Matei Basarab

Romanian prince and ruler

Matei Basarab - Romanian prince and ruler
Born

1588
437 years ago

Died

April 9th, 1654
371 years ago — 66 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Romania

Links & References

Ruled Wallachia from 1632 until 1654. Focused on consolidating power and strengthening the principality. Introduced economic reforms and improved trade relations. Promoted religious tolerance and supported the Greek Orthodox Church. Several cultural advancements occurred during the reign, contributing to the development of Romanian national identity. Died on April 9, 1654, marking the end of a significant era in Wallachian history.

Established a stable and prosperous Wallachia

Promoted cultural and religious developments

Implemented economic reforms

Other People Who Died on April 9th

Dante Gabriel Rossetti

Poet and Painter of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood
Born
May 12th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1882 143 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent figure in the Pre-Raphaelite movement, this individual contributed significantly to poetry and visual art during the 19th century. Renowned for an emphasis on medieval themes, the individual created vivid works that incorporated lush color and intricate detail. Poetry often reflected personal experiences and emotional depth, with major collections including 'The Early Poems' and 'The Ballad and the Rose'. In addition to poetry, the individual produced many notable paintings, often featuring themes of love and desire, and was involved in art criticism, influencing contemporaries. The contributions to both art and literature were integral to establishing a distinct aesthetic movement that sought to challenge the artistic conventions of the time.

Continue Reading

DMX

Rapper and actor, famous for 'Ruff Ryders Anthem'
Born
December 18th, 1970 54 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2021 4 years ago — 50 years old

An influential rapper and actor from the United States, gained recognition in the late 1990s. Debut album 'It's Dark and Hell Is Hot' released in 1998 reached multi-platinum status. Featured hit singles like 'Party Up (Up In Here)' and 'X Gon' Give It to Ya.' Starred in films such as 'Belly' and 'Romeo Must Die.' Won multiple awards, including American Music Awards and Billboard Music Awards. Known for distinctive raspy voice and personal struggles, which were openly discussed in later interviews. Continued to perform and make music until death in 2021.

Continue Reading

Sidney Lumet

Film director with multiple acclaimed movies
Born
June 25th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2011 14 years ago — 86 years old

This director gained prominence for work in film, directing several critically acclaimed movies from the 1950s onwards. Notable for directing '12 Angry Men,' which was nominated for several Academy Awards, and 'Network,' which won four Academy Awards, including Best Screenplay. Other significant films include 'Dog Day Afternoon,' which received multiple nominations, and 'The Verdict,' showcasing strong performances and incisive storytelling. Lumet's filmography reflects a commitment to exploring complex social issues and character-driven narratives, earning recognition as a key figure in American cinema.

Continue Reading

Jacques Necker

Chief Minister to French Monarch
Born
September 30th, 1732 293 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1804 221 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent Swiss-French politician, served as Chief Minister to King Louis XVI of France. Necker held key financial positions and played a significant role during the early stages of the French Revolution. He advised on public finances and proposed reforms aimed at stabilizing the French economy. Necker faced opposition and was dismissed in 1781 but returned to office in 1788 amidst growing financial troubles. His efforts to address France's financial crisis were met with mixed reactions, leading to further political unrest in the country.

Continue Reading

François Rabelais

Renowned French writer and satirist
Born
1494 531 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1553 472 years ago — 59 years old

A French monk and scholar, contributed significantly to literature during the Renaissance. Best known for the satirical works, particularly the series of novels, "Gargantua and Pantagruel," which explore themes of humanism, education, and society. Rabelais employed humor and satirical elements to critique the social and religious conventions of the time. His writing reflects a deep understanding of classical texts and is characterized by a rich use of language and inventive storytelling. Engaged in various humanist circles, he influenced the literature of his era and laid foundational ideas for future European literature.

Continue Reading

Joseph B. Soloveitchik

Rabbi and philosopher of Jewish thought
Born
February 27th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1993 32 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Belarus, the figure contributed significantly to Jewish philosophy and scholarship in the United States. Educated at various institutions, engaged deeply with Talmudic studies and modern philosophy. Held a prominent position at Yeshiva University, where teachings shaped Orthodox Jewish education in America. Writings explored themes such as Jewish law, ethics, and theology, influencing generations of Jewish thinkers and practitioners.

Continue Reading