José Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia

Paraguayan lawyer and dictator

José Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia - Paraguayan lawyer and dictator
Born

January 6th, 1766
259 years ago

Died

September 20th, 1840
184 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Paraguay

Links & References

Served as the first dictator of Paraguay from 1814 until death in 1840. Played a significant role in shaping the early government of Paraguay following its independence from Spain. Implemented significant reforms aimed at consolidating power and creating a centralized state. Held strict control over the political landscape, limiting foreign influence and promoting self-sufficiency.

Established a centralist government in Paraguay

Enforced policies of isolationism

Significantly influenced Paraguay's early development

Other People Born on January 6th

Park Mok-wol

Korean poet and influential academic
Born
January 6th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1978 47 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1916, this individual contributed significantly to Korean literature through poetry and academic work. Engaged in both teaching and writing, published several notable poetry collections that explored themes of nature and identity. Participated in various literary movements and was influential in shaping modern Korean poetry.

Continue Reading

Julio María Sanguinetti

Uruguayan journalist and lawyer, President
Born
January 6th, 1936 89 years ago

Born in 1936, this individual served as the 29th President of Uruguay from 1995 to 2000 and previously from 1985 to 1988. An influential figure in Uruguayan politics, he played a crucial role in the country's transition to democracy following a military dictatorship. As a journalist and lawyer, this individual made significant contributions to public discourse and legal reforms in Uruguay. Known for advocating for civil liberties and democratic governance, this individual continued to be active in political discussions after leaving office.

Continue Reading

Bongani Khumalo

South African footballer and defender
Born
January 6th, 1987 38 years ago

Played professional football primarily as a defender. Developed through the youth ranks of the University of Pretoria. Joined the senior team, contributing to their success in various competitions. Later played in the English Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur, making appearances during the club's campaigns. Represented the South African national team, participating in major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup.

Continue Reading

James Madison Porter

American lawyer and Secretary of War
Born
January 6th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1862 162 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the 18th Secretary of War from 1841 to 1843. Held various political positions including serving as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Contributed to military and defense policies during a time of national expansion and challenges. Played a significant role in the American political landscape during the early 19th century.

Continue Reading

Henri Herz

Austrian pianist and composer, concertos
Born
January 6th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1888 137 years ago — 84 years old

Residency in Paris led to prominence as a pianist and composer. Established a successful concert career across Europe, showcasing technical prowess and lyrical style. Contributed significantly to the piano repertoire with numerous compositions, including concertos and chamber works. Founded a piano school in Paris that trained many notable musicians.

Continue Reading

Gaspar de Guzmán

Count-Duke of Olivares, Spanish statesman
Born
January 6th, 1587 438 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1645 380 years ago — 58 years old

Count-Duke of Olivares served as the chief minister to King Philip IV of Spain from 1621 to 1643. He played a significant role in the administration and military strategies of Spain during the Thirty Years' War. His policies aimed at centralizing the Spanish government and increasing its power, although they faced resistance from various regions. Olivares’ advocacy for the union of the Spanish kingdoms and his efforts to reform taxation were pivotal during his tenure. His influence diminished later due to various military defeats and internal opposition, leading to his eventual fall from power.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 20th

Ibn Taymiyyah

Syrian scholar and theologian
Born
January 22nd, 1263 762 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1328 696 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent scholar and theologian from Syria, significant contributions were made to Islamic thought and jurisprudence. Various works focused on theology, philosophy, and law, and established a strong foundation for later Islamic scholars. His teachings emphasized a return to the original sources of Islam, namely the Quran and Hadith, advocating for practices based on the earliest interpretations. He engaged in theological debates and wrote extensively, influencing many subsequent scholars and movements.

Continue Reading

Philander Chase

American bishop and educator, founded Kenyon College
Born
1775 250 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1852 172 years ago — 77 years old

An American bishop and educator established Kenyon College in 1824, becoming the first president of the institution. Served as an episcopal leader and also played a significant role in the founding of several other institutions, promoting education and religious values within the community. Engaged in the broader Episcopal Church, contributing to its development during the early 19th century in the United States.

Continue Reading

Burhanuddin Rabbani

Afghan politician and academic leader
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2011 13 years ago — 71 years old

An influential academic and politician served as the 10th President of Afghanistan from 1992 to 1996. During the Mujahideen's struggle against Soviet intervention, led the Islamic Unity of Afghanistan and played a significant role in the power dynamics of the country after the Soviet withdrawal. After the Taliban's rise, continued to be active in opposition politics and headed the High Council for Peace. Promoted negotiations aimed at reviving peace in Afghanistan until assassination in 2011.

Continue Reading

José Trinidad Reyes

Honduran philosopher and theorist
Born
June 11th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1855 169 years ago — 58 years old

Significant contributions to philosophical thought in Central America occurred. Emphasis on education and civic responsibility formed the foundation of various educational reforms. Established several educational institutions in Honduras, promoting widespread learning. Engagement in political discourse influenced the shaping of early Honduran society.

Continue Reading

Takako Doi

Japanese politician and scholar.
Born
November 30th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2014 10 years ago — 85 years old

Elected as a member of the House of Representatives in 1979. Served as the 68th Speaker of the House of Representatives of Japan from 1989 to 1990, marking a significant role in Japanese politics. Instrumental in advancing women's rights and representation within the political sphere throughout her career. Contributed to various legislative efforts and served in influential positions within the Democratic Party and the House of Representatives.

Continue Reading

James B. Vaught

American General and military leader
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2013 11 years ago — 87 years old

Graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1950. Served in various capacities during the Vietnam War, including positions involving air mobility and logistics. Advocated for the implementation of the helicopter in combat operations, contributing to changes in military strategy. Held command positions throughout his career, culminating in leadership roles that influenced helicopter operations. Retired as a Major General with extensive service across multiple theaters.

Continue Reading