Offa of Mercia

King of Mercia, Offa's Dyke

Offa of Mercia - King of Mercia, Offa's Dyke
Born

None
None years ago

Died

July 29th, 796
1229 years ago — None years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

Ruled Mercia from 757 to 796, establishing the kingdom as a dominant force in England. Offa strengthened the monarchy and engaged in diplomatic relations with neighboring kingdoms. Developed the famous Offa's Dyke, a significant earthwork marking the border with Wales. Initiated the silver penny currency system, influencing trade and economy.

Strengthened Mercia's political power

Established Offa's Dyke as a landmark

Introduced a standardized silver penny

Other People Who Died on July 29th

Pope Urban VIII

Pope and patron of Baroque art
Born
April 5th, 1568 457 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1644 381 years ago — 76 years old

Served as Pope from 1623 to 1644. Oversaw a period marked by significant artistic achievement and the consolidation of papal power. Urban VIII initiated numerous architectural projects in Rome, including the completion of St. Peter's Basilica, and his papacy is often associated with the flourishing of Baroque art, influencing artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini. He also formulated policies in response to the Thirty Years' War, which affected Europe during his tenure.

Continue Reading

Christian Benítez

Ecuadorian footballer; top league scorer
Born
May 1st, 1986 39 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2013 12 years ago — 27 years old

Played professional football primarily as a forward. Achieved prominence in various clubs, especially with El Nacional and Club América. Excelled in the Ecuador national team, contributing to their participation in the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Winning multiple league titles and cups in Ecuador and Mexico marked a significant part of the career. Recognized for exceptional scoring abilities and work ethic on the field.

Continue Reading

Luis Buñuel

Film director of surrealist cinema
Born
February 22nd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1983 42 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Spain and later becoming a Mexican citizen, a significant figure in 20th-century cinema emerged as a master of surrealism. Directed influential films which challenged conventional storytelling techniques and explored themes of desire, repression, and societal hypocrisy. Works include 'Un Chien Andalou', created in collaboration with Salvador Dali, and 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie', which received an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. His career spanned several decades, influencing both contemporary cinema and future filmmakers.

Continue Reading

Franklin H. Westervelt

American computer scientist and engineer
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
July 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old

Contributed significantly to computer science and engineering through academic endeavors. Worked extensively in the field of computer graphics and visualization. Served in various capacities at renowned institutions, focusing on the advancement of technology and education. Engaged in research that influenced the development of systems in computer science, specifically in image processing and visualization techniques.

Continue Reading

Adekunle Fajuyi

Nigerian colonel and military leader
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1966 59 years ago — 40 years old

Served as a colonel in the Nigerian Army and became the first military governor of Western Nigeria. Took leadership during a vital transitional period in Nigeria's post-independence history. Was involved in the political landscape during military coups. Died in a coup in 1966, becoming a significant figure in Nigerian military history.

Continue Reading

Jason Thirsk

Bass player for Pennywise band
Born
December 25th, 1967 57 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1996 29 years ago — 28 years old

A bass player contributed to the punk rock band Pennywise, which formed in 1988 in Hermosa Beach, California. Thirsk joined the band shortly after its inception, becoming an integral member. The group's self-titled album released in 1991 propelled them into the punk rock scene. The band's sound blended melodic elements with aggressive punk, leading to a dedicated following. Thirsk's songwriting skills added depth to the band's music. He participated in multiple studio albums and tours until his passing in 1996. His contributions to the punk genre, especially through his work with Pennywise, are notable within the music community.

Continue Reading