John Winthrop
English lawyer and 2nd Governor of Massachusetts
An English lawyer and politician, played a significant role in the early development of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Served as the colony's second governor from 1630 to 1634 and again from 1637 to 1640. Instrumental in shaping the legal framework and governance of the colony, emphasizing Puritan values and community ethics. Advocated for the establishment of a society based on religious principles and moral rectitude, which influenced the social and political landscape of New England.
Served multiple terms as Governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony
Led the first large-scale Puritan migration to America
Other People Born on January 12th
Tim Horton
Ice hockey player, co-founder of Tim Hortons
Born
January 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1974 51 years ago — 44 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Achieved two Stanley Cup championships with the Maple Leafs in 1962 and 1963. After retiring from hockey, co-founded the Tim Hortons restaurant chain, which became a prominent fast food franchise in Canada. Horton passed away in a car accident in 1974, but his legacy continues through the coffee and donut chain.
Continue ReadingJijabai Shahaji Bhosale
Mother of Indian King Shivaji Maharaj
Born
January 12th, 1598 427 years ago
Died
1674 351 years ago — 76 years old
Born on January 12, 1598, Jijabai Shahaji Bhosale played a crucial role in the early life of Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Raised in a time of political turmoil, she instilled a sense of valor and resilience in her son. Jijabai's influence as a mother and her strong beliefs in independence and leadership significantly shaped Shivaji's ideologies. She was instrumental in his upbringing and education, emphasizing the importance of waging a just war against oppression. Her legacy continued to influence the Maratha Empire long after her death, as her teachings guided Shivaji's strategies and governance.
Continue ReadingEmre Can
German footballer and Juventus midfielder
Born
January 12th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, this footballer started his professional career with Bayer Leverkusen. In 2014, transferred to Liverpool, where played an integral role in the team's midfield. Contributed to Liverpool's campaign in the UEFA Champions League and secured a UEFA Super Cup title. In 2018, signed with Juventus and has since participated in multiple Serie A championships. Known for versatility in playing both defensive and midfield positions.
Continue ReadingPetrus Scriverius
Dutch historian and scholar
Born
January 12th, 1576 449 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1660 365 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of history and scholarship in the early 17th century. Served as a professor at the University of Leiden, focusing on various historical texts and manuscripts. Published several works that compiled historical narratives and analysis, including studies on the history of the Netherlands and the esteem of prominent figures in Dutch history. Engaged in debates regarding historical interpretation and methodology, influencing future historians.
Continue ReadingDontrelle Willis
Baseball player, 2003 Rookie of the Year
Born
January 12th, 1982 43 years ago
Professional baseball pitcher played primarily for the Florida Marlins in Major League Baseball (MLB). Debuted in 2003 and had an impressive rookie season, earning the National League Rookie of the Year Award. In 2005, achieved an All-Star appearance, showcasing exceptional skills on the mound. Also played for teams such as the Detroit Tigers, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Cincinnati Reds throughout a career spanning nearly a decade. Willis was known for his distinctive pitching style and charismatic presence on the field.
Continue ReadingÉtienne Lenoir
Engineer and designer of the internal combustion engine
Born
January 12th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 78 years old
A Belgian engineer contributed significantly to automotive engineering by designing one of the first internal combustion engines. This invention marked a crucial step in the development of modern vehicles. Lenoir's engine demonstrated the practical application of gas as a fuel source, leading to advances in machinery and transportation. The popularity of this engine facilitated its adoption in various applications, influencing subsequent engine designs and automotive technology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 26th
Sancho I of Portugal
King of Portugal and notable monarch
Born
November 11th, 1154 871 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1212 813 years ago — 57 years old
Ruled as the second King of Portugal from 1185 to 1212. Sancho I succeeded his father, Afonso I, and continued efforts to consolidate the kingdom. Focused on territorial expansion and the Christian reconquest of territories, he played a significant role in the development of Portugal as a distinct entity. His reign saw the establishment of several strategic fortifications and the promotion of trade and agriculture. Sancho I was also known for his dedication to the church and charitable efforts, earning him the title of 'Sancho o Povoador'.
Continue ReadingRobert Fagles
American poet and translator of classics
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2008 17 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent scholar of classical literature, contributions include acclaimed translations of Homer’s 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey'. Fagles taught at Princeton University, influencing countless students and readers through his academic work. His translations are celebrated for their accessibility and poetic quality, revitalizing ancient texts for modern audiences. Additionally, he authored several volumes of poetry, reflecting on personal and universal themes. Fagles received multiple honors, including the PEN / Ralph Manheim Medal for Translation, acknowledging his influence in bridging the gap between ancient and contemporary literature.
Continue ReadingGiambattista Marini
Italian poet and literary figure
Born
1569 456 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1625 400 years ago — 56 years old
Authored significant works in the realm of poetry during the late Renaissance. Marini's writing exhibited a blend of classical themes and innovative stylistic elements. Influential in poetic circles, his most recognized work, 'Adone', is an epic poem that reflects themes of love and mythology. The poem exemplifies the transition from classical to Baroque poetic forms, addressing both divine and personal love. Marini's contributions fostered the evolution of Italian literature, particularly in the development of the sonnet form and poetic expression during the period.
Continue ReadingBarghash bin Said of Zanzibar
Sultan of Zanzibar and East African ruler
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1888 137 years ago — 51 years old
Ruled Zanzibar from 1870 until 1888, instrumental in the development of the island's economy and infrastructure. Oversaw the expansion of clove plantations, which became a significant export. Strengthened diplomatic ties with Western powers and modernized the sultanate's governance. Fostered education and established modern institutions. Engaged in conflicts with rival powers, notably during the Anglo-Zanzibar War in 1896, which occurred shortly after death.
Continue ReadingJacob Ziv
Electrical engineer and compression algorithm developer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2023 2 years ago — 92 years old
An Israeli electrical engineer contributed significantly to the field of data compression through the development of the LZ family of compression algorithms. These algorithms have become foundational in various applications, including file compression and image encoding. The work laid the groundwork for effective data transmission and storage solutions, influencing both academic research and commercial software products. Collaborations with other engineers and researchers led to advancements in information theory and practical implementations of compression techniques throughout the tech industry.
Continue ReadingUriah P. Levy
American naval commander and reformer
Born
1792 233 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1862 163 years ago — 70 years old
Served in the United States Navy, notably achieving the rank of commodore. Advocated for the rights of Jewish Americans, becoming the first Jewish officer to command a warship in the U.S. Navy. Played a significant role in naval operations during the Mexican-American War and the Civil War. Commanded the USS Plymouth and was a key figure in efforts that led to significant naval reforms during his service.
Continue Reading