Itō Hirobumi
Japanese politician, 1st Prime Minister

Born
October 16th, 1841
183 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1909
115 years ago — 68 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Japan
Links & References
A prominent Japanese lawyer and politician, served as the first Prime Minister of Japan. Played a key role in the Meiji Restoration, focusing on modernization and Westernization of Japan. Contributed to the drafting of the Meiji Constitution and promoted political reforms. Held the position of Prime Minister multiple times during crucial periods of Japan's development.
Served as the first Prime Minister of Japan
Drafted the Meiji Constitution
Promoted modernization and Westernization
Other People Born on October 16th
Nicky Adams
Started professional career at a young age with a breakthrough stint at Port Vale. Played for several clubs including Bury, and Crawley Town, contributing significantly in midfield roles. Achieved notable success with teams in League One and League Two, recognized for contributions in promotion campaigns and playoff appearances. Retired from professional football after a career spanning over a decade, valued for experience and versatility.
Continue ReadingJohn Whittingdale
A prominent English politician, served as a Member of Parliament since 1992. Held multiple ministerial positions, including Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport from 2015 to 2016. Played a significant role in shaping policies related to culture, media, and sports in the UK. Instrumental in overseeing the BBC's charter and funding mechanisms during tenure in office. Engaged in various parliamentary committees and supported initiatives on digital communications and broadcasting.
Continue ReadingRoger Hawkins
A prominent session drummer, contributed extensively to the Muscle Shoals sound during the 1960s and 1970s. Played on numerous hit tracks for various artists, including Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, and The Rolling Stones. Known for a distinctive drumming style that greatly influenced the southern rock genre. Collaborated with the famed Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, recording on many albums that defined the era.
Continue ReadingSamad bey Mehmandarov
Served as the 3rd Minister of Defense of Azerbaijan from 1918 to 1920. Contributed to the establishment of the Azerbaijani military forces following the declaration of independence. Played a significant role during the territorial conflicts involving Azerbaijan, particularly in the conflict with Armenia. Engaged in military and political activities in both Azerbaijan and Russia, influencing the course of military strategies in the region during a tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingGünter Grass
A prominent figure in German literature, created significant works that explored the social and political issues of post-World War II Germany. The Tin Drum, published in 1959, gained international acclaim and won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1999. Grass's writing often combined elements of fiction and autobiography, illustrating the complexities of German identity. Additionally, he engaged in political activism throughout his life, adding a public voice to his literary endeavors. His contributions spanned multiple genres, including poetry and plays, further establishing his legacy in the arts.
Continue ReadingKieran Doherty
Born in 1955, an Irish Republican hunger striker and politician. Active in the struggle for Irish independence, participated in the 1981 hunger strike to protest against the treatment of political prisoners in Northern Ireland. Elected as a Member of Parliament for Fermanagh and South Tyrone in 1981 while on hunger strike, representing the Nationalist community's vote in a time of significant political tension.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 26th
Jacques Massu
A French general gained prominence during the Algerian War of Independence. Commanded paratroopers known for their decisive actions in major battles, particularly in the Battle of Algiers, which showcased unconventional warfare strategies. After the war, played influential roles in the French military and politics, advocating for modernization and integration of military structures. Served as a military advisor during the French intervention in the Suez Crisis. Retired from active duty with the rank of general and became a prominent figure in French defense discussions.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Nazzaro
Served as a bishop in the Syriac Orthodox Church and contributed significantly to theological scholarship. Focused on issues concerning faith, moral guidance, and church leadership in a multicultural context. Wrote extensively on theological topics and was active in church governance. Engaged with both the Italian and Syrian communities, seeking to bridge cultural and religious differences.
Continue ReadingWilliam Temple
Temple served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1942 until death in 1944. Significant contributions included work in social ethics and education. A vigorous advocate for Christian social responsibility, played a crucial role in shaping the post-war Church. Authored numerous theological texts, which influenced both religious thought and public policy. His dedication to social justice led to the establishment of the National Society for the Promotion of Religious Education.
Continue ReadingCharles Comiskey
Played as a first baseman and later managed several teams in Major League Baseball. Most notably, managed the Chicago White Sox and led the team to a World Series victory in 1906. Comiskey was instrumental in the establishment of the American League and the development of early baseball strategies.
Continue ReadingDoug Ireland
A journalist focused on political and social issues, contributed to various publications including The Village Voice, which provided significant commentary on LGBTQ+ rights and other pressing matters. Engaged in activism for human rights and freedom of expression throughout his career. Investigated and reported on international political situations, drawing attention to underreported crises.
Continue ReadingJohn Graves Simcoe
Served as a British Army general and politician, holding the position of the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada from 1791 to 1796. Pioneered the establishment of the legislative and judicial systems in the region. Advocated for the abolition of slavery in Upper Canada, leading to the passage of the Act Against Slavery in 1793. Initiated the development of infrastructure, including roads and settlements, that facilitated growth in the province. Contributed to military efforts in the American Revolutionary War and worked to secure Canadian territories for the British.
Continue Reading