Pope Alexander VII
Papal leadership during the 17th century
Served as pope from 1655 until death in 1667. Oversaw significant artistic patronage in the Baroque period, including the completion of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Strengthened the authority of the papacy amidst the challenges of the Protestant Reformation and various political conflicts in Europe. Promoted the Catholic Church's interests in several territories, particularly in France and the Holy Roman Empire.
Completed the dome of St. Peter's Basilica
Commissioned Bernini's designs in the Vatican
Supported the Inquisition against heresy
Other People Born on February 13th
Vitinha
Portuguese Footballer with Porto FC
Born
February 13th, 2000 25 years ago
A professional footballer, born in Portugal, plays as a midfielder. Developed through various youth academies, signed with FC Porto. Gained attention for skillful play and technical abilities on the field. Contributed to FC Porto's successes in domestic competitions, showcasing exceptional performance during critical matches and tournaments.
Continue ReadingFrancis Pym
Welsh politician and foreign secretary
Born
February 13th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1922, a notable Welsh soldier and politician served as Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs from 1979 to 1981. Represented the Conservative Party as a Member of Parliament for 28 years. Actively involved in British politics during the late 20th century, contributing to discussions on foreign policy and international relations.
Continue ReadingAl Montoya
Ice hockey player and goalie for NHL teams
Born
February 13th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, an ice hockey goaltender played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams including the New York Rangers, New York Islanders, and the Florida Panthers. Drafted 6th overall by the Rangers in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, started professional career in the AHL with the Hartford Wolf Pack. Made NHL debut with the Rangers in 2009. Later played significant roles with the Islanders and Panthers, providing valuable experience and performance in goal. Became the first Puerto Rican-born player to play in the NHL. Retired from professional hockey in 2019.
Continue ReadingMemphis Depay
Footballer, UEFA European Championship player
Born
February 13th, 1994 31 years ago
A professional footballer who primarily plays as a forward. Developed talent at PSV Eindhoven, winning the Eredivisie title in 2015. Later transferred to Manchester United, where he featured in the Premier League and won the FA Community Shield in 2016. Joined Olympique Lyonnais, scoring numerous goals and contributing to the team's success in Ligue 1. Played a significant role for the Netherlands national team, participating in the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingSusan Oliver
American actress in television and film
Born
February 13th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 58 years old
An actress gained prominence for work in both television and film. Appeared in the pilot episode of the original Star Trek series, portraying the character Vina. Had a notable role in 'Bewitched' as an actress. Participated in numerous television series throughout the 1960s and 1970s, establishing a strong presence in the industry. Also directed several episodes of television series, showcasing versatility beyond acting.
Continue ReadingSophia Lillis
American actress in horror films
Born
February 13th, 2002 23 years ago
An actress gained recognition for roles in film and television. Starred as Beverly Marsh in the film adaptations of Stephen King's 'It' and 'It Chapter Two'. Appeared in the Netflix series 'I Am Not Okay with This', showcasing a blend of horror and coming-of-age themes. Featured in the film 'Gretel & Hansel', further establishing a presence in the horror genre.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 22nd
Christopher Stone
English radio host and broadcaster
Born
September 19th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1965 60 years ago — 82 years old
Engaged in radio broadcasting primarily in England, particularly recognized for pioneering techniques in host presentation and audience interaction. Established a reputation through various radio shows, contributing to the growth of radio as a popular medium in the early 20th century. Played an influential role in shaping broadcasting standards during a formative time for the industry, becoming a voice for public discourse across multiple platforms.
Continue ReadingThomas Clifford
English noble and 8th Baron de Clifford
Born
March 25th, 1414 611 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1455 570 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1414, enfeoffed with extensive lands in England, held the title of 8th Baron de Clifford. Engaged in military and political matters during the early 15th century, particularly relating to the ongoing conflicts of the time. Inherited the barony following the death of his father, becoming involved in the governance of local estates and representation in Parliament. His tenure contributed to the stability of noble lineage in the region.
Continue ReadingJohn 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 ReadingZellig Harris
American linguist and methodologist
Born
October 23rd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1992 33 years ago — 82 years old
Significant contributions were made to the field of linguistics and language structure. Developed methodologies in structural linguistics and distributional grammar. Served as a professor at the University of Pennsylvania and published extensively on phonology and syntax. Worked on transformation-generative grammar and its implications for language study, which has influenced academic discourse and research in linguistics.
Continue ReadingVictor Hugo
French author and playwright of Les Misérables
Born
February 26th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1885 140 years ago — 83 years old
A significant figure in French literature, this individual was a poet, novelist, and playwright. They wrote extensively during the 19th century, producing works that addressed social issues such as poverty and injustice. Major contributions include 'Les Misérables', exploring the lives of characters grappling with redemption and societal constraints, and 'Notre-Dame de Paris', highlighting the fate of the tragic figure Quasimodo. Their writings explored themes of love, politics, and morality, influencing literature and social thought.
Continue ReadingMartha Washington
First Lady of the United States
Born
June 2nd, 1731 294 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1802 223 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1731, served as the First Lady during the presidency of George Washington from 1789 to 1797. Managed the household and social responsibilities that accompanied the role. Played a significant part in the Revolutionary War by supporting troops with supplies and morale. Engaged in various social and charitable activities, influencing the social landscape of the time.
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