Peter II of Portugal
King and Monarch of Portugal

Born
April 26th, 1648
377 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1706
318 years ago — 58 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Portugal
Links & References
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
Avi Nimni
Played as a forward for several clubs, including Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv. Achieved success in the Israeli Premier League and was a key player for the national team. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, managing multiple teams in Israeli football, including Maccabi Petah Tikva. His career in football spanned over two decades, with contributions both on and off the pitch.
Continue ReadingJimmy Giuffre
A clarinet player, saxophonist, and composer, contributed significantly to jazz music through innovative arrangements and compositions. Became a prominent figure in the cool jazz movement of the 1950s, incorporating elements of classical music into jazz. Developed a distinctive style that combined improvisation with structured compositions. Collaborated with notable musicians, producing influential recordings that shaped the genre.
Continue ReadingCornelia Ullrich
Competed in athletics, specializing in hurdles. Won a gold medal in the 100 meters hurdles at the 1987 World Championships. Participated in the 1988 Summer Olympics, reaching the semifinals in the same event. Achieved success at the national level, securing multiple championships in Germany during the 1980s.
Continue ReadingThomas Reid
A prominent figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, contributed significantly to philosophy, particularly in the fields of epistemology and moral philosophy. Established the philosophy of common sense, emphasizing immediate perception as a foundation for knowledge. Served as a professor at the University of Aberdeen and later at the University of Glasgow. Wrote influential works, including 'An Inquiry into the Human Mind on the Principles of Common Sense' and 'Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man'. Engaged in philosophical debates with other Enlightenment thinkers, shaping the discourse of the time.
Continue ReadingJean-Pierre Beltoise
Pursued a career as a racing driver and motorcycle racer. Competed in Formula One during the 1960s and 1970s. Achieved notable successes in various racing championships, including victories in endurance racing and Formula 2. Secured a memorable win at the 1972 Monaco Grand Prix, which showcased exceptional skill and prowess on the track. Transitioned to a successful career in motorcycle racing before dedicating time to his work as a racing school instructor.
Continue ReadingKosuke Fukudome
Played professional baseball primarily as an outfielder. Achieved significant success in Nippon Professional Baseball and Major League Baseball. Played for the Chunichi Dragons in Japan from 1999 to 2007 and later joined the Chicago Cubs in MLB, where he gained attention for his performance. Contributed to Chunichi Dragons winning the Central League pennant in 2004 and helped the Cubs in their playoff appearances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 9th
Enoch L. Johnson
Played a significant role in organized crime in New Jersey during the mid-20th century. Led the North Jersey faction of the Genovese crime family and was involved in various illegal activities, including extortion, racketeering, and loan sharking. His leadership contributed to the expansion and consolidation of mob operations in the region. Johnson's influence extended over local unions and businesses, ensuring significant control over lucrative sectors such as construction and labor. In 1956, he was convicted on charges of conspiracy, which marked a notable moment in the law enforcement efforts against organized crime.
Continue ReadingLeon Jaworski
Co-founded the law firm Fulbright & Jaworski, which became one of the largest in the United States. Played a significant role as the Watergate Special Prosecutor during the early 1970s, overseeing the investigation into the Watergate scandal. Jaworski's efforts led to the inquiry into President Richard Nixon's involvement in the affair. Contributed to legal ethics and advocacy throughout a lengthy legal career. Received various accolades for legal service and leadership in the legal community.
Continue ReadingNikki Giovanni
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 ReadingGertrude of Brunswick
Born into the noble family of Brunswick, served as Markgräfin of Meißen. Became the wife of King Henry IV of Germany, contributing to the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire. Played a significant role in the dynasty's succession and stability during a tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingVincenzo Coronelli
Born in Italy, a monk and cosmographer contributed significantly to the fields of cartography and globe-making during the late 17th century. Founded the Accademia Cosmografica dell'Index in Venice in 1680, promoting geographical knowledge and scientific discussion. Produced detailed maps, atlases, and globes, showcasing the world and celestial spheres. Naturalistically depicted territories and navigational routes, influencing future cartographers and explorers.
Continue ReadingSergey Konenkov
Born in Russia, a prominent sculptor developed a distinctive style blending realism and modernism. Studied at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture. Created numerous sculptures in various materials, including marble and bronze. Became an influential figure in the Russian art scene and was associated with various art movements of the early 20th century. His works reflected a deep understanding of human emotion and form, earning recognition and admiration in both Russia and abroad. Contributed to the cultural heritage of the Soviet Union through his art before emigrating later in life.
Continue Reading