Peter II of Portugal
King and Monarch of Portugal
Ruled as king from 1683 until death in 1706. Oversaw a period of political challenges, including conflicts with France. Strengthened alliances with England and other European powers. Was involved in the War of the Spanish Succession, aligning Portugal with Britain against France and Spain. Achieved significant territorial gains in Brazil during the reign. Worked on reforms within the administration, focusing on improving governance and economic stability.
Ruled Portugal during the War of the Spanish Succession
Strengthened alliances with England
Gained territorial expansion in Brazil
Other People Born on April 26th
Caro Emerald
Pop and jazz singer, 'Deleted Scenes from the Cutting Room Floor'
Born
April 26th, 1981 44 years ago
A pop and jazz singer emerged in the late 2000s. Debuted with the album 'Deleted Scenes from the Cutting Room Floor' in 2010, which topped the Dutch charts for weeks. This album included hit singles that gained significant popularity in the Netherlands and beyond. Continued to release successful albums, blending retro and modern sounds, gaining a large following across Europe.
Continue ReadingJoey Wendle
Baseball player, 2019 Gold Glove winner
Born
April 26th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional baseball player, primarily played as an infielder. Career began with the Oakland Athletics before moving to the Tampa Bay Rays. Achieved success in the 2019 season, showcasing defensive skills that earned a Gold Glove Award. Contributed consistently in multiple seasons with a focus on batting average and versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingNovlene Williams-Mills
Jamaican sprinter with Olympic medals
Born
April 26th, 1982 43 years ago
A Jamaican sprinter who specialized in the 400 meters. Competed in multiple Olympic Games and World Championships. Achieved notable success in relay events. Secured a bronze medal in the 4x400 meters relay at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Also claimed silver in the 4x400 meters relay at the 2012 London Olympics.
Continue ReadingPeter Handscomb
Australian cricketer and Test player
Born
April 26th, 1991 34 years ago
Debuted for the Australian national cricket team in 2016. Played primarily as a middle-order batsman. Part of the team during the 2017-2018 Ashes series, contributing to the team's performance against England. Represented various domestic teams including Victoria and the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League. Known for playing pivotal innings in both Test and limited-overs formats.
Continue ReadingDaniil Kvyat
Formula 1 Racing Driver
Born
April 26th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in April 1994, a Russian racing driver competed in Formula 1 from 2014 to 2020. Began racing at a young age, making a noticeable mark in karting before advancing to single-seaters. Joined the Toro Rosso team, debuting in 2014, and later drove for Red Bull Racing. Achieved notable results, including multiple podium finishes and points-scoring positions. Also returned to Toro Rosso in 2019, showcasing skill in various circuits throughout his career.
Continue ReadingMitch Rein
Rugby league player for St. George Illawarra
Born
April 26th, 1990 35 years ago
Played as a hooker in rugby league, predominantly for St. George Illawarra Dragons in the National Rugby League (NRL). Rein began his professional career in 2010 and gained recognition for his strong defensive skills and contributions to the team's performance. He also played for the Gold Coast Titans later in his career. In addition to club commitments, he represented New South Wales Country in representative matches.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 9th
Georges Dufrénoy
French painter and academic
Born
June 20th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1943 82 years ago — 73 years old
A painter and academic active in the early to mid-20th century. Associated with the Fauvism movement, contributed to the development of modern French painting. Served as a professor at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, influencing a generation of artists. Engaged with various artistic styles, maintaining a focus on landscape and portrait painting throughout the career.
Continue ReadingNikki Giovanni
Poet and activist; authored 'Black Feeling'
Born
June 7th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1943, this American poet and writer contributed significantly to contemporary literature and civil rights. The author's work often explores themes of race, gender, and identity, reflecting the African American experience. Giovanni's poetry first gained attention with the release of 'Black Feeling, Black Talk' in 1968. Throughout her career, she has published numerous collections, essays, and children's books, establishing a prominent voice in literature. Giovanni has also served as a professor at Virginia Tech, influencing a new generation of writers and activists through her teachings and public speaking engagements.
Continue ReadingJovit Baldivino
Singer and actor, champion of talent show
Born
October 16th, 1993 32 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2022 3 years ago — 29 years old
Gained fame after winning a popular talent competition in the Philippines, showcasing musical talent and charisma. Released hit songs that resonated with audiences, including 'Paano Na Kaya'. Opened doors in the entertainment industry as a performer in music and acting, appearing in various television shows and concert performances. Joined the cast of popular programs, contributing to his recognition in both music and acting spheres.
Continue ReadingJulio Terrazas Sandoval
Bolivian cardinal and religious leader
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and as the Archbishop of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Contributed to the spiritual and social life of Bolivia, overseeing various diocesan activities and initiatives. Participated in the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013, marking a significant moment in the church's history. Dedicated efforts to address social issues within Bolivia, promoting education and community development.
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Archaeologist known for early hominids
Born
February 6th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
An archaeologist and anthropologist, significant contributions to the discovery of early hominid fossils were made. Conducted extensive research at Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania, where the first fossilized footprints of early hominids were discovered. Developed techniques for studying human evolution and excavated several notable prehistoric sites. Authored numerous publications detailing findings in paleoanthropology, influencing the field's development.
Continue ReadingSpeedy Duncan
American football player, 1969 Pro Bowler
Born
August 10th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2021 4 years ago — 79 years old
A professional American football player played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). Duncan played for the San Diego Chargers, where he contributed significantly to the team’s defense. Over the course of his career, he intercepted numerous passes and returned kicks, showcasing notable speed and agility on the field. He had a standout season in 1969, earning a trip to the Pro Bowl, which is awarded to the league's top players. His time in the NFL left a lasting impression, particularly during his years with the Chargers.
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