Pope Pius II

Pope and author of 'Commentaries'

Pope Pius II - Pope and author of 'Commentaries'
Born

October 18th, 1405
619 years ago

Died

August 14th, 1464
560 years ago — 58 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Italy

Links & References

Elected as pope in 1458, served until 1464. Authored 'Commentaries', providing insight into his thoughts and experiences during the Renaissance. Became involved in various diplomatic missions and sought to unite Christendom against the Ottoman Turks. Founded the town of Pienza, known for its Renaissance architecture and urban planning, reflecting humanist ideals.

Authored 'Commentaries' detailing papal life

Sought to organize a crusade against the Ottomans

Founded the town of Pienza as a model of Renaissance planning

Other People Born on October 18th

Lucien Petit-Breton

French professional road cyclist, Tour de France champion
Born
October 18th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1917 107 years ago — 35 years old

Achievements in professional cycling include winning the Tour de France twice, in 1907 and 1908. Competed actively in road races and earned a reputation for exceptional endurance and racing strategy. Won various prestigious races, showcasing talent in long-distance events. Helped elevate the profile of cycling in France during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Robbie Savage

Footballer and sportscaster
Born
October 18th, 1974 50 years ago

A former professional footballer, played as a midfielder. Notable career included stints at Leicester City, Birmingham City, and Derby County. Transitioned to sportscasting after retirement, becoming a prominent football pundit on various media platforms in the UK.

Continue Reading

James Robert Baker

American author and screenwriter
Born
October 18th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1997 27 years ago — 51 years old

An author and screenwriter, notable works include the novel 'Fat City' and the screenplay for 'Demon Seed.' Baker's writing focused on themes of sexuality, identity, and the darker aspects of human nature. He gained recognition for his innovative narrative style and contribution to LGBTQ literature. His work often explored complex relationships and social commentary, making significant contributions to literature and film during his career.

Continue Reading

Billy Murdoch

Australian cricketer and captain
Born
October 18th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1911 114 years ago — 57 years old

An influential cricketer, made significant contributions to Australian cricket during the late 19th century. Played primarily as a wicketkeeper and batsman, participated in the first Test match played by Australia in 1877. Served as captain of the national team and led Australia in several Test series. Involved in the establishment of the Victorian Cricket Association and was instrumental in the development of cricket in Australia. Worked as a journalist after retirement, covering cricket and other sports.

Continue Reading

Thomas Love Peacock

English author and poet, 'Nightmare Abbey'
Born
October 18th, 1785 239 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1866 159 years ago — 80 years old

An English author and poet, contributions to literature included novels and poetry with a focus on satire and social commentary. Works often depicted philosophical themes intertwined with a humorous critique of contemporary society. Notable writings include 'Nightmare Abbey', which satirized the Gothic novel genre, exploring themes of love, despair, and the nature of artistic creativity. Peacock's writing style featured sharp wit and engaging narratives that provided insight into the Romantic era.

Continue Reading

Mikhail Kuzmin

Russian author and poet
Born
October 18th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1936 89 years ago — 63 years old

A significant figure in Russian literature, this author and poet contributed to the Silver Age of Russian poetry. His works often reflected themes of love, nature, and the quest for personal identity. Best known for the poem collection 'The Wings', which showcased a blend of romantic and modernist styles, he also wrote novels and essays that highlighted the complexities of personal and social issues. His literary career was marked by innovative use of language and form, which influenced subsequent generations of writers.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 14th

Karl Böhm

Austrian conductor of classical music
Born
August 28th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1981 43 years ago — 86 years old

Austrian conductor and director garnered recognition for contributions to classical music. Studied at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, later becoming a conductor at prestigious opera houses, including the Vienna State Opera and the Berlin State Opera. Best known for interpretations of works by composers such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Richard Strauss. Conducted the Berlin Philharmonic and the Wien Philharmoniker in numerous performances.

Continue Reading

Konstantin von Neurath

German politician, Foreign Affairs Minister
Born
February 2nd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1956 68 years ago — 83 years old

Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Germany during the early to mid-20th century. Held the position of Reich Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1932 to 1938. Participated in several key diplomatic negotiations and represented Germany at international conferences. His tenure was marked by challenges in foreign policy amidst the rising tensions in Europe leading up to World War II. After the war, faced trials for war crimes.

Continue Reading

Leonard Fein

Journalist and Moment Magazine co-founder
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2014 10 years ago — 80 years old

An American journalist and academic, this individual co-founded Moment Magazine in 1975, which focuses on Jewish culture and politics. The role involved extensive writing, editorial efforts, and the promotion of discourse on contemporary Jewish issues. Throughout a career in journalism and academia, this person contributed to various publications, reflecting deep engagement with socio-political themes and Jewish identity. Contributions to the public intellectual landscape were characterized by commentary and analysis aimed at fostering understanding within and outside the Jewish community.

Continue Reading

Larry Rivers

American painter and sculptor, 'Washington Crossing the Delaware'
Born
August 17th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2002 22 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent figure in the art world, contributions spanned painting and sculpture. Evolved from a representational style to more abstract expressionism. Created notable works like 'Washington Crossing the Delaware', blending historical themes with modern techniques. Also engaged in collaborative projects with musicians and writers. Rivers taught at various institutions and held multiple exhibitions throughout his career, gaining recognition for both his artwork and educational efforts.

Continue Reading

Tiberius II Constantine

Byzantine Emperor during the 6th century
Died
August 14th, 582 1442 years ago — None years old

Ruled as Byzantine emperor from 578 to 582. Implemented fiscal reforms and improved the military capabilities of the empire. Faced military challenges from the Persians and Slavs while dealing with internal strife. Promoted religious tolerance within the realm, especially towards Monophysitism. His reign was marked by efforts to restore stability and secure the borders of the empire. Died in 582, leaving behind a legacy of attempted consolidation of power and reform.

Continue Reading

Frédéric Joliot-Curie

Nobel Prize-winning physicist
Born
March 19th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1958 66 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of nuclear physics. Developed the concept of artificial radioactivity along with a research partnership. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1935 for work on the synthesis of new radioactive elements. Engaged in various scientific and educational efforts throughout a distinguished career, emphasizing advancements in physical sciences.

Continue Reading