James Hamilton
British statesman and 1st Duke of Abercorn
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Born in 1811, this individual served as a prominent British statesman, engaged in various levels of government. Appointed as the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland in the 19th century, played a significant role in the administration of Irish affairs. Held several governmental positions throughout his career, including serving as Secretary of State for the Colonies. His work contributed to the governance and political landscape of the time, particularly in relation to Ireland.
Served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland
Held the position of Secretary of State for the Colonies
Other People Born on January 21st
Paul Allen
Businessman, co-founder of Microsoft
Born
January 21st, 1953 72 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 65 years old
Co-founded Microsoft in 1975 with Bill Gates, helping to launch the personal computer revolution. Allen served as the executive vice president of research and new product development. After leaving Microsoft in the early 1980s, he focused on various ventures including the ownership of sports teams and investments in technology and science. He established the Allen Institute for Brain Science and the Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence. His philanthropic efforts included significant contributions to science, technology, and education, as well as the arts and social issues.
Continue ReadingBenny Hill
Actor and comedian from The Benny Hill Show
Born
January 21st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1992 33 years ago — 68 years old
An English actor, singer, and screenwriter gained prominence through a long-running television program that featured a blend of comedy sketches, physical humor, and slapstick. The Benny Hill Show became highly popular, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s, showcasing Hill's unique comedic style characterized by quick wit and playful antics. The program achieved significant ratings and was broadcast in various countries, contributing to Hill’s international recognition. Throughout his career, Hill also performed in films and on stage, solidifying his reputation as a versatile performer, but it was his television work that left a lasting legacy in comedy.
Continue ReadingEdith Tolkien
Muse of J. R. R. Tolkien's works
Born
January 21st, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1889, she inspired many of the characters in J.R.R. Tolkien's literature, particularly the elven character Lúthien in 'The Silmarillion', reflecting her profound influence on his storytelling. The couple's relationship played a significant role in Tolkien's creative process, with their early romance featured in his writings. Their partnership lasted until Tolkien's death in 1973, and she was a constant supporter of his literary ambitions.
Continue ReadingWilliam Henry Smyth
Royal Navy officer and hydrographer
Born
January 21st, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 77 years old
A Royal Navy officer served as a hydrographer, astronomer, and numismatist. Contributed to nautical charts and the understanding of celestial navigation. Authored 'The English County Histories' and 'A Solar System'. Engaged in mapping and surveying various parts of the world, enhancing maritime safety. Had a role in the establishment of the Royal Geographical Society and contributed knowledge to the fields of astronomy and numismatics.
Continue ReadingRichie Havens
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
January 21st, 1941 84 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 72 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, gained prominence during the 1960s folk music revival. Achieved fame for a powerful performance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969. Released several albums, with notable works including 'Common Ground' and 'Richard P. Havens, 1983'. His musical style blended folk, blues, and rock elements, influencing a generation of musicians and activists.
Continue ReadingHenry Casimir I of Nassau-Dietz
Count of Nassau-Dietz and military leader
Born
January 21st, 1612 413 years ago
Died
1640 385 years ago — 28 years old
Served as Count of Nassau-Dietz during the 17th century. Held a significant military command in the Dutch Republic during the Eighty Years' War. Played a key role in various military engagements against Spanish forces. Promoted the welfare of his territories and sought to enhance their strategic positions. Managed estate affairs and fortified defenses in his domains. Demonstrated leadership and governance in a turbulent historical period.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 22nd
Bernhard Knipperdolling
German religious leader and reformer
Born
1495 530 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1536 489 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent figure during the early Reformation in Germany, played a critical role in the iconoclastic movements in Münster. Became a key leader of the Anabaptist community in the city, advocating for radical religious changes and communal living. Engaged in the tumultuous political climate of the time, leading efforts to establish a new religious order. Eventually faced persecution due to these radical views and was executed for heresy, marking a significant moment in the history of the Reformation.
Continue ReadingDavid Edward Hughes
Physicist, co-inventor of the microphone
Born
May 16th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1900 125 years ago — 68 years old
A Welsh-American physicist contributed significantly to the field of acoustics through the invention of the microphone. This invention was pivotal in the development of sound technology. His work in electrical engineering also included innovations in telegraphy and the study of electromagnetic waves. Hughes's contributions enabled advances in communication and sound reproduction.
Continue ReadingJeremiah Dixon
Surveyor and astronomer, Dixon's Line
Born
July 27th, 1733 292 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1779 246 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent English surveyor and astronomer contributed significantly to the mapping of the American colonies. Alongside Charles Mason, conducted the Mason-Dixon survey between 1763 and 1767, establishing a boundary between Pennsylvania and Maryland. This work helped settle disputes over territory while providing a foundation for the border between the North and South in the United States. The survey derived its fame from later associations with the sectional conflict in American history. Dixon also developed astronomical tables and contributed to various surveying methods. His work in astronomy included observations of celestial events, enhancing navigation and cartography.
Continue ReadingShah Jahan
Mughal emperor and architect of the Taj Mahal
Born
January 5th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1666 359 years ago — 74 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1628 as the fifth Mughal emperor. His reign from 1628 to 1658 was marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra, a mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Jahan's rule also saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire and a flourishing of culture and the arts. His later years were marred by conflict with his son, Aurangzeb, who eventually imprisoned him.
Continue ReadingEduardo Frei Montalva
Chilean lawyer and politician, President
Born
January 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1982 43 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent Chilean lawyer and politician, served as the 28th President of Chile from 1964 to 1970. Implemented the 'Chilean Way to Socialism', promoting land reform and nationalization of copper industries. During presidency, initiated significant social programs aimed at reducing poverty and improving education. Played a critical role in establishing a broader social safety net through various policies. His tenure focused on balancing economic development with social equity.
Continue ReadingMiles Lerman
Holocaust survivor and activist
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2008 17 years ago — 88 years old
A Holocaust survivor who actively participated in raising awareness about the Holocaust and advocating for Jewish rights. Helped to establish the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and played a role in preserving Holocaust education. Lerman's experiences during the Holocaust propelled a lifelong commitment to human rights activism.
Continue Reading