Jadwiga of Lithuania

Polish monarch and queen regnant

Jadwiga of Lithuania - Polish monarch and queen regnant
Born

April 8th, 1408
617 years ago

Died

1431
594 years ago — 23 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Poland

Links & References

Ascended the throne of Poland in 1384 as a young monarch. Played a pivotal role in the Polish-Lithuanian union, strengthening the ties between the two nations. Focused on consolidating the monarchy and promoting Christianity. Her reign marked significant cultural and political developments in Poland. Renowned for her efforts in education and founding universities, especially the establishment of the Jagiellonian University. Died in 1399, leaving a lasting legacy.

Became the first female monarch of Poland

Strengthened the union between Poland and Lithuania

Promoted the founding of the Jagiellonian University

Other People Born on April 8th

Catfish Hunter

Baseball pitcher, 1974 Cy Young Award winner
Born
April 8th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1999 25 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent pitcher in Major League Baseball, achieved success primarily with the Oakland Athletics and the New York Yankees. Key contributor to the Athletics during their championship years in the early 1970s, leading the team to three consecutive World Series titles from 1972 to 1974. Recognized for outstanding performance, received the Cy Young Award in 1974, becoming the first pitcher in American League history to win the award after the league expanded to include both major leagues. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1987, cementing a legacy in the sport.

Continue Reading

James Herbert

English author of horror novels
Born
April 8th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 69 years old

An author from England, primarily recognized for writing horror and thriller novels. Gained significant attention with the publication of 'The Rats' in 1974, which marked the beginning of a successful literary career. Many works featured themes of the supernatural and psychological horror, often drawing on elements of fear and suspense. Maintained a loyal readership and achieved commercial success throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Other notable titles include 'Fluke', 'The Fog', and 'Domain'.

Continue Reading

Barbara Kingsolver

American novelist and essayist
Born
April 8th, 1955 70 years ago

Barbara Kingsolver is an American author specializing in novels, essays, and poetry. Born in 1955, she gained recognition for her engaging narratives that often explore themes of ecology, community, and social justice. Her breakthrough work, 'The Poisonwood Bible', published in 1998, tells the story of a missionary family in the Congo and examines the complex interplay of culture and identity. Kingsolver has also written several other acclaimed novels, including 'Animal, Vegetable, Miracle', a nonfiction account emphasizing sustainable living and local food systems. Her writing often intertwines personal experiences with broader social issues, making her works both informative and thought-provoking.

Continue Reading

Paul Gray

Bass player for Slipknot
Born
April 8th, 1972 53 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2010 15 years ago — 38 years old

A bass player and songwriter, contributed to the heavy metal band Slipknot. The band's debut album, self-titled, was released in 1999 and gained significant commercial success. The band's aggressive style and distinctive image earned them a large following. Participated in subsequent albums, including 'Iowa' and 'Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses)'. Also involved in various side projects and collaborations within the metal genre.

Continue Reading

Evans Rutto

Kenyan long-distance runner and marathon champion
Born
April 8th, 1978 47 years ago

Born in 1978, this long-distance runner specialized in marathons and gained recognition in the early 2000s. Achievements include winning the Chicago Marathon in 2003 and setting a course record. Competed successfully in various international events representing Kenya, becoming a prominent figure in the marathon circuit. Achieved national and international ranking during the peak of his career and contributed to the legacy of Kenyan dominance in long-distance running.

Continue Reading

Renzo De Felice

Italian historian and author of works on fascism
Born
April 8th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1996 29 years ago — 67 years old

An influential historian and author specialized in the study of Italian fascism and its effects. Focused on the complex dynamics of fascist ideology and its leader's role in shaping modern Italy. Authored several key works, including a detailed biography of Benito Mussolini, which garnered significant attention for its analytical depth. Contributed extensively to the understanding of 20th-century Italian history through rigorous research and scholarly publications.

Continue Reading