Pope Alexander VIII

Pope during the late 17th century

Pope Alexander VIII - Pope during the late 17th century
Born

April 22nd, 1610
415 years ago

Died

February 1st, 1691
334 years ago — 80 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Vatican City

Links & References

Served as the Pope from 1689 until death in 1691. Oversaw the Catholic Church during a period marked by internal reform and external challenges. Addressed issues of clerical reform and church-state relations. Navigated complex political landscapes involving France, Spain, and the Holy Roman Empire. Worked to strengthen the authority of the papacy and mitigate the influence of rivals. Initiated construction projects in Rome, enhancing the city’s architectural heritage.

Reformed clerical appointments

Promoted Baroque architecture in Rome

Other People Born on April 22nd

Mel Carter

American singer and actor noted for music
Born
April 22nd, 1939 86 years ago

Born in 1939, a singer and actor gained recognition during the 1960s. Achieved success with hit songs, particularly 'Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me,' which reached the top of the charts. Also appeared on various television programs, including 'The Ed Sullivan Show.' His contributions to both music and television played a significant role in popular entertainment of the time.

Continue Reading

Henry Fielding

English novelist and playwright, Tom Jones
Born
April 22nd, 1707 318 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1754 270 years ago — 47 years old

Fielding was an English novelist and playwright during the 18th century. His most acclaimed work, 'The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling', published in 1749, is considered one of the first English novels, establishing the form's early conventions. He also wrote significant plays, contributing to the development of the theatre during the time. Fielding was a prominent figure in the literary scene and critiqued social issues through his writings. Additionally, he was involved in law and public service, serving as a magistrate in London.

Continue Reading

Baldev Raj Chopra

Indian film director of 'Mahabharat'
Born
April 22nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 94 years old

A celebrated Indian film director and producer, influential in the Hindi cinema industry. Founded the production company B. R. Chopra Films and directed several acclaimed films, with a focus on social and mythological themes. Gained recognition for creating the television adaptation of the ancient Indian epic 'Mahabharat', which became a landmark series during the late 1980s. Contributed significantly to Indian cinema through productions that featured strong narratives and rich storytelling.

Continue Reading

John Waters

Film director and screenwriter of Hairspray
Born
April 22nd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1965 60 years ago — 19 years old

An influential figure in independent cinema, contributed as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Gained prominence in the 1970s with films characterized by their unconventional narratives and camp aesthetics. Achieved widespread recognition with the 1988 film 'Hairspray', which later became a successful Broadway musical and a Hollywood remake. Waters's works often explore themes of identity, marginalized communities, and social norms.

Continue Reading

Spyros Markezinis

Greek politician, Prime Minister
Born
April 22nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 91 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Greece from 1973 to 1974 during a critical period in Greek history. Played a significant role in the political transitions following the military junta that ruled Greece from 1967 to 1974. Engaged in various political and governmental positions throughout his career, contributing to discussions and reforms aimed at restoring democracy. Advocated for modernization and development within the country, emphasizing economic progress and social stability.

Continue Reading

Otto Rank

Psychologist and author of 'The Trauma of Birth'
Born
April 22nd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1939 85 years ago — 55 years old

Austrian-American psychologist focused on psychoanalytic theory and the psychological significance of birth. Rank studied under Sigmund Freud and contributed to the field with innovative concepts, emphasizing the impact of early experiences on personality development. His major work, 'The Trauma of Birth', explored the psychological implications of birth and its aftermath, reshaping ideas about the origins of anxiety and neurosis. Rank also played a crucial role in the founding of the New School for Social Research in New York, where he taught and influenced many students in psychology and the humanities. Later in his career, he diverged from traditional psychoanalytic views and developed his theories on creativity and art.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 1st

John Floyer

English physician and author of medical texts
Born
1649 376 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1734 291 years ago — 85 years old

A physician, a significant figure in 18th century medicine, contributed to the understanding of diseases and the practice of medicine through various publications. His work emphasized the importance of pulse measurement and introduced new methods for clinical assessment. Authored several texts that explored medical practices, with a particular focus on respiratory diseases and the effects of air quality. His observations laid a foundation for future explorations in medicine and health.

Continue Reading

Herb Caen

Journalist and author of 'Baghdad by the Bay'
Born
April 3rd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1997 28 years ago — 80 years old

A significant journalist and author, this individual gained recognition for columns written for the San Francisco Chronicle. The writing style combined wit and keen observation, capturing the essence of San Francisco life. Notable works include 'Baghdad by the Bay', which offered a colorful portrayal of the city. A recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished news reporting, the individual contributed to the field of journalism through a long career spanning several decades, influencing the landscape of local reporting.

Continue Reading

Madame Sul-Te-Wan

American actress in film and theater
Born
March 7th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1959 66 years ago — 85 years old

An actress with a prominent career in film and theater during the early 20th century, recognized for significant roles in various productions. Featured in 'The Scandal of Fatima' and 'The Birth of a Nation', contributing to the representation of African American women in the arts. Active in the theater community, and involved in various performances, she broke ground for future generations of actors.

Continue Reading

Donald Wills Douglas

Aerospace engineer, founded Douglas Aircraft
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1981 44 years ago — 89 years old

An American engineer and businessman established the Douglas Aircraft Company in 1921. The company became a significant player in aerospace production, particularly during World War II and the post-war era. Douglas led the development of several military and civilian aircraft, including the DC-3, which revolutionized air travel. He was instrumental in advancing aerospace technology and manufacturing processes, contributing to both aviation and defense industries. Under his leadership, the company achieved significant production milestones and expanded into various aircraft models that were widely utilized worldwide. Douglas's efforts laid the groundwork for future advancements in aviation.

Continue Reading

Sven Thofelt

Modern pentathlete and épée fencer
Born
May 19th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1993 32 years ago — 88 years old

Competed in modern pentathlon and fencing, excelling in épée. Achieved success in multiple international competitions, representing Sweden. Was part of the Swedish team that participated in the 1960 Rome Olympics, achieving a notable ranking. Contributed to the sport through both competition and coaching.

Continue Reading

Johan Scharffenberg

Norwegian psychiatrist
Born
November 23rd, 1869 155 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1965 60 years ago — 95 years old

A Norwegian psychiatrist contributed significantly to the field of psychiatry during the mid-20th century. Scharffenberg focused on the treatment of psychological disorders and advanced techniques in psychotherapy. His work especially emphasized the importance of understanding the patient’s background and individual circumstances. He participated in various psychiatric conferences and shared research findings with the global community, helping to promote innovative treatment approaches. Scharffenberg's work is referenced in psychiatric literature and has influenced subsequent generations of mental health professionals.

Continue Reading