John of Leiden
Anabaptist leader and revolutionary figure
A prominent Anabaptist leader emerged during the Protestant Reformation in the Dutch city of Leiden. Claimed leadership of a radical faction, advocating for communal living and the separation of church and state. In 1534, led the seizure of the city of Munster, declaring it a New Jerusalem. Established a theocratic government, implementing a strict interpretation of biblical principles. His regime ended in 1535, leading to his capture and subsequent execution in 1536.
Led the Munster Rebellion
Declared a theocratic government in Munster
Other People Born on February 2nd
Piotr Skarga
Polish writer and influential preacher
Born
February 2nd, 1536 489 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1612 413 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in the 16th century, played a significant role in the Polish Reformation. Authored numerous religious and moralistic works, most notably 'Żywoty Świętych' (Lives of the Saints), which included biographies of saints and served as a key text in Polish spirituality. Also contributed to the Jesuit establishment in Poland, advocating for education and moral reform. His writings reflected the cultural and religious landscape of his time, influencing Polish literature and religious thought.
Continue ReadingGotthard Kettler
Duke of Courland and Semigallia
Born
February 2nd, 1517 508 years ago
Died
1587 438 years ago — 70 years old
Held the position of the last Master of the Livonian Order. Transitioned authority to become the first Duke of Courland and Semigallia following the dissolution of the order. Established the duchy as a territorial entity under Polish sovereignty. Promoted trade and industry within the region during his rule.
Continue ReadingJohn Cornyn
American lawyer and Texas senator
Born
February 2nd, 1952 73 years ago
Served as a United States Senator from Texas since 2002. Elected as the 49th Attorney General of Texas from 1999 to 2002. Before his political career, practiced law and held various governmental positions including a Texas Supreme Court Justice. Advocated for issues such as national security and healthcare reform during Senate tenure.
Continue ReadingTochigiyama Moriya
Japanese sumo wrestler, 27th Yokozuna
Born
February 2nd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Japan, this sumo wrestler achieved the prestigious rank of Yokozuna, the highest in the sport. Competing during the early 20th century, this athlete earned recognition for his skill and power in the ring. With a career that spanned over a decade, he showcased his abilities and contributed to the popularity of sumo wrestling in Japan. His style and technique provided a template for future wrestlers in the sport.
Continue ReadingJames Joyce
Irish novelist and modernist writer
Born
February 2nd, 1882 143 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1941 84 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in modernist literature, a groundbreaking novelist, short story writer, and poet. The most substantial works include 'Ulysses', a complex and innovative retelling of Homer's epic, set in Dublin. 'A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man' presents a semi-autobiographical account of the development of an artist through a personal and social lens. 'Dubliners', a collection of short stories, captures the life of Dublin's inhabitants with rich detail and depth. Joyce's unique narrative techniques and stream-of-consciousness style significantly influenced 20th-century literature.
Continue ReadingCharles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord
French politician and Prime Minister
Born
February 2nd, 1754 271 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1838 187 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent French politician and diplomat, served as Prime Minister during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution and the subsequent Napoleonic Era. Played a pivotal role in the Congress of Vienna and was instrumental in shaping European diplomatic relations in the early 19th century. Held various significant positions under different regimes, including the Ancien Régime, the Revolutionary government, and both Napoleonic and Bourbon restorations. Renowned for his diplomatic skills and adaptability, he maneuvered through shifting political landscapes with acumen.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 22nd
Simon Marsden
Photographer and author of Gothic imagery
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 64 years old
This individual focused on Gothic architecture through photography. Published several books that showcased extensive photographic work, emphasizing dark and atmospheric imagery. Notable works include 'The Haunted Landscape' and 'The Last of England,' which captured the essence of Gothic structures and landscapes. Contributed to exhibitions that brought attention to historical sites and their melancholic beauty. Engaged in a unique approach to capturing the interplay of light and shadow, often exploring themes of decay and memory in architecture.
Continue ReadingTommie Agee
Baseball player, 1969 World Series champion
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2001 24 years ago — 59 years old
An American baseball player had a significant career in Major League Baseball, primarily as an outfielder. Debuting in 1962, played for the Chicago White Sox and New York Mets. Key achievements included helping the Mets win their first World Series in 1969, where standout performances solidified a legacy in the sport. Agee's defensive skills and batting prowess contributed to the Mets' success during a historic season. His memorable catches in the 1969 World Series remain a highlight of his career. Retired from professional baseball in 1973.
Continue ReadingCarlo Orelli
Italian soldier during World War II
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 111 years old
Served as a soldier in the Italian Army during World War II. Demonstrated leadership and strategic skills in various campaigns. Post-war, contributed to military history as an author and historian, sharing insights about the war experiences and military tactics. Engaged in veterans' affairs, providing support to former soldiers. Continued to advocate for historical preservation and remembrance of military history until death.
Continue ReadingJonni Myyrä
Finnish-American athlete, Olympic medalist
Born
July 13th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1955 70 years ago — 62 years old
Competed in the decathlon and won a gold medal at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics. Also set multiple world records in the decathlon during the early 20th century. Emigrated to the United States where continued to promote athletics and participated in various competitions. His contributions to the sport and achievements remain recognized in athletics history.
Continue ReadingHarry Frank Guggenheim
Businessman, co-founded Newsday
Born
August 23rd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1971 54 years ago — 80 years old
A businessman and publisher, contributed significantly to the media landscape. Co-founded Newsday in 1940, which became a prominent newspaper in Long Island, New York. Served as the president of the company for many years, overseeing its growth and development. Also involved in various philanthropic efforts, including support for educational and cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingR. Budd Dwyer
Treasurer of Pennsylvania and educator
Born
November 21st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1987 38 years ago — 47 years old
Served as the 30th Treasurer of Pennsylvania from 1971 until 1987. Before this role, worked as a teacher and school administrator, which shaped a commitment to public service and education. Attempted to address fiscal issues within the state's treasury department. Dwyer's tenure ended controversially with a public suicide during a press conference, an event which drew considerable media attention and discussion regarding mental health and political pressure.
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