Imperia Cognati
Italian courtesan and influential figure
Born
Died
1512
514 years ago — 26 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Italy
Links & References
Born in 1486, a famous Italian courtesan, Imperia Cognati became a prominent figure in Renaissance society. She was noteworthy for her beauty, intelligence, and wit, attracting influential patrons. Her life was marked by relationships with powerful men, including politicians and artists, which gave her access to the elite circles of her time. Cognati operated a salon in Rome that became a hub for intellectual and artistic exchange. Her legacy also includes being depicted in works of art and literature, as her personality and lifestyle inspired various narratives within Renaissance culture.
Operated a prominent salon in Rome
Had relationships with notable patrons and artists
Featured in Renaissance art and literature
Other People Born on August 3rd
Harry Heilmann
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
August 3rd, 1894 131 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1951 74 years ago — 56 years old
Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder and first baseman primarily for the Detroit Tigers from 1914 to 1932. Achieved a batting average of .342 over his career and was a part of the Tigers' 1935 World Series championship team. Transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting after retirement, contributing insights to various baseball programs.
Continue ReadingRoland Burris
Attorney General of Illinois
Born
August 3rd, 1937 88 years ago
Served as the 39th Attorney General of Illinois from 1991 to 1995. Prior to that, held multiple positions in the state government, including Chairman of the Illinois State Lottery. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 2008, becoming the first African American senator from Illinois. His term in the Senate lasted until January 2010. In addition to practicing law, engaged in various community service initiatives.
Continue ReadingJoseph Paxton
Gardener and architect, designed The Crystal Palace
Born
August 3rd, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1865 161 years ago — 62 years old
An English gardener and architect, best known for designing The Crystal Palace, a massive glass and iron structure built for the 1851 Great Exhibition in London. This innovative design showcased the potential of industrial materials and construction techniques. Paxton's background as a gardener informed his approach to integrating natural elements within architectural spaces. His work on The Crystal Palace set a precedent for future architectural projects and influenced the design of similar structures worldwide. Beyond The Crystal Palace, also served as a Member of Parliament, demonstrating a commitment to public service and civic engagement. His contributions have had lasting significance within the fields of architecture and horticulture.
Continue ReadingVernon Louis Parrington
Historian and scholar, authored 'Main Currents'
Born
August 3rd, 1871 154 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1929 96 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent American historian and scholar in the early 20th century, focused on American literature and cultural history. Parrington's major work, 'Main Currents in American Thought', critically examined the evolution of American ideas and values from colonial times to the early 20th century. This seminal text contributed significantly to the fields of history and literary criticism by presenting a comprehensive narrative of America's intellectual development. Additionally, Parrington served as a professor at the University of Washington, influencing many students and future scholars of American studies. His scholarship combined literary analysis with historical context, highlighting the interplay between literature and societal issues.
Continue ReadingKonstantin Melnikov
Russian architect, designed Rusakov Club
Born
August 3rd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1974 52 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1890, an architect contributed significantly to Soviet architecture. Gained recognition for innovative designs characterized by geometric forms and functionality. Designed the Rusakov Workers' Club in Moscow, showcasing a distinctive use of space and light. Experimented with various materials and methods, influencing later architectural styles. Engaged in theoretical work, promoting the functionalist approach to architecture and modernism in the Soviet context.
Continue ReadingRod Beck
American baseball pitcher, 1999 All-Star
Born
August 3rd, 1968 57 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 2007 18 years ago — 38 years old
A professional baseball pitcher achieved success in Major League Baseball (MLB) during the 1990s and early 2000s. Played primarily for the San Francisco Giants and the Chicago Cubs, showcasing a powerful right arm. Notable for a distinguished career as a closer, featuring a unique delivery style and an imposing presence on the mound. Selected as an All-Star in 1999, contributing to teams with significant saves and strikeouts. Ended a notable career having played for several teams including the San Diego Padres and the Boston Red Sox.
Continue Reading