Millard Fillmore
13th President of the United States
Served as the 13th President of the United States from 1850 to 1853. Assumed presidency following the death of Zachary Taylor. Advocated for the Compromise of 1850, a series of legislation aimed at easing sectional tensions over slavery. Supported the enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Act. Founded the University at Buffalo, enhancing higher education in New York.
Signed the Compromise of 1850 into law
Enforced the Fugitive Slave Act
Founded the University at Buffalo
Other People Born on January 7th
Charles Péguy
French poet and journalist
Born
January 7th, 1873 153 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1914 111 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent poet and journalist from France, contributed significantly to French literature and political thought. Péguy founded the publishing house La Société des Amis de l'Art where many of his works were published. His writings reflect a deep engagement with themes of faith, nationalism, and social justice. Best works include the poem 'Le Portico' and the play 'Mystère de la Charité de Jeanne d'Arc'. He was also involved in the Dreyfus affair, standing firm against anti-Semitism. Péguy died in World War I, serving as a poilu, and left a lasting legacy in French literary and philosophical circles.
Continue ReadingWayne Routledge
English footballer and player for Swansea City
Born
January 7th, 1985 41 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a winger from 2003 onward. Started career at Crystal Palace, where debut occurred at 18 years old. Had spells at clubs such as Southampton, Queens Park Rangers, and Swansea City. Achieved promotion with both QPR and Swansea City to the Premier League. Contributed to Swansea City's victory in the 2013 League Cup, marking the club's first major trophy. Retired from professional football in 2021.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Bayldon
English actor in 'Catweazle'
Born
January 7th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 93 years old
An English actor, significant contributions to television and film occurred throughout a prolific career. Prominent roles included the character Catweazle in the children's television series 'Catweazle,' which aired from 1970 to 1971. This performance captured the charm of the titular character, a wizard from the Middle Ages who finds himself in the modern world. Other noteworthy appearances included roles in 'The Black Adder' and 'The Phantom of the Opera.' In addition to television, contributions to theatre and film enriched the performing arts landscape.
Continue ReadingWilliam Clarence Matthews
Baseball player and lawyer, coached Red Sox
Born
January 7th, 1877 149 years ago
Died
1928 98 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1877, this individual played Major League Baseball as a shortstop for the Boston Red Sox. Career spanned from 1901 to 1902. In addition to his athletic career, this person also pursued a profession in law. After leaving professional baseball, this individual contributed to the game as a coach. The combination of athletics and legal expertise marked a unique pathway during a time when few were able to blend sports and law.
Continue ReadingJoseph Bonaparte
Italian King and older brother of Napoleon
Born
January 7th, 1768 258 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1844 181 years ago — 76 years old
An Italian nobleman, served as King of Naples from 1806 to 1808 and King of Spain from 1808 to 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars. Appointed by his brother Napoleon Bonaparte, implemented several administrative reforms in Spain. After the fall of his reign, lived in exile in various countries including the United States, where he resided for many years.
Continue ReadingHeinrich von Stephan
German postal reformer and UPU founder
Born
January 7th, 1831 195 years ago
Died
1897 129 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent figure in the international postal system, a German postman played a crucial role in founding the Universal Postal Union in 1874. This organization standardized international mail services, improving communication across borders. His tenure as the Director of the German Postal Service was marked by significant reforms, leading to the modernization of postal operations in Germany. Emphasizing the importance of efficient postal services, he advocated for international cooperation among nations to enhance mail delivery systems globally.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 8th
Ray Nitschke
Professional American football linebacker
Born
December 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1998 28 years ago — 61 years old
A linebacker, achieved prominence in professional American football during the 1960s and 1970s. Played for the Green Bay Packers from 1958 to 1972. Contributed significantly to the team's success in winning the first two Super Bowls, Super Bowl I and Super Bowl II. Renowned for aggressive playing style and leadership on the field. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978.
Continue ReadingAslan Maskhadov
Chechen commander and politician
Born
September 21st, 1951 74 years ago
Died
March 8th, 2005 21 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent figure in the Chechen conflict, leadership was established during the First Chechen War. Elected as the President of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria in 1997, played a significant role in the struggle for Chechen independence. Continued to lead during the Second Chechen War and was a key negotiator during peace talks. Maskhadov's efforts in advocating for Chechen sovereignty were recognized despite ongoing conflicts.
Continue ReadingFerdinand von Zeppelin
Airship designer and businessman
Born
July 8th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1917 109 years ago — 78 years old
A German general and businessman, contributed significantly to the development of rigid airships in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Established the Zeppelin Company, which produced airships that were widely used for passenger transport and military reconnaissance. Demonstrated the practicality of air travel with the successful launch of the LZ 1 in 1900. The design and engineering principles laid the groundwork for future developments in aviation, influencing both commercial and military air travel.
Continue ReadingAdela of Normandy
Countess of Blois by marriage
Died
March 8th, 1137 889 years ago — None years old
Born around 1067, contributed to the consolidation of the territories associated with her husband, the Count of Blois. Engaged in the politics of her time, supporting the interests of her family and allies. Played a significant role in the governance of the county and participated in several important ecclesiastical and political events during her lifetime. Adela was also known for her patronage of religious institutions.
Continue ReadingJohn Ericsson
Swedish-American engineer and inventor
Born
July 31st, 1803 222 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1889 137 years ago — 85 years old
Swedish-American engineer and inventor contributed significantly to naval engineering and mechanical design. Developed the first practical marine screw propeller, which transformed naval architecture. Engineered the ironclad warship USS Monitor during the American Civil War, notable for its battle against the CSS Virginia. His work in steam power included the design of various ships and improvements in engine efficiency.
Continue ReadingHarold Lloyd
Silent film actor and director of comedies
Born
April 20th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1971 55 years ago — 77 years old
An influential American actor, director, and producer in the silent film era. Began career in the early 1900s, achieving considerable fame through the use of elaborate stunts and comedy. Co-founded the production company Harold Lloyd Films, which produced several successful films. Iconic works include 'Safety Last!' and 'The Freshman', both showcasing innovative film techniques and comedic timing. Transitioned successfully to sound films, maintaining a prominent presence until the decline of silent cinema. His legacy is marked by a distinct style that influenced generations of filmmakers and comedians.
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