Pope Julius II
Renaissance Pope, architect of St. Peter's
One of the most notable popes of the Renaissance era, this figure served as the 216th pope from 1503 until 1513. A patron of the arts, he commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling and begin work on St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. His papacy is often referred to as the 'Warrior Pope' due to his military involvement in the Italian Wars, striving to reclaim territories for the Papal States. He also convened the Fifth Lateran Council to address various issues within the Church. His leadership marked a significant shift in the role of the papacy during the Renaissance, focusing on territorial expansion and cultural patronage.
Commissioned Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling
Initiated the construction of St. Peter's Basilica
Led military campaigns in the Italian Wars
Convened the Fifth Lateran Council
Other People Born on December 5th
Raquel Argandoña
Chilean model, actress, politician
Born
December 5th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in Chile, a multifaceted career included work as a model, actress, and politician. Worked in television and gained popularity through roles in telenovelas, notably in 'Ángel Malo'. Additionally, served as a member of the Chamber of Deputies, contributing to the political landscape in Chile. Engaged in various social initiatives.
Continue ReadingPieter Oud
Dutch politician, Minister of Finance
Born
December 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 82 years old
Born in the Netherlands in 1886, a prominent figure in Dutch politics and academia. Served as the Minister of Finance from 1945 to 1948, playing a significant role in the post-World War II economic recovery of the Netherlands. Emphasized the importance of economic reforms and was influential in shaping fiscal policies during a critical time in Dutch history. Besides political work, also contributed to the field of history through academic pursuits.
Continue ReadingRandal Kolo Muani
French Footballer and Eintracht Frankfurt Forward
Born
December 5th, 1998 27 years ago
A professional footballer who plays as a forward. Began professional career with FC Nantes in Ligue 1, contributing significantly to the team's performance. In 2021, transferred to Eintracht Frankfurt, where displayed strong offensive skills and agility. Gained recognition for outstanding performances in domestic and international competitions, including the UEFA Europa League. Represented the French national team and participated in major international tournaments.
Continue ReadingHans Hellmut Kirst
German lieutenant and acclaimed author
Born
December 5th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1989 36 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1914, a German lieutenant and author became prominent for works that reflected on military life and history. The literary career began post World War II, focusing on themes of war and its aftermath. Key publications included historical novels that gained significant readership. His writing often combined personal experience with detailed historical narrative.
Continue ReadingRoss Barkley
English footballer, Chelsea FC star
Born
December 5th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional footballer specialized in attacking midfield roles, with significant career achievements starting at Everton. Joined Chelsea in 2018, contributing effectively to the team's performances. Also represented England at various levels, including the senior national team.
Continue ReadingFred Rutten
Football manager and player, FC Twente
Born
December 5th, 1962 63 years ago
A Dutch football manager and former player, achieved significant success in coaching. Played as a defender for FC Twente and later transitioned to coaching. Managed several clubs including FC Twente, where led the team to a KNVB Cup victory. Also served as head coach for clubs like PSV Eindhoven and Schalke 04, with varying degrees of success.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
Mireya Arboleda
Colombian Classical Pianist
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2021 4 years ago — 93 years old
Acclaimed as a prominent classical pianist, contributions spanned performances and recordings that celebrated Colombian and international composers. Educated at notable institutions, achieved recognition for skills and dedication to music. Participated in prestigious festivals and recitals across Colombia and internationally. Notably served as a music educator, influencing future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingEugène Tisserant
French cardinal involved in Vatican affairs
Born
March 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1972 53 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent Cardinal of the Catholic Church who served as the Archbishop of Paris from 1939 to 1957. Played a significant role in the Second Vatican Council and influenced church policies during the mid-20th century. Appointed a member of the Roman Curia, engaging in various diplomatic missions on behalf of the Vatican. Participated actively in the formulation of modern Catholic practices and outreach, emphasizing dialogue with other faiths and communities.
Continue ReadingRobert Bolt
English dramatist, playwright, and screenwriter
Born
August 15th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1995 30 years ago — 70 years old
A significant figure in British theatre, this dramatist wrote several acclaimed screenplays and stage plays. Major works include the screenplays for 'Lawrence of Arabia' and 'A Man for All Seasons.' The latter received the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 1967. The playwright's works often explore themes of morality and political power, establishing a reputation as a leading voice in 20th century drama.
Continue ReadingMorton Gould
Pianist, composer, and conductor of symphonies
Born
December 10th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 82 years old
A prolific American pianist, composer, and conductor active throughout the 20th century, contributed significantly to orchestral and chamber music. Composed various works that blended classical and popular styles, including symphonies, concertos, and ballets. Served as the conductor of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and composed works for notable institutions including the New York Philharmonic and the National Symphony Orchestra. His musical arrangements gained popularity and were widely performed, expanding the reach of classical music into popular culture.
Continue ReadingClark Terry
Trumpet player and composer
Born
December 14th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent trumpet player, composer, and educator, made significant contributions to jazz music over a career spanning several decades. Played with notable bands including the Duke Ellington Orchestra and the Count Basie Orchestra. Composed multiple pieces for jazz ensembles and worked as a music educator, influencing countless students. Developed innovative trumpet techniques and contributed to the advancement of jazz pedagogy through teaching and workshops.
Continue ReadingBernard Nathanson
Physician and abortion rights activist
Born
July 31st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2011 14 years ago — 84 years old
A physician and abortion rights activist, contributed to the legalization of abortion in the United States. Played a crucial role in founding the National Association for the Repeal of Abortion Laws. Later became an outspoken opponent of abortion after undergoing a personal transformation regarding the ethics of the procedure. Authored the book 'Aborting America', detailing the history of abortion in America and advocating for the pro-life movement.
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