Peter II of Aragon
King of Aragon and Count of Barcelona
Born
1174
852 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Spain
Links & References
Ruled as King of Aragon from 1196 until death in 1213. Emphasized territorial expansion and influence in the Mediterranean region. Engaged in the political and military conflicts of the time to strengthen Aragon's position. Played a critical role in the War of the Albigenses, opposing the expansion of Catharism in southern France. Died during the Battle of Muret, a significant conflict in which Aragon suffered a defeat against the forces of Simon de Montfort.
Increased Aragon's territorial holdings
Fell in the Battle of Muret
Other People Who Died on September 12th
Sarah Frances Whiting
American physicist and astronomer
Born
August 23rd, 1847 178 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1927 98 years ago — 80 years old
Contributions in physics and astronomy included work on the properties of spectral lines and the development of laboratory methods for the study of light. Served as director of the observatory at Wellesley College and became the first woman to hold such a position in the United States. Additionally, played a role in the early education of women in science, mentoring students and advocating for women's involvement in higher education in scientific fields.
Continue ReadingWilly Ronis
French photographer of urban life
Born
August 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2009 16 years ago — 99 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of photography, particularly in capturing everyday life in post-war France. Early works in the 1930s focused on the Parisian working class, presenting a humanistic perspective through photography. Achieved great recognition with the publication of the book 'Paris de ma fenêtre' in 1954, which showcased intimate and poignant images of the city and its inhabitants. His style blended documentary and artistic photography, influencing generations of photographers. Worked extensively throughout his career and is considered one of the key figures in French humanist photography.
Continue ReadingLewis Stone
American actor known for 'Ben-Hur'
Born
November 15th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1953 72 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1879, this American actor gained prominence in the film industry during the silent era and transitioned successfully to sound films. Achieved recognition for the role of Judd in the 1925 adaptation of 'Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ'. Made significant contributions to numerous films throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Later, played the role of Judge Hardy in the popular 'Andy Hardy' film series, which starred Mickey Rooney. The professional career spanned several decades until the actor's death in 1969.
Continue ReadingClément Marot
French poet of the Renaissance era
Born
November 23rd, 1496 529 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1544 481 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent poet during the French Renaissance, contributed to the development of French literature through lyrical poetry and translations of classical works. Associated with the court of King Francis I, Marot produced a variety of poems that showcased his skill in the rondeau form. His writings explored themes of love, human experience, and social commentary. His translation of the Psalms into French made a significant impact on religious and secular poetry, influencing both contemporaries and later poets. Marot's work helped pave the way for future literary movements in France.
Continue ReadingGebhard Leberecht von Blücher
German field marshal at Waterloo
Born
December 16th, 1742 283 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1819 206 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1742, military service began at an early age, engaging in various campaigns during the Napoleonic Wars. Achieved the rank of field marshal, leading Prussian forces in critical battles. Played a pivotal role in the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, collaborating with allied forces to defeat Napoleon Bonaparte. Known for strategic acumen, leadership under pressure, and commitment to military duty.
Continue ReadingEdith Windsor
LGBT rights activist and DOMA plaintiff
Born
June 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 88 years old
An activist focused on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights, played a crucial role in landmark legal battles for marriage equality in the United States. Windsor challenged the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) after the death of her spouse, sparking significant changes in federal recognition of same-sex marriage. The Supreme Court ruled in her favor in 2013, effectively striking down DOMA. Her case became a catalyst for the legalization of same-sex marriage across the nation, influencing public policy and discourse on LGBTQ+ rights.
Continue Reading