Pieter Willemsz. Verhoeff

Dutch sea captain and explorer

Pieter Willemsz. Verhoeff - Dutch sea captain and explorer
Born

1573
452 years ago

Died

May 22nd, 1609
416 years ago — 36 years old

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

Netherlands

Links & References

Served as a captain in the early 17th century, leading expeditions for the Dutch East India Company. Played a significant role in maritime exploration and trade in Asia, notably in the region that is now Indonesia. The expeditions contributed to the establishment of Dutch colonial interests and trade routes in the spice trade.

Commanded expeditions for the Dutch East India Company

Explored trade routes in Asia

Facilitated Dutch colonial trade in spices

Other People Who Died on May 22nd

Augusta Lady Gregory

Playwright and translator of Irish folklore
Born
March 15th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1932 93 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Anglo-Irish landowner, playwright, and translator contributed significantly to the Irish Literary Revival. Co-founded the Abbey Theatre alongside W.B. Yeats and Edward Martyn, providing a platform for Irish literature. Wrote several influential plays, including 'The High Broom' and 'Kincora,' which reflected Irish cultural themes and folklore. Engaged in the translation and adaptation of Irish myths and legends, making them accessible to a broader audience.

Continue Reading

Rita of Cascia

Italian nun and saint with miracles
Born
1381 644 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1457 568 years ago — 76 years old

A nun in the Augustinian order, dedicated life to prayer and service. Entered a convent after a troubled marriage that included familial strife. Renowned for exhibiting profound piety and for experiencing miracles, including healings. Her legacy includes becoming the patron saint of impossible causes, drawing many to seek her intercession. Canonized by Pope Leo XIII in 1900, she is venerated in the Catholic Church, particularly in Italy.

Continue Reading

John Derek

Actor and director of films
Born
August 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1998 27 years ago — 71 years old

An actor and director with a career spanning several decades. Breakthrough roles included performances in 'All That Heaven Allows' and 'The Ten Commandments'. Transitioned into directing with films such as 'Fantomas' and 'Once Before I Die'. Also worked as a cinematographer, contributing to the visual style of his projects. Retained a prominence in Hollywood during the 1960s and 1970s.

Continue Reading

Velimir Živojinović

Serbian actor and politician
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 2016 9 years ago — 83 years old

An actor and politician, significant contributions were made to the film industry and political life in Serbia. Gained recognition through roles in over 200 films, including notable works such as 'Battle of the Neretva' and 'The Wounded Fly'. Served as a prominent member of the National Assembly of Serbia. His acting career spanned several decades, highlighting a versatile approach to cinema that resonated with audiences, while his political efforts focused on cultural representations.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand II of the Two Sicilies

King of the Two Sicilies
Born
1810 215 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1859 166 years ago — 49 years old

Ruled as King of the Two Sicilies from 1830 until 1859. Governed during a period of significant political unrest and faced numerous revolutions. His reign included efforts to modernize the kingdom's infrastructure and military. Engaged in conflicts with revolutionary movements and foreign powers that sought to influence the region. Died in 1859, leaving a legacy shaped by the tumultuous events of 19th-century Italy.

Continue Reading

Mordecai Manuel Noah

Journalist and playwright with diplomacy
Born
July 14th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1851 174 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent journalist, playwright, and diplomat, contributed significantly to American literature and political discourse in the early 19th century. Authored several plays and became the first person to advocate for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in America. Served as a U.S. consul in Tunisia and actively engaged in fostering Jewish rights and identity. His works often reflected themes of nationalism and identity, influencing Jewish cultural discourse.

Continue Reading