Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre
French botanist and author of Paul et Virginie
Born
1737
288 years ago
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
France
Links & References
A prominent French botanist and author, he contributed significantly to literature and botany in the 18th century. His most notable work, 'Paul et Virginie', published in 1788, is a romantic novel that explores themes of nature and love set on the island of Mauritius. This work combined literary artistry with botanical description, reflecting the author's deep appreciation for nature. As a member of the French Academy, he engaged with contemporary debates on natural philosophy and environmental conservation. His observations and writings were influential in shaping French literature and botanical science during this period.
Wrote 'Paul et Virginie'
Contributed to botanical science
Member of the French Academy
Other People Who Died on January 21st
Gojong of Korea
Emperor of Korea, Joseon Dynasty
Born
September 8th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1919 106 years ago — 66 years old
Ruled as the 26th Emperor of the Joseon Kingdom and became the first Emperor of Korea. Gojong declared the establishment of the Korean Empire in 1897, marking a significant shift in Korean sovereignty. His reign was characterized by efforts to modernize Korea, alongside navigating complex geopolitical tensions in East Asia. Gojong faced challenges from Japan and other foreign powers during a tumultuous period in Korean history. The emperor sought to strengthen the military and promote economic development to preserve the nation's independence.
Continue ReadingSusan Strasberg
American actress and film star
Born
May 22nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 60 years old
Acclaimed American actress, gained prominence in the late 1950s and 1960s. Rose to fame with the lead role in the film adaptation of 'The Diary of Anne Frank.' Also starred in other significant works including 'The Country Girl' and 'The Manchurian Candidate.' Contributed to the acting community as an instructor at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, bridging generational gaps in performance skills. Involved in various stage productions, including off-Broadway plays. Her career spanned several decades until her passing in 1999.
Continue ReadingRash Behari Bose
Indian soldier and independence activist
Born
May 25th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1945 80 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1886, contributed significantly to India's struggle for independence from British rule. Involved in revolutionary activities and organized resistance against colonial authority. Played a key role in the Ghadar Movement and later led the Indian National Army in its efforts to secure freedom. His activism inspired many and helped galvanize support for the independence movement.
Continue ReadingJoseph Justus Scaliger
Historian and scholar of the Renaissance
Born
August 5th, 1540 485 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1609 416 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent historian and scholar during the Renaissance, focused on chronology and history. Contributed to the understanding of ancient texts and historical methods. Developed the concept of a universal chronological system, which laid the foundation for modern historical studies. His extensive work on the history of the Roman Empire and the chronology of ancient nations established him as a pivotal figure in the field. Wrote multiple influential texts that were central to the study of history and science, influencing subsequent historians and scholars.
Continue ReadingIbrahim Rugova
Kosovo politician, 1st President
Born
December 2nd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2006 19 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the first President of Kosovo from 2002 until his death in 2006. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Kosovo during the 1990s, advocating for non-violent resistance against Serbian rule. Led the Democratic League of Kosovo, which emerged as a dominant political party after the 1999 conflict. Engaged in international diplomacy to gain recognition for Kosovo's independence.
Continue ReadingVladimir Lenin
Russian revolutionary and political leader
Born
April 22nd, 1870 155 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1924 101 years ago — 53 years old
This individual was a Russian lawyer and politician who played a pivotal role in the establishment of Soviet power following the Russian Revolution of 1917. He served as the leader of the Bolshevik Party and later as head of government of Soviet Russia and the Soviet Union. After leading the October Revolution, he implemented policies that laid the foundation for the Soviet state, including the nationalization of industry and land redistribution. His writings on Marxism and political theory influenced many around the world and continue to be studied today.
Continue Reading