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
Esther Borja
Cuban soprano and actress
Born
December 5th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2013 11 years ago — 100 years old
A prominent soprano and actress from Cuba, distinguished for contributions to opera and theater during the 20th century. Significant performances included roles in operas such as 'Carmen' and 'La Traviata'. Her career spanned decades, captivating audiences both in Cuba and internationally. Borja was celebrated for her vocal talent and artistry, becoming a notable figure in the cultural landscape of Cuban music. She also participated in various theatrical productions, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
Continue ReadingMartin Van Buren
American politician, 8th U.S. President
Born
December 5th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1862 163 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 8th President of the United States from 1837 to 1841. Played a key role in founding the Democratic Party. Served as the Secretary of State and the Vice President under Andrew Jackson. Worked on issues such as the economy and the fallout from the Panic of 1837.
Continue ReadingRaquel 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 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 ReadingElbert Frank Cox
Mathematician, first African American PhD
Born
December 5th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 74 years old
A mathematician and academic, he earned the first PhD in Mathematics awarded to an African American in 1925 from Cornell University. A long career in academia included positions at various institutions, focusing on teaching and research in mathematics. Active in promoting education and opportunities for African Americans in higher education, he contributed to the development of mathematics as a field during the mid-20th century. His legacy includes mentoring countless students and advocating for diversity in mathematics.
Continue ReadingLevy Rozman
Chess International Master and YouTuber
Born
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago
An International Master in chess, contributed significantly to online chess content creation through streaming and YouTube. Focused on educating and entertaining chess enthusiasts with instructional videos and live gameplay. Engaged audiences with a blend of humor and strategic insights. Gained popularity for promoting chess through innovative digital platforms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
John Charles
Welsh footballer and manager, Juventus star
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in football, excelled as both a player and manager. Played primarily as a forward and became a key player for Juventus during the 1950s, winning three Serie A titles. Made significant contributions to the Welsh national team, earning 38 caps and scoring 23 goals. Transitioned into management after retirement, taking charge of teams such as Cardiff City and others in the Welsh football system.
Continue ReadingJohn Bahnsen
U.S. Army Brigadier General
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of brigadier general. Participated in the Vietnam War and received several decorations for valor and service. Commanded troops in various capacities and contributed to military strategy and operations. Held leadership roles in later military assignments, influencing training and development within the Army.
Continue ReadingWilmer Mizell
Baseball player and politician
Born
August 13th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 68 years old
Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher from 1951 to 1962, primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets. Achieved 9 wins in his rookie season with the Cardinals. Later transitioned into a political career, serving in the North Carolina State Senate. Contributed to legislative matters and continued involvement in sports and public service after retirement from baseball.
Continue ReadingEugène de Beauharnais
French general and military leader
Born
September 3rd, 1781 244 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1824 201 years ago — 42 years old
A French general, served as a prominent military leader during the Napoleonic Wars. Became the Governor of Italy, strategically overseeing the region for the French Empire. Notable for the Battle of Borodino, where commanded troops effectively against Russian forces. Played a significant role in various campaigns, demonstrating strong leadership skills on the battlefield. After Napoleon's fall, held various roles within the newly established French government.
Continue ReadingMikhail Sholokhov
Russian novelist, Nobel Prize winner.
Born
May 24th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1984 41 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent Soviet writer, authored literary works that depicted the life of the Cossacks in the early 20th century. Sholokhov gained international acclaim for the novel 'And Quiet Flows the Don,' which presented the complexities of personal and political life during the Russian Revolution and Civil War. His writing style combined realism with the rich oral tradition of Cossack folklore, earning him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1965 for his achievements. Other notable works include 'The Silent Don' and numerous short stories that reflect the turbulent times of his homeland.
Continue ReadingStanley Donen
Film director of 'Singin' in the Rain'
Born
April 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2019 6 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent film director, contributed significantly to the musical genre in cinema. Directed classics such as 'Singin' in the Rain' and 'On the Town'. Worked in collaboration with notable figures in the industry, merging dance and storytelling in innovative ways. The use of vibrant choreography and memorable scores established a unique style that has been influential across generations.
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