Henry II of Navarre
King of Navarre, notable for wars
Ruled as King of Navarre from 1547 until 1555. Under his reign, faced significant challenges including conflicts related to the Protestant Reformation. Supported the Huguenots in France, aligning Navarre's political stance with Protestant interests. Strategically navigated complex political alliances during the Wars of Religion in France. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen Navarre's defenses and consolidate authority amid external threats.
Served as King of Navarre
Supported Huguenots during French Wars of Religion
Other People Born on April 18th
Dhondo Keshav Karve
Indian women's education activist
Born
April 18th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1962 63 years ago — 104 years old
Pioneered women's education and founded the first women's university in India. Established the Widows' Home in Pune, which aimed to provide education and vocational training to widows. Advocated for women's rights and social reform throughout his life, working tirelessly to improve the status of women in society. Contributed significantly to the social reform movement in Maharashtra, promoting education and empowerment for women.
Continue ReadingGabriel Axel
Danish actor, director of Babette's Feast
Born
April 18th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in Danish cinema, contributed significantly as an actor, director, and producer. Directed the film 'Babette's Feast', which won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1988. The film is celebrated for its rich storytelling and deep thematic elements. Also acted in various Danish films and television series, establishing a notable presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingVanessa Kirby
English actress, acclaimed for 'The Crown'
Born
April 18th, 1988 37 years ago
Born in 1988, this actress gained recognition for portraying Princess Margaret in the Netflix series 'The Crown'. Additional notable performances include roles in the 'Mission: Impossible' franchise and the film 'Pieces of a Woman', which received critical acclaim. Kirby's work in theater also includes acclaimed performances in 'A Streetcar Named Desire' and 'The Winter's Tale'. In 2020, she won the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival for her role in 'Pieces of a Woman'.
Continue ReadingWilliam Debenham
Founder of Debenhams department store
Born
April 18th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1863 162 years ago — 69 years old
Established a retail business in 1778 that eventually evolved into the department store chain Debenhams. Expanded operations and opened multiple locations throughout England. The business became well-recognized for its wide range of goods and innovative approach to retailing.
Continue ReadingGrigory Sokolov
Pianist acclaimed for classical performances
Born
April 18th, 1950 75 years ago
Born in 1950, this Russian pianist and composer gained recognition for exceptional performances of classical repertoire. Early training included studies at the Leningrad Conservatory, which fostered a profound understanding of music. Competitions such as the International Tchaikovsky Competition in 1966, where first prize was awarded, showcased remarkable talent. Over the decades, extensive international touring occurred, with multiple concerts at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall and the Vienna Musikverein. Recordings of works by Chopin, Beethoven, and Rachmaninoff further contributed to reputation as one of the leading pianists of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Continue ReadingFranz von Suppé
Austrian composer of operettas
Born
April 18th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1895 130 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1819, this composer and conductor became prominent in the genre of operetta in the 19th century. Suppé's work included both original compositions and orchestral arrangements. The famous 'Light Cavalry Overture' and 'Boccaccio' remain significant in the operetta repertoire. His music is characterized by lively melodies and vibrant orchestration, showcasing the comic and romantic elements of the operetta form. They enjoyed performances across Europe during the height of their popularity. Suppé's contributions to operetta left a lasting legacy, influencing future composers in the genre.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 25th
Albert S. Ruddy
Film producer known for The Godfather
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2024 1 years ago — 94 years old
A Canadian film producer gained recognition for producing the iconic film 'The Godfather' in 1972, which won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture. His career in the film industry spanned several decades, with involvement in various successful projects. Ruddy also produced 'The Godfather Part II' and was engaged in television production, contributing to series including 'The Associates' and 'Walker, Texas Ranger'. Awards and honors throughout his career reflected his significant contributions to film and television.
Continue ReadingUładzimir Katkoŭski
Belarusian blogger and web designer
Born
1976 49 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2007 18 years ago — 31 years old
Contributed significantly to the Belarusian internet community as a blogger and web designer. Focused on promoting free expression and information accessibility through various digital platforms. Actively engaged in political discourse through online content. Passed away in 2007, leaving a legacy of advocacy for internet freedom in Belarus.
Continue ReadingRichard M. Sherman
Composer of Disney classics
Born
June 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2024 1 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent composer and director, contributed significantly to the world of musical theatre and film music. Collaborated with his brother, Robert B. Sherman, to create memorable songs for Disney classics. Songs featured in films such as 'Mary Poppins,' 'The Jungle Book,' and 'The Aristocats.' Received numerous awards throughout career, including Academy Awards and Grammy Awards.
Continue ReadingRobert Capa
Photographer and war correspondent
Born
October 22nd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1954 71 years ago — 40 years old
Born in Hungary, became a significant photographer and journalist, particularly recognized for war photography. Co-founded Magnum Photos, the first cooperative agency for photographers. Chronicled major conflicts including the Spanish Civil War, World War II, and the First Indo-China War. Notable for his ability to capture tense moments in battle and the human experience of war. His iconic photograph, 'The Falling Soldier,' remains one of the most recognized images of the Spanish Civil War, exemplifying the chaos and heroism of conflict. Capa's work remains influential in modern photojournalism and war reporting.
Continue ReadingHaakon Lie
Norwegian lawyer and politician
Born
September 22nd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2009 16 years ago — 103 years old
A significant figure in Norwegian politics, this individual served as the Secretary General of the Labour Party from 1945 to 1965. Influenced by the post-war political climate, played a crucial role in shaping Norway's welfare state. Contributed to the establishment of key policies and reforms aligning with the Labour Party's vision. Alongside political career, engaged in various community and international initiatives.
Continue ReadingYevgenia Ginzburg
Russian author and Gulag survivor
Born
December 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1977 48 years ago — 72 years old
An author renowned for writings about the Soviet regime, particularly the experiences in the Gulag system. The memoir "Journey into the Whirlwind" details personal experiences of arrest, imprisonment, and life in the labor camps. Ginzburg’s literary works reflect on totalitarianism and the importance of personal freedom. She continued to write following her release, contributing to Soviet literature and illuminating the struggles faced by those in the Soviet Union.
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