Ottokar III of Styria

Duke of Styria and noted ruler

Ottokar III of Styria - Leaders & Politicians born 1124
Born

1124
901 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Austria

Links & References

Ruled as Duke of Styria from 1122 until death in 1164. Established the foundations for the later Duchy of Styria. Strengthened the power of the duchy and engaged in territorial expansion during the period. Played a significant role in regional politics and alliances within the Holy Roman Empire.

Ruled as Duke of Styria from 1122 to 1164

Expanded and consolidated Styrian territories

Other People Who Died on December 31st

Thomas Erastus

Swiss physician and theologian
Born
September 7th, 1524 501 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1583 441 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and theology during the Reformation. Practiced as a physician in Basel, emphasizing the importance of empirical observation in medical practice. Engaged in theological debates, particularly in relation to the authority of the church and the role of civil government in ecclesiastical matters. Authored works that sought to bridge the gap between Protestant doctrine and civil authority, advocating for the separation of church and state functions. Influence extended into discussions on the intersection of faith and reason, shaping early thoughts on the integration of scientific inquiry within Christian contexts.

Continue Reading

Woody Strode

American football player and actor
Born
July 25th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1994 30 years ago — 80 years old

Played in the National Football League as a linebacker and later transitioned to acting. Starred in films such as "Spartacus" and "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance". Achieved recognition for both athletic and cinematic contributions. Strode's career in football began in the early 1940s, playing for teams including the Los Angeles Rams and the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League. His film career spanned several decades, often portraying strong supporting characters that reflected his athletic background.

Continue Reading

Commodus

Roman Emperor during the 2nd century
Born
August 31st, 161 1864 years ago
Died
December 31st, 192 1832 years ago — 31 years old

Became emperor in 180 AD, ruling until 192 AD. His reign is often marked by a focus on personal entertainment and gladiatorial contests. Shifted some governmental responsibilities to favorites and was known for his eccentricities. His rule led to considerable instability within the Roman Empire that followed his assassination. Commodus was also depicted as a gladiator, participating in games and contests to showcase his prowess.

Continue Reading

Charles Koechlin

French composer and educator
Born
November 27th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1950 74 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1867, this composer contributed significantly to the early 20th-century music scene. Understanding modernist tendencies, he explored various styles, integrating elements of impressionism into his works. As an educator, he played a pivotal role in shaping future generations of musicians and composers. His prolific output includes orchestral, chamber, choral, and vocal music, marking him as a significant figure of the time. The work exhibited an innovative approach to harmony and texture, gaining attention from contemporaries and later musicians.

Continue Reading

William Christopher

Actor best known as Father Mulcahy
Born
October 20th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2016 8 years ago — 84 years old

An American actor and singer gained recognition for portraying Father Francis Mulcahy on the television series M*A*S*H from 1972 to 1983. The character was a Catholic chaplain providing support and guidance to fellow soldiers during the Korean War. Christopher also appeared in various other television shows, including The Love Boat and Growing Pains. His stage work included roles in productions such as The Fantasticks and Fiddler on the Roof. Christopher’s contributions to the entertainment industry extended beyond acting, as he also lent his voice to numerous commercials and educational films.

Continue Reading

Abdullah Hussain

Malaysian author of literary works
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2014 10 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to Malaysian literature through novels and essays. Gained prominence with literary works that explored themes of identity, culture, and history in Malaysia. Received accolades for contributions to Malay literature, including the prestigious Southeast Asia Write Award. His writings often reflected the complexities of modern Malaysian society, and he played a key role in the development of contemporary Malay narratives.

Continue Reading