Matthias Corvinus
Hungarian king with a strong rule

Born
February 23rd, 1443
582 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1490
535 years ago — 47 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Hungary
Links & References
Reigned as King of Hungary from 1458 to 1490. Led military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire and strengthened the kingdom's defenses. Established a well-rounded court in Buda and promoted culture, including founding the library known as the Bibliotheca Corviniana, one of the largest Renaissance libraries in Europe. Implemented reforms to improve governance and taxation, enhancing royal authority.
Established the Bibliotheca Corviniana
Led campaigns against the Ottoman Empire
Other People Born on February 23rd
Debbie Friedman
A prominent singer-songwriter, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary Jewish music. Starting in the 1970s, created and popularized a repertoire of original melodies that became integral to Jewish worship and education. Works often featured themes of spirituality and community, resonating within synagogues across the United States and beyond. Released numerous albums, including 'Sing Unto God' and 'The Gift of Music,' solidifying a prominent place in the genre. Engaged in educational initiatives, training future generations in the tradition of Jewish song.
Continue ReadingDaymond John
An American fashion designer and businessman founded a clothing brand that revolutionized streetwear in the 1990s. Established FUBU, an acronym for 'For Us, By Us,' which became a significant player in urban fashion culture. FUBU garnered widespread popularity and success, resulting in a multi-million dollar business. John expanded his influence by appearing as an investor on the television series 'Shark Tank,' where he offered guidance and financial support to budding entrepreneurs.
Continue ReadingNorman Taurog
Directed numerous films during a prolific career, contributing to the entertainment industry for over five decades. Taurog's work reflects a range of genres, with significant involvement in musicals and comedies. Directed the Elvis Presley films 'Jailhouse Rock' and 'Blue Hawaii', which became iconic in the rock and roll era. Served as a director for multiple successful films which achieved commercial success.
Continue ReadingClayton Anderson
An engineer and astronaut, made significant contributions to NASA's space exploration missions. Completed two spaceflights, first on STS-131 in 2010 and later on STS-135 in 2011. Brought extensive expertise in mechanical and aerospace engineering to various programs during tenure at NASA.
Continue ReadingOnofrio Panvinio
Born in Italy in 1529, contributed significantly to historical literature and the understanding of Rome's past. Worked as a cleric and became a prominent figure in the study of historical events and figures, particularly focusing on the history of the Church. Wrote extensively, with major works that chronicled the history of prominent families and events in Italy. His writings provided insights into the political and cultural landscape of the time, influencing later historians. His careful documentation and analysis helped establish a foundation for modern historical methodologies.
Continue ReadingCasimir Funk
A Polish biochemist contributed to the study of vitamins and their essential role in human health. Identified and named the term 'vitamin' in 1912, proposing that certain dietary substances were vital for preventing diseases. Conducted significant research on nutritional deficiencies and their effects, particularly in relation to beriberi and pellagra. His work laid foundational concepts in biochemistry and nutrition, enhancing understanding of dietary needs.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 6th
Florence Earle Coates
A prominent American poet, produced numerous volumes of poetry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Authored collections such as 'The Silver Crown' and 'The Tapestry of Life'. Contributed to various literary magazines and anthologies. Her work often explored themes of nature, love, and spirituality. Active in literary circles and associated with the Philadelphia arts community.
Continue ReadingRay Charles
A significant figure in the development of soul music, composed and performed a blend of rhythm and blues, gospel, and jazz. Gained prominence in the 1950s and went on to achieve widespread acclaim throughout the 20th century. Notable works include hit songs like "Georgia on My Mind" and "Hit the Road Jack." Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 and also received numerous Grammy Awards for contributions to music.
Continue ReadingRed Norvo
A prominent American vibraphone player and composer, this musician played a significant role in the development of jazz. Active from the 1920s through the 1980s, collaborated with various jazz greats, including Charlie Parker and Billie Holiday. Contributed to the popularization of the vibraphone in jazz music and was involved in bands such as the Red Norvo Trio. Recorded numerous albums that showcased innovative approaches to rhythm and improvisation.
Continue ReadingJames Best
An American actor, director, and screenwriter, celebrated for significant contributions to television and film. Best played Rosco P. Coltrane in the popular television series 'The Dukes of Hazzard'. His career spanned several decades, featuring performances in various television shows and films, with numerous appearances in westerns. In addition to acting, Best directed several episodes of television series. He also had a background in military service and used his experiences to inform his work in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingRainier III
Ruled as Prince of Monaco from 1949 until 2005. Focused on modernizing the principality and promoting tourism. Played a crucial role in establishing Monaco as a renowned destination for luxury and gambling. Maintained the independence of Monaco while fostering economic growth. Married American actress Grace Kelly, leading to increased global attention on the principality.
Continue ReadingDavid Blondel
Served as a minister and contributed significantly to historical scholarship in France. Engaged in theological debates and wrote extensively on history and religion. His works, which include notable texts on ecclesiastical history, have provided insights into the Protestant Reformation and the development of religious thought in 17th-century France.
Continue Reading