movies during the 1940s, showcasing her talents beyond ballet. Her artistic contributions spanned theatre and film, solidifying her position in the performing arts.

Continue Reading

Barry Goldwater

American politician and author
Born
January 2nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1998 27 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent U.S. politician and businessman, contributed significantly to the conservative movement in America. Served as a U.S. Senator from Arizona from 1953 to 1965 and as the Republican Party's nominee for President in 1964. His political career was marked by a strong emphasis on individual liberty, limited government, and a staunch anti-communist stance. Authored several books, including 'The Conscience of a Conservative', which became influential in the development of modern conservative thought. Goldwater's legacy includes a lasting impact on the Republican Party's direction in the subsequent decades.

Continue Reading

Mily Balakirev

Russian composer and pianist, founder of the Mighty Handful
Born
January 2nd, 1837 188 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1910 115 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in 19th-century Russian music, Balakirev dedicated efforts to promoting Russian classical music. He founded a collective of composers known as 'The Mighty Handful,' which aimed to create a distinctly Russian sound in classical music. As a pianist, he showcased his talents through performances and compositions that blended romanticism with folk elements. Balakirev's influential works include the symphonic poem 'Tamara' and the piano pieces 'Islamey' and 'Bard's Song.' His teachings and mentorship inspired future generations of Russian composers.

Continue Reading