Mahatma Gandhi
Indian freedom fighter and activist
A prominent leader in the Indian independence movement against British rule, dedicated life to nonviolent civil disobedience. Advocated for the rights of the oppressed and sought to unite the diverse communities in India. Played a crucial role in various campaigns including the Salt March in 1930, which highlighted the injustice of British salt laws. Championed topics such as economic self-sufficiency through cottage industries, promoting the use of khadi. His philosophy and tactics influenced civil rights movements globally.
Led the Salt March in 1930
Promoted nonviolent resistance
Fostered Hindu-Muslim unity
Other People Born on October 2nd
Alexander P. Stewart
American Civil War general
Born
October 2nd, 1821 204 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1908 117 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War. Stewart graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1842 and started his military career in the United States Army. He became a prominent commander in the Confederate Army, notably leading troops at the Battle of Shiloh and the Battle of Vicksburg. Stewart's leadership was instrumental in various campaigns, particularly in the Army of Tennessee under generals like Joseph E. Johnston and John B. Hood. After the war, he returned to a civilian life and engaged in education, serving as the president of the University of Nashville.
Continue ReadingRichard III of England
King of England and military leader
Born
October 2nd, 1452 573 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1485 540 years ago — 32 years old
Reigned as King of England from 1483 until death in battle in 1485. Born in 1452, served as Duke of Gloucester and fought in the Wars of the Roses. Led the Yorkist armies during the conflict. Was the last king from the House of York and the last of the Plantagenets. His reign was marked by attempts to strengthen the monarchy and address the ongoing civil strife of his time. Died at the Battle of Bosworth Field, a decisive battle that marked the end of the Wars of the Roses and the rise of the Tudor dynasty. The remains were later discovered in 2012 under a parking lot in Leicester.
Continue ReadingAaron McKie
NBA basketball player and coach
Born
October 2nd, 1972 53 years ago
A professional basketball player and coach, played primarily for the Philadelphia 76ers. Played as a shooting guard and small forward and was a key figure during the team's successful runs in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Contributed to the team's appearance in the 2001 NBA Finals. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, serving as an assistant coach for several teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers.
Continue ReadingFerdinand Foch
French Field Marshal and military strategist
Born
October 2nd, 1851 174 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1929 96 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent military figure, played a crucial role during World War I as the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces. Implemented innovative strategies that contributed to key victories at battles such as the Second Battle of the Marne and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Led the Allies towards the victory that culminated in the signing of the Armistice on November 11, 1918, effectively ending the war. Served as a military advisor in the post-war period, influencing the peace negotiations at the Treaty of Versailles. Foch's military theories and principles continued to be studied in military academies around the world.
Continue ReadingNat Turner
Slave rebellion leader and revolutionary
Born
October 2nd, 1800 225 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1831 194 years ago — 31 years old
A significant figure in American history, a rebellion leader orchestrated a slave uprising in Virginia in 1831. The revolt aimed to overthrow the system of slavery and led to a violent confrontation with plantation owners. The rebellion resulted in the deaths of dozens of people and instigated a harsh backlash against enslaved individuals. The uprising was influential in the abolition movement, raising awareness of the brutal realities of slavery and igniting tensions leading up to the Civil War. The actions prompted widespread discussions regarding slavery and its moral implications.
Continue ReadingCharles Borromeo
Italian cardinal and saint
Born
October 2nd, 1538 487 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1584 441 years ago — 46 years old
Served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church, playing a significant role during the Counter-Reformation. Worked extensively to reform the church and improve educational standards among the clergy. Established the seminary system to enhance the training of priests. Promoted the Council of Trent's decrees regarding clergy reforms and ecclesiastical discipline. Canonized as a saint in 1610, recognized for his commitment to pastoral care and devotion.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 30th
Geraldine McEwan
English actress in film and theatre
Born
May 9th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to film and theatre during a career spanning over six decades. Gained recognition for performances in various adaptations of classic literature and theater. Portrayed Miss Marple in the television series 'Agatha Christie’s Marple', bringing a unique interpretation to the iconic detective character. Also performed in films such as 'The Magdalene Sisters' and 'The Abominable Snowman'. Her stage work included notable productions in London's West End.
Continue ReadingCornelis de Graeff
Dutch mayor and influential politician
Born
October 15th, 1599 426 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1664 361 years ago — 64 years old
Served as mayor of Amsterdam multiple times during the 17th century. Played a significant role in the political landscape and governance of Amsterdam. Advocated for the rights and welfare of citizens and promoted trade and economic development in the city. Engaged in diplomatic relations, especially with England and France, during a period of intense competition among European powers.
Continue ReadingJohn Barry
Composer of film scores like 'Out of Africa'
Born
February 1st, 1873 152 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2011 14 years ago — 137 years old
A prominent English composer and conductor, contributions to film music defined an era. Barry scored a range of films, with significant works in the 1960s and 70s. Collaborated with directors like Lewis Gilbert and embraced the James Bond franchise, composing memorable themes for several films. Achievements include multiple Academy Awards and a lasting influence on film scoring, characterized by lush orchestrations and emotive melodies.
Continue ReadingRudolf
Crown Prince of Austria-Hungary
Born
August 21st, 1858 167 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1889 136 years ago — 30 years old
Born into the Habsburg dynasty, this individual served as the heir apparent to the Austro-Hungarian throne. A proponent of social reform, he advocated for modernizing the empire. His interest in culture and science was evident through his friendships with various intellectuals and artists of the time. The prince's tragic death at a young age ended his potential reign and left significant implications for the empire's political landscape.
Continue ReadingAlexandra of Yugoslavia
Last Queen of Yugoslavia
Born
March 25th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1993 32 years ago — 71 years old
Born into the Greek royal family, she married Peter II, the last King of Yugoslavia. During World War II, the royal family was forced into exile following the Axis invasion of Yugoslavia. After the war, the monarchy was abolished, and the royal family settled in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Throughout her life, she was involved in charitable activities and fostered connections among royal families across Europe. Following the end of her husband's reign, she continued to promote her homeland through work in various organizations. She passed away in 1993, leaving behind a legacy tied to the tumultuous history of Yugoslavia.
Continue ReadingCoenraad Jacob Temminck
Dutch zoologist and ornithologist
Born
March 31st, 1778 247 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1858 167 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of zoology and ornithology. Established a systematic approach to the classification of birds and authored influential works. Played a key role in the development of natural history in the Netherlands during the 19th century. Served as the first director of the Natural History Museum in Leiden, which became a center for scientific research.
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