Maria of Calabria

Empress of Constantinople

Maria of Calabria - Leaders & Politicians born 1329
Born

1329
696 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Italy

Links & References

Born into Italian nobility, held the title of Empress consort of Constantinople through marriage. Played a significant role in the political landscape of the Byzantine Empire during the 14th century. Governed alongside her husband, who was a prominent figure in the empire's history. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties and maintain stability during a tumultuous period.

Served as Empress consort of Constantinople

Strengthened political alliances through marriage

Other People Who Died on May 20th

Yevgeny Khrunov

Russian cosmonaut and space commander
Born
September 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2000 25 years ago — 66 years old

Became a prominent figure in the Soviet space program, participating in space missions during the height of space exploration. Flew on the Soyuz 5 mission in 1969, notable for docking with Soyuz 4 and facilitating crew transfers in orbit. Khrunov's contributions were part of the early efforts in developing space station technology and ensuring the success of crewed missions. Engaged in extensive training and operations, contributing to the advancement of human spaceflight.

Continue Reading

Jon Pertwee

English actor and Doctor Who star
Born
July 7th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 76 years old

An English actor gained prominence through significant roles in television and film. Best recognized for portraying the Third Doctor in the long-running sci-fi series Doctor Who, the performance spanned from 1970 to 1974. Pertwee's career included various works in theater, radio, and television, showcasing versatility in character roles. His portrayal of the Doctor brought a blend of charm and authority, influencing the iconic character's future development. Apart from Doctor Who, Pertwee starred in the sitcom Worzel Gummidge as the title character, a scarecrow who comes to life, which became a beloved series in the UK.

Continue Reading

Osman II

Ottoman Sultan and military leader
Born
November 3rd, 1604 421 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1622 403 years ago — 17 years old

Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1618 until 1622, played a pivotal role in military campaigns against Poland and Persia. Attempted to reform the military and administrative structures, advocating for a stronger central authority. His reign was marked by tensions with the Janissaries, leading to a power struggle that resulted in his deposition and execution. This significant period in Ottoman history showed the challenges of governance and the influence of military factions.

Continue Reading

Jean-Pierre Rampal

Flute player and classical musician
Born
January 7th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old

Renowned for contributions to the classical music scene, distinguished in the field of flute performance. Achieved a celebrated career by collaborating with various orchestras and artists worldwide. Rampal recorded over 100 albums and expanded the solo flute repertoire through innovative arrangements and compositions. Known for pioneering the flute as a solo instrument in concert settings and increasing its popularity in classical music circles.

Continue Reading

Władysław IV Vasa

King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania
Born
June 9th, 1595 430 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1648 377 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1595, this monarch reigned over the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth from 1632 until 1648. His rule focused on strengthening the military and pursuing foreign alliances. Significant efforts were made to modernize the naval fleet and expand trade. Under his leadership, the Commonwealth engaged in the wars against Sweden and Russia, navigating complicated political landscapes. He sought to stabilize the internal politics of the Commonwealth and was involved in various diplomatic negotiations, especially with the Habsburgs and the Ottoman Empire.

Continue Reading

Paul Ricœur

Philosopher and author of 'Oneself as Another'
Born
February 27th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of philosophy and hermeneutics. Explored themes of narrative identity and the human experience. Worked extensively on ethics, political theory, and the philosophy of language. Authored several influential books, including 'Freud and Philosophy' and 'Oneself as Another'. Engaged with various philosophical traditions and integrated elements of existentialism and phenomenology into writings.

Continue Reading