Maria Theresa
Holy Roman Empress and reformer
Served as the only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions and the last Holy Roman Empress. Ascended to the throne in 1740 following the death of her father. Implemented significant administrative, military, and economic reforms. Her reign included the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War, which challenged her authority. Established a centralized state and improved the education system. Promoted the welfare of the monarchy and the rights of her subjects during her reign, lasting until 1780.
Implemented extensive reforms in the Habsburg dominions
Fought in the War of the Austrian Succession
Established a centralized state
Improved education and welfare systems
Other People Born on May 13th
Count Johann Hartwig Ernst von Bernstorff
Danish politician and diplomat
Born
May 13th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1772 253 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the Danish foreign minister from 1744 to 1751. Played a significant role in shaping Danish foreign policy during a transformative period in Northern Europe. Negotiated treaties and maintained relationships with other nations, impacting Denmark's position within European politics. Advocated for a neutral stance amidst conflicts, prioritizing trade and national interests.
Continue ReadingBarry Zito
Major League Baseball pitcher and Cy Young Award winner
Born
May 13th, 1978 47 years ago
Played professional baseball as a pitcher from 2000 to 2015. Zito pitched for the Oakland Athletics and the San Francisco Giants. Achieved significant success during his career, highlighted by a Cy Young Award in 2002. Contributed to the Giants' victory in the 2012 World Series, further solidifying a notable athletic career.
Continue ReadingCharles Watson-Wentworth
British Prime Minister, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham
Born
May 13th, 1730 295 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1782 243 years ago — 52 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain during two non-consecutive terms in the 18th century. His first term lasted from 1765 to 1766 and was marked by efforts to repeal the Stamp Act, which aimed to tax American colonies. The second term occurred from 1782 until his death in 1782, focusing on peace negotiations following the American Revolutionary War. Active in the Whig party, implemented policies that shaped British governance during a turbulent time.
Continue ReadingGil Evans
Composer and bandleader of jazz music
Born
May 13th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1988 38 years ago — 76 years old
Contributions included pioneering arrangements in the jazz genre, particularly through collaborative works with musicians such as Miles Davis. Worked extensively in the jazz fusion style and was integral in the development of orchestral jazz. Created influential recordings, including 'Miles Ahead' and 'Sketches of Spain'. Led the Gil Evans Orchestra, which showcased innovative compositions and arrangements. Received multiple Grammy Awards for work in music, cementing a legacy in jazz history.
Continue ReadingNico Hoerner
Baseball player with Chicago Cubs
Born
May 13th, 1997 28 years ago
Born in 1997, this American baseball player played for the Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball. A versatile infielder, he reached the major leagues in 2019. Over the years, he developed a reputation for strong defensive skills and an ability to contribute offensively. In 2020, he showcased his talents in the postseason, helping the team compete at a high level.
Continue ReadingPope Pius IX
Pope with the longest reign in history
Born
May 13th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1878 148 years ago — 85 years old
Became pope in 1846 and served until death in 1878, leading the Catholic Church through significant events such as the First Vatican Council which defined papal infallibility. Oversaw the loss of the Papal States, leading to a decrease in temporal power. Advocated for the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, declared in 1854. His reign was marked by political turmoil in Italy and Europe, which shaped the Church's modern role.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 29th
Irene Handl
English actress and comedian
Born
December 27th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1987 38 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1901, this English actress enjoyed a prolific career in film and television, particularly known for her comedic roles. She began acting at a young age and became a familiar face in the entertainment industry during the 1950s and 1960s. Major performances included roles in films such as 'The Ladykillers' and 'The Wild Affair', as well as appearances in popular television series like 'The Avengers' and 'The Dick Emery Show'. With her distinctive voice and unique comedic timing, she maintained a steady presence on screen until the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingMary Somerville
Scottish mathematician and astronomer
Born
December 26th, 1780 245 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1872 153 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1780, contributions to mathematics and astronomy included significant works on celestial mechanics and mathematical analysis. Authored several influential books that popularized scientific concepts. She played a pivotal role in advocating for women's education in science. Her most notable work, 'Physical Geography', provided insights into physical sciences, while 'On the Connexion of the Physical Sciences' effectively bridged multiple scientific disciplines. Involved in the scientific community, she was a member of the Royal Astronomical Society.
Continue ReadingPhilipp Scheidemann
German politician and journalist, Chancellor
Born
July 26th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1939 86 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1865, a prominent journalist and politician played a significant role in the early Weimar Republic. In 1918, proclaimed the establishment of the German Republic from the Reichstag, becoming the first Chancellor of Germany under the new republic. His tenure lasted until 1919, marked by challenges such as post-war recovery and political instability. Affiliated with the Social Democratic Party, advocated for social reforms and workers' rights during a tumultuous period in German history.
Continue ReadingPercy Williams
Canadian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
May 19th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1982 43 years ago — 74 years old
Achieved significant acclaim as a sprinter representing Canada. Competed in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, securing two gold medals in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Dominated Canadian sprinting in the late 1920s, setting national records and becoming a prominent figure in athletics. His Olympic victories contributed to Canada's success in the event, showcasing sprinting talents on an international stage.
Continue ReadingPeng Dehuai
Chinese general and military leader
Born
October 24th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1974 51 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a key general in the Chinese Civil War and later became the first Minister of National Defense of the People's Republic of China. Participated in the Korean War, commanding Chinese forces against United Nations troops. Advocated for military modernization and opposed the Great Leap Forward, leading to political struggles during the Cultural Revolution. Played a significant role in shaping the early military strategies of modern China.
Continue ReadingBoyd Wagner
Colonel and pilot of WWII era
Born
October 26th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1942 83 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1916, a colonel and pilot served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Participated in several significant aerial campaigns in the Pacific Theater. After the war, continued a career in military aviation, contributing to various training programs and operational strategies. Retired from active duty, remained involved in aviation as a civilian, imparting knowledge and experience to future generations of pilots.
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