Pedro Calungsod
Filipino missionary and saint
A missionary who worked in the Philippines during the 17th century. Joined Spanish Jesuits in their efforts to convert indigenous peoples to Christianity. Alongside Diego Luis de San Vitores, engaged in missionary work on the island of Guam. Perished in 1672 due to hostility from local inhabitants while spreading the faith. Canonized by the Catholic Church in 2012.
Conducted missionary work in Guam
Canonized as a saint in 2012
Other People Born on July 21st
Yuka Sato
Javelin thrower; Olympic competitor
Born
July 21st, 1992 33 years ago
Competed in women's javelin throw, representing Japan. Achieved notable success in international competitions, including participation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Secured several national titles and set personal bests, contributing to the prominence of javelin throw in Japan. Known for rigorous training and dedication to the sport, earning respect within the athletics community.
Continue ReadingJulia Beljajeva
Épée Fencer, Olympic Medalist
Born
July 21st, 1992 33 years ago
An accomplished épée fencer, hailing from Estonia, competed in multiple international competitions. Gained recognition for participating in the 2012 London Olympics, securing a bronze medal in the women's team épée event. Additionally, earned medals at the European Fencing Championships and represented Estonia at various World Cups, showcasing skill and determination on the international stage.
Continue ReadingPope Sixtus IV
Pope and patron of the arts
Born
July 21st, 1414 611 years ago
Died
1484 542 years ago — 70 years old
Became Pope in 1471, serving until 1484. Played a significant role in the development of the Vatican's artistic heritage, commissioning famous works from artists like Michelangelo. Established the Sistine Chapel and contributed to its completion, which remains a landmark of Renaissance art. Influenced the Catholic Church's political landscape during the Renaissance era, negotiating treaties and supporting various fortifications.
Continue ReadingNorman Jewison
Canadian film director and producer
Born
July 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2024 2 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent film director and producer, contributed significantly to the cinematic landscape through various acclaimed projects. Established a reputation for creating films that reflect social issues. Directed notable works such as 'In the Heat of the Night,' which addressed race relations, and 'Fiddler on the Roof,' adapting the Broadway musical for the screen. Received several prestigious accolades, including Academy Award nominations and a Governor General's Performing Arts Award.
Continue ReadingRachael Flatt
American figure skater and champion
Born
July 21st, 1992 33 years ago
Competed in figure skating, achieving significant success on the national and international stages. Won the 2010 U.S. Figure Skating Championships and later represented the United States at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Earned multiple titles at international competitions. Retired from competitive skating and moved into coaching and mentoring young skaters.
Continue ReadingCharlotte de Witte
Belgian DJ and record producer
Born
July 21st, 1992 33 years ago
Gained recognition in the techno music scene, with a distinctive style blending hypnotic beats and dark tones. Released several acclaimed EPs, including "Selected" and "Return to Nowhere," which solidified a reputation in electronic music. Has performed at prominent festivals such as Tomorrowland and Awakenings Festival. Established a record label named KNTXT, promoting emerging techno artists.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 2nd
Ferdinand III
Holy Roman Emperor during Thirty Years' War
Born
July 13th, 1608 417 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1657 368 years ago — 48 years old
Ascended to the position of Holy Roman Emperor in 1637, governed during a tumultuous period marked by the Thirty Years' War. Efforts included facilitating peace negotiations that culminated in the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, which ended the conflict. Managed the complexities of empire governance, facing challenges from various Protestant and Catholic factions. Advocated for a balance of power within the empire amidst rising tensions between European states. Oversaw cultural developments and fortifications within the empire's territories.
Continue ReadingFred
Brazilian footballer, 2013 Copa do Mundo
Born
March 5th, 1993 32 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 20 years old
This Brazilian footballer played as a midfielder. Debuted professionally in 2010 with the club América Mineiro. Transferred to the European club Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013, where achieved significant success, including winning multiple league titles and the UEFA Cup in 2010. Returned to Brazil in 2018, joining the club Fluminense. Represented Brazil in international competitions, contributing to the national team during the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingAhmed Vefik Pasha
Greek playwright and Ottoman Grand Vizier
Born
July 3rd, 1823 202 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1891 134 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent literary figure and politician, served as the 249th Grand Vizier of the Ottoman Empire. Contributed significantly to Turkish theatre, with translations and adaptations of foreign works. Played a crucial role in the modernization of the Ottoman administration and education system. Actively participated in political reforms during a transformative period for the empire.
Continue ReadingC. S. Forester
English novelist, author of Horatio Hornblower
Born
August 27th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1966 59 years ago — 66 years old
An English novelist produced numerous historical adventure novels. Most recognized for the Horatio Hornblower series, which follows the naval career of a British Royal Navy officer during the Napoleonic Wars. The series included several titles, with 'Mr. Midshipman Hornblower' being the first published in 1950. Additionally, wrote 'The African Queen,' which was later adapted into a successful film starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. Forester's works contributed significantly to the naval fiction genre, gaining widespread readership during his lifetime.
Continue ReadingJohann Heinrich Jung
German author and academic
Born
September 12th, 1740 285 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1817 208 years ago — 76 years old
An author and academic active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Wrote influential works that contributed to German literature and thought. Engaged in philosophical discussions and literary criticism, shaping the landscape of German Romanticism. Involved in educational reforms and served in various academic roles throughout his career.
Continue ReadingRobert H. Schuller
Pastor and author of 'Hour of Power'
Born
September 16th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Founded the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California. Created and hosted the television program 'Hour of Power', which became one of the most-viewed religious programs in the world. Authored numerous books, including 'Tough Times Never Last, But Tough People Do!' and 'Moving Mountains'. Schuller promoted positive thinking and the possibility of personal transformation through faith. Established the Schuller Institute for Successful Aging.
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