Jeanne Sauvé
Governor General of Canada
A prominent Canadian journalist and politician, served as the 23rd Governor General of Canada from 1984 to 1990. Prior to that role, had a notable career in journalism with Radio-Canada and later entered politics. Elected as the first female Speaker of the House of Commons in 1970, contributed significantly to Canadian political discourse. Advocated for various social issues throughout her career.
Served as the first female Governor General of Canada
Elected as the first female Speaker of the House of Commons
Other People Born on April 26th
Peter II of Portugal
King and Monarch of Portugal
Born
April 26th, 1648 377 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1706 319 years ago — 58 years old
Ruled as king from 1683 until death in 1706. Oversaw a period of political challenges, including conflicts with France. Strengthened alliances with England and other European powers. Was involved in the War of the Spanish Succession, aligning Portugal with Britain against France and Spain. Achieved significant territorial gains in Brazil during the reign. Worked on reforms within the administration, focusing on improving governance and economic stability.
Continue ReadingRudolf Hess
Nazi Deputy Führer and politician
Born
April 26th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1987 38 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1894, served as Deputy Führer in Nazi Germany until 1941. Played a prominent role in the early years of the Nazi regime under Adolf Hitler. In 1941, made a solo flight to Scotland in an attempt to negotiate peace with the United Kingdom, which resulted in his capture and imprisonment. Subsequently, played a significant role in the Nuremberg Trials as a key defendant, where he was sentenced to life imprisonment for crimes against peace. Remained imprisoned until his death in 1987.
Continue ReadingJohn Corabi
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 26th, 1959 66 years ago
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, gained recognition as a member of the rock band Mötley Crüe. Contributed to the band's self-titled album released in 1994. Worked with several other bands, including The Scream and Union. As a solo artist, released multiple albums showcasing a distinctive hard rock sound. Developed a reputation for powerful vocal abilities and strong stage presence.
Continue ReadingFrederick Law Olmsted
Landscape architect, co-designed Central Park
Born
April 26th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1903 122 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent landscape architect and journalist, co-designed Central Park in New York City, which opened in 1858. Contributed to the design of numerous other parks and urban spaces across the United States. Advocated for the preservation of natural landscapes and the creation of public parks as essential to urban life. Influenced the field of landscape architecture through writings and designs that emphasized the integration of human and natural environments.
Continue ReadingAlberto Quintano
Chilean footballer
Born
April 26th, 1946 79 years ago
A prominent figure in Chilean football, played as a midfielder for several clubs. Spent significant parts of the career at Universidad de Chile, where contributed to multiple championships. Represented the national team in international competitions, playing in crucial qualifying matches for the FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingThomas Reid
Scottish philosopher and academic
Born
April 26th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1796 229 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, contributed significantly to philosophy, particularly in the fields of epistemology and moral philosophy. Established the philosophy of common sense, emphasizing immediate perception as a foundation for knowledge. Served as a professor at the University of Aberdeen and later at the University of Glasgow. Wrote influential works, including 'An Inquiry into the Human Mind on the Principles of Common Sense' and 'Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man'. Engaged in philosophical debates with other Enlightenment thinkers, shaping the discourse of the time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 26th
Cleven "Goodie" Goudeau
Art director and cartoonist, Goofus & Gallant
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old
An art director and cartoonist contributed to various publications including highlights for children. Created the comic strip Goofus and Gallant, which educated young readers about appropriate behavior. Worked extensively in the field of visual storytelling and his style influenced a generation of cartoonists. Established a reputation for engaging illustrations that combined humor and life lessons.
Continue ReadingLucky Luciano
Italian-American mob boss
Born
November 24th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1962 63 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1897 in Sicily, a significant figure in organized crime in the United States. Played a pivotal role in the development of the National Crime Syndicate. Instrumental in establishing the commission system to govern Mafia activities. Deported to Italy in 1946 after being convicted of prostitution charges, continued to influence organized crime from abroad until death in 1962.
Continue ReadingKobe Bryant
Basketball player, 5-time NBA champion
Born
August 23rd, 1978 47 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2020 5 years ago — 41 years old
An American basketball player, played 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. Achieved five NBA championships and earned two NBA Finals MVP awards. Scored 81 points in a single game against the Toronto Raptors, the second-highest in NBA history. Represented the United States in international competitions, winning two Olympic gold medals in basketball. Transitioned to various ventures post-retirement, including a successful film project.
Continue ReadingJosé Emilio Pacheco
Mexican poet and author of 'Las batallas en el desierto'
Born
June 30th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
Significant contributions to Mexican literature occurred through poetry and prose. Various themes explored include social issues and the human condition. Notable works include 'Las batallas en el desierto', which gained acclaim for its reflection on Mexican identity. Received various awards throughout a prolific career, cementing a legacy in contemporary literature. In addition to poetry, contributions included essays and translations, highlighting a multifaceted literary approach.
Continue ReadingDon Budge
Tennis player and coach, Grand Slam winner
Born
June 13th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2000 25 years ago — 84 years old
An American tennis player achieved the first Grand Slam in 1938, winning all four major championships in a single calendar year. Budge secured victories at the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and the U.S. Open. His innovative playstyle and powerful two-handed backhand revolutionized the game. Post-retirement, Budge contributed to tennis as a coach and served as a spokesperson for the sport, promoting its growth. He also played a significant role in the establishment of tennis as a professional career.
Continue ReadingJohn Altobelli
College baseball coach at Orange Coast College
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2020 5 years ago — 57 years old
Coached the baseball team at Orange Coast College for over 27 years. Led the team to four state championships during his tenure. Developed numerous players who advanced to professional baseball, contributing significantly to the sport at the collegiate level.
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