Peter I of Portugal

King of Portugal, writer of tragic poetry

Peter I of Portugal - King of Portugal, writer of tragic poetry
Born

April 8th, 1320
705 years ago

Died

January 18th, 1367
658 years ago — 46 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Portugal

Links & References

Ruled as King of Portugal from 1357 until death in 1367. Promoted romantic and chivalric values, with a strong emphasis on courtly love reflected in poetry. Established the Order of the Redemption of Captives. His reign saw the beginning of significant cultural and legal reforms. Known for the narrative of tragic love, especially the story of Inês de Castro, who became emblematic of Portuguese literature.

Established the Order of the Redemption of Captives

Wrote tragic poetry about Inês de Castro

Advanced legal reforms

Other People Born on April 8th

Michael Benton

Paleontologist known for vertebrate evolution
Born
April 8th, 1956 69 years ago

This Scottish-English paleontologist specialized in vertebrate evolution and the history of dinosaurs. Benton contributed extensively to the understanding of the archosaurian lineage and the diversity of prehistoric life. Significant publications include 'Vertebrate Palaeontology' which has served as a key reference in paleontology education. In addition to research, served as a professor at the University of Bristol and was involved in various public outreach and education initiatives.

Continue Reading

Albert Bustamante

American soldier and politician
Born
April 8th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 86 years old

Served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Major. Transitioned to a political career, representing Texas's 23rd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1985 to 1991. Focused on education and veteran affairs during tenure. Contributed to various legislative initiatives that supported education funding and military veterans.

Continue Reading

Donita Sparks

Singer-songwriter and guitarist of L7
Born
April 8th, 1963 62 years ago

Born in 1963, this American musician gained recognition as a co-founder and frontwoman of the alternative rock band L7. The band achieved prominence during the early 1990s, particularly noted for their energetic performances and significant role in the grunge music scene. The music often tackled themes of feminism, empowerment, and social issues. L7 released several albums, including the critically acclaimed 'Bricks Are Heavy,' which featured popular singles and helped define the sound of a generation. The band continues to tour and release new music, maintaining a loyal fan base.

Continue Reading

Franco Corelli

Italian tenor and stage performer
Born
April 8th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2003 21 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent Italian tenor and actor, born in 1921. Gained acclaim for powerful performances and a distinctive voice. Achieved success on both opera and concert stages, performing in major opera houses worldwide. Notable works include roles in operas such as 'La Bohème,' 'Tosca,' and 'Aida.' Also participated in numerous concert performances, showcasing a wide-ranging opera repertoire. Contributed to recordings that remain influential in the opera genre.

Continue Reading

Henry Sydney

English general and politician
Born
April 8th, 1641 384 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1704 321 years ago — 63 years old

Served as a general and politician during the 17th century. Held the title of 1st Earl of Romney. Acted as Secretary of State for the Northern Department. Played a significant role in military and political matters of the time, contributing to the governance and defense strategies of England.

Continue Reading

Christian IX of Denmark

King of Denmark and the Danish monarchy
Born
April 8th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1906 119 years ago — 87 years old

Reigned as the King of Denmark from 1863 until death in 1906. Oversaw the transition of the Danish monarchy during the Schleswig Wars. Succeeded by his son Frederik VIII, contributing to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. Played a notable role in European diplomacy during the late 19th century.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 18th

Melanie Appleby

English singer of Mel and Kim
Born
1966 59 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1990 35 years ago — 24 years old

A singer from England, rose to prominence in the late 1980s as part of the duo Mel and Kim. The duo achieved commercial success with hits like 'Showing Out (Get Fresh at the Weekend)' and 'Respectable', both reaching high positions on the UK Singles Chart. Their upbeat music and energetic performances contributed to the popularity of the Stock Aitken Waterman production team during that era. The duo disbanded when one member fell ill, and their music remains a notable part of the pop culture of that time.

Continue Reading

Adolf Butenandt

German biochemist and Nobel laureate
Born
March 24th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1995 30 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent biochemist contributed significantly to the understanding of sex hormones. Conducted pioneering work on the isolation and characterization of steroids, particularly estrone, from the urine of pregnant women. Served as a professor at the University of Tübingen and later the University of Munich, focusing on biochemical research and education. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1939 for research on hormones, specifically for work on sex hormones and their physiological effects.

Continue Reading

Peter Abrahams

South African-Jamaican author
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1919 in South Africa and later moving to Jamaica, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on the complexities of identity and race. His writing career spanned several decades, during which he produced numerous novels, essays, and short stories. Works often highlighted the struggles of individuals in a racially divided society. Achieved recognition for a blend of autobiographical and fictional narratives, often drawing from personal experiences and historical context. The body of work includes influential titles that addressed social issues, particularly in post-colonial contexts.

Continue Reading

Kathleen Norris

American journalist and author
Born
July 16th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1966 59 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent journalist and author during the early to mid-20th century, contributed extensively to literature with a focus on personal experiences and societal issues. Published numerous novels, essays, and autobiographical works. Became a significant figure in leading discussions on women's roles and family life in America. Her writing resonated widely with the public and received critical acclaim.

Continue Reading

Ron Luciano

Baseball umpire and TV personality
Born
June 28th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1995 30 years ago — 57 years old

Enjoyed a prominent career as a Major League Baseball umpire from 1967 to 1988. Umpired in two World Series and three All-Star Games. Gained recognition for a flamboyant style on the field and later transitioned into television, co-hosting the sports program 'The 20th Century.' Authored several books, including 'The Umpire Strikes Back,' which provides insight into the life of an umpire.

Continue Reading

Anton Anderledy

Swiss religious leader, Society of Jesus
Born
June 3rd, 1819 206 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1892 133 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent Swiss religious leader served as the 23rd Superior General of the Society of Jesus from 1885 until death in 1892. Focused on the expansion of Jesuit missions and education, worked to revitalize Jesuit institutions in Europe and overseas. Under leadership, the order experienced significant growth in numbers and influence, reestablishing its presence in several countries.

Continue Reading