Infanta Isabella of Portugal
Queen of Castile and León
Born
1428
597 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Spain
Links & References
Born in Portugal, she became the queen consort of Castile and León through marriage. Her union with Ferdinand II of Aragon led to the unification of Spain. This important political alliance facilitated significant achievements, including the completion of the Reconquista with the capture of Granada in 1492. The couple's reign is marked by important explorations, notably the sponsorship of Christopher Columbus's 1492 expedition, which resulted in the discovery of the Americas. Additionally, her rule influenced the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition, shaping the religious landscape of Spain.
Queen consort of Castile and León
Completion of the Reconquista in 1492
Sponsorship of Christopher Columbus's expedition
Other People Who Died on August 15th
Paul Lukas
Hungarian-American actor and singer
Born
May 26th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1971 54 years ago — 76 years old
Starting a career in Hungary, gained prominence in the United States after migrating in the 1920s. Appeared in many films during the 1930s and 1940s. Won an Academy Award for Best Actor for the role in 'Watch on the Rhine' in 1943. Excelled in both dramatic and musical performances throughout his career, showcasing versatile talent in various stage productions.
Continue ReadingJosé María Coppinger
Governor of Spanish East Florida
Born
April 5th, 1773 252 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1844 181 years ago — 71 years old
Served as governor of Spanish East Florida from 1815 to 1821 during a period marked by political tensions in the region. Oversaw various governmental matters and interactions with local Native American tribes. His tenure included managing relations with British colonial interests and American settlers seeking land and opportunities within the territory. Coppinger worked to maintain Spanish authority amidst growing pressures that would ultimately influence the area's transition to U.S. control.
Continue ReadingErnie Bushmiller
Cartoonist of Nancy comic strip
Born
August 23rd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1982 43 years ago — 76 years old
Bushmiller created the comic strip Nancy, which debuted in 1938. The strip featured the adventures of a young girl named Nancy and her friend Sluggo. The simplicity of the characters and humor appealed to a wide audience. Bushmiller's distinctive art style and storytelling defined the strip's success for decades. Nancy became a staple in American newspapers, being published for over 70 years. Bushmiller's work influenced other cartoonists and contributed to the evolution of comic strips as an art form.
Continue ReadingTe Atairangikaahu
Māori queen and leader
Born
July 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2006 19 years ago — 75 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1966 as the first queen of the Māori people in New Zealand. Te Atairangikaahu served as a cultural ambassador, promoting Māori language and traditions. Under her reign, the Māori people gained greater visibility in New Zealand society. Actively involved in various community initiatives, the queen worked to address social issues affecting the Māori population.
Continue ReadingThrasyvoulos Tsakalotos
Greek general and military leader
Born
April 3rd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1989 36 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1897, played a significant role as a general during the Greek Civil War. Commanded the Greek army forces in various operations against communist insurgents. Contributed to military strategy and leadership in key battles. After the civil war, held prominent political positions, including Minister of National Defence, influencing military policy and governance in Greece.
Continue ReadingJohann Adam Schall von Bell
German missionary and astronomer
Born
May 1st, 1591 434 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1666 359 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1591, this figure served as a missionary in China and made significant contributions to astronomy. He introduced Western scientific knowledge to Chinese scholars and established observatories. His work facilitated the translation of astronomical works and the improvement of calendars in the region. In addition to his missionary work, he played a pivotal role in teaching mathematics and astronomy in China, influencing the adoption of Western techniques in cosmology.
Continue Reading