Melchior de Polignac

French cardinal and poet

Melchior de Polignac - French cardinal and poet
Born

October 11th, 1661
364 years ago

Died

November 20th, 1742
282 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

Born in 1661, a prominent French cardinal and poet contributed significantly to literature and church affairs. His work 'Anti-Lucretius', a philosophical poem, showcased influences from classical thought and addressed the nature of divine providence. De Polignac played a critical role within the Catholic Church, holding various ecclesiastical positions and advocating for religious and cultural matters during his lifetime. His writings continued to be studied for their poetic beauty and intellectual depth.

Authored 'Anti-Lucretius'

Served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church

Other People Born on October 11th

Julius Kuperjanov

Estonian lieutenant in the War of Independence
Born
October 11th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1919 106 years ago — 24 years old

Served as a lieutenant during the Estonian War of Independence, contributing to the establishment of Estonia as an independent nation. Participated in significant battles against Soviet forces, demonstrating leadership and strategic capabilities. Kuperjanov was instrumental in organizing and training troops, playing a critical role in the military efforts of the newly formed Estonian state. His service and dedication to Estonia's independence are commemorated.

Continue Reading

Dmitri Young

Baseball player and radio host
Born
October 11th, 1973 52 years ago

This individual played in Major League Baseball for the St. Louis Cardinals, Cincinnati Reds, Detroit Tigers, and Washington Nationals. Made All-Star appearances in 2003 and 2005, exhibiting proficiency as a left-handed hitter. Transitioned to radio hosting after retiring from baseball, contributing to sports talk and analysis. Engaged in community and charitable work during and after the playing career.

Continue Reading

Nesta Carter

Jamaican sprinter, 4x100m relay Olympic Gold
Born
October 11th, 1985 40 years ago

Competed in sprinting events, focusing on the 100 meters and the 4x100 meters relay. Achieved major success at the Olympic Games, contributing to Jamaica's dominance in sprinting. Participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics where the relay team secured the gold medal, marking a highlight of his athletic career. Also earned medals at World Championships, solidifying a prominent presence in international athletics.

Continue Reading

Charles Orlando

Dauphin of France, French noble
Born
October 11th, 1492 533 years ago
Died
1495 530 years ago — 3 years old

Born in 1492, he became the Dauphin of France during a period marked by political instability. As the son of King Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany, he was expected to inherit the throne. His brief life was overshadowed by the political maneuvers of his family and the broader context of the French monarchy. A historic figure, he was involved in the royal court and was known for the challenges that came with his title. His early death at the age of 24 left a mark on the succession of the French crown.

Continue Reading

Trevor Donovan

Actor notable for '90210'
Born
October 11th, 1978 47 years ago

An actor gained recognition for work in television. Rose to prominence with a leading role in the series '90210'. Also appeared in various films and television shows throughout the career, displaying a range of acting abilities.

Continue Reading

Hans E. Kinck

Norwegian philologist and author
Born
October 11th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
October 13th, 1926 99 years ago — 61 years old

A philologist and author contributed to the study of literature and language. Focused on the transition of Norwegian folklore and the development of modern Norwegian literature. Writings included novels and essays that explored the cultural and historical aspects of Norway. Kinck's works displayed a deep understanding of language, often intertwining literary themes with the exploration of identity and nationality.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 20th

William Bliss Baker

American painter with landscape works
Born
November 27th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1886 138 years ago — 26 years old

An American painter active in the late 19th century, recognized for contributions to landscape painting. His works often depicted serene natural scenes and reflected the influence of the Hudson River School. Baker's time spent in the Adirondacks inspired many of his works, showcasing the beauty of American wilderness. He exhibited extensively, gaining attention in art circles of the time and securing a place in the field of American art.

Continue Reading

John Lyly

English poet and courtier
Died
November 20th, 1606 418 years ago — None years old

A prominent figure in the court of Queen Elizabeth I, this poet and playwright produced significant works in English literature. Best recognized for the comedic play 'Endymion', which blended elements of myth and romance, also authored the prose work 'Euphues', noted for its style and influence on Elizabethan literature. Contributions to the development of English drama helped shape the theatrical landscape of the time.

Continue Reading

Karel Dujardin

Dutch Golden Age painter, 'The Menagerie'
Born
1622 403 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1678 346 years ago — 56 years old

A Dutch painter specialized in genre scenes and landscapes during the Golden Age. Contributions included numerous works that featured animals and pastoral landscapes. Created significant paintings, especially noted for the depiction of exotic animals and their environments, representing the fascination of the time with nature and the exotic. Dujardin was part of the artistic community in Amsterdam, which flourished in the 17th century, showcasing talent in capturing light and atmosphere.

Continue Reading

Ian Smith

Prime Minister of Rhodesia
Born
April 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2007 17 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Rhodesia from 1965 to 1979, leading the country during its Unilateral Declaration of Independence from Britain. Played a crucial role in the Rhodesian Bush War, a conflict between the white-minority government and black nationalist movements. Advocated for minority rule and resistance against majority governance and was involved in negotiations that ultimately led to the end of white-minority rule. After leaving office, resided in South Africa.

Continue Reading

Charles Jennens

English landowner and arts patron
Died
November 20th, 1773 251 years ago — None years old

An English landowner and prominent patron of the arts, contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of the 18th century. Actively supported composers and musicians, fostering their creative endeavors. Closely associated with George Frideric Handel, collaborated on several projects that shaped the musical culture of the time, including the creation of oratorios. Maintained a keen interest in literature and music, promoting various artistic expressions.

Continue Reading

Léon Cogniet

French painter and portrait artist
Born
1794 231 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1880 144 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent French painter active in the 19th century, gained recognition for portraits and historical scenes. Studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and exhibited at the Salon, attracting attention for contributions to the avant-garde art movement. Worked mainly in oil on canvas, focusing on figurative works. Cogniet's artistic style combined neoclassical elements with realism, exemplifying the transition between these movements. Later became a professor at the École des Beaux-Arts, influencing a new generation of artists.

Continue Reading