Pope Urban VIII
Pope and patron of Baroque art
Served as Pope from 1623 to 1644. Oversaw a period marked by significant artistic achievement and the consolidation of papal power. Urban VIII initiated numerous architectural projects in Rome, including the completion of St. Peter's Basilica, and his papacy is often associated with the flourishing of Baroque art, influencing artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini. He also formulated policies in response to the Thirty Years' War, which affected Europe during his tenure.
Commissioned the construction of the Baldachin at St. Peter's Basilica
Patronized artists including Gian Lorenzo Bernini
Strengthened the papacy during tumultuous political times
Other People Born on April 5th
Kaveh Rezaei
Iranian football player, Persepolis FC
Born
April 5th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, a professional footballer played as a forward. Began career in the Iranian league before moving to Europe, where played for clubs including the Belgian team Charleroi and the Iranian national team. Contributed significantly to team successes and competed in various international tournaments.
Continue ReadingJohnny Beecher
Ice hockey player and NCAA champion
Born
April 5th, 2001 24 years ago
Played ice hockey at the collegiate level with the University of Michigan, where contributed to the team's success during the NCAA tournaments. Participated with the USA Hockey National Team Development Program, showcasing skills at the junior level. Entered the professional ranks after being selected in the 2nd round of the 2019 NHL Draft by the Boston Bruins, marking a significant step in a professional career. Beecher's playing style gained attention for its physicality and speed, essential in both offensive and defensive roles.
Continue ReadingYassine Bounou
Moroccan footballer goalkeeper
Born
April 5th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional goalkeeper played for Sevilla FC and the Moroccan national team. Achieved notable success in La Liga and the UEFA Europa League. Gained recognition for exceptional performances in international tournaments, particularly during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingSebastian Starke Hedlund
Swedish footballer, played for Helsingborgs IF
Born
April 5th, 1995 30 years ago
A professional footballer from Sweden. Played as a midfielder. Primarily associated with Helsingborgs IF in the Swedish league. Started the professional career in 2012, contributing to the team during multiple seasons. Received recognition for performance on the field and was involved in various matches in the Allsvenskan league.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Garcia
Rugby league player; Catalans Dragons
Born
April 5th, 1993 32 years ago
A rugby league player from France, active primarily in the Super League. Represented Catalans Dragons in multiple seasons and contributed to the team's efforts in various competitions. Played as a forward and made significant appearances representing both club and country. Garnered attention for on-field performance and tactical abilities.
Continue ReadingViliame Kikau
Rugby League Player, Penrith Panthers
Born
April 5th, 1995 30 years ago
Born in Fiji, this rugby league player has gained recognition in the National Rugby League (NRL). Playing primarily as a second-row forward, showcased exceptional physicality and skill on the field. Joined the Penrith Panthers in 2017 and contributed to the team's success in various seasons. Key moments include playing a crucial role in the Panthers' victory in the 2021 NRL Grand Final, which solidified the team's status in the league. Represented Fiji internationally, participating in multiple tournaments and showcasing talents on a global scale.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 29th
Fred Waring
American bandleader and television host
Born
June 9th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1984 41 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent figure in American music, led the renowned Fred Waring and his Pennsylvanians, a popular choral group. Pioneered the use of television in promoting music through the series 'The Fred Waring Show'. Created innovative arrangements blending traditional music with contemporary styles. Contributed to the development of the modern choral movement and was influential in music education.
Continue ReadingChristian de Castries
French General during Indochina War
Born
August 11th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1991 34 years ago — 88 years old
A French general served during the Indochina War, commanding forces in pivotal battles. Led troops at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, which marked a significant turning point in the conflict. Engaged in military strategy and operations in Southeast Asia throughout the war, impacting French colonial efforts.
Continue ReadingHarold Sakata
Wrestler and actor, portrayed Oddjob
Born
July 1st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1982 43 years ago — 62 years old
A Japanese-American wrestler and actor gained recognition for playing the character Oddjob in the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger. Initially a successful amateur wrestler, he transitioned to professional wrestling, competing in various matches across the United States. The performance in Goldfinger brought significant attention and opened doors to further artistic endeavors, including appearances in television series and films. Contributions to both wrestling and acting resulted in a lasting legacy in popular culture.
Continue ReadingMartin Behaim
Navigator and geographer; created globe
Born
October 6th, 1459 566 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1507 518 years ago — 47 years old
A navigator and geographer in the late 15th century, contributed significantly to the mapping of the world. Created the Erdapfel, the oldest surviving terrestrial globe, which depicted the known world at the time. Worked in Portugal under patronage of King John II, facilitating navigation and exploration during the Age of Discovery. Helped illuminate geographical understanding through detailed documentation of various regions.
Continue ReadingVincent van Gogh
Post-Impressionist painter of 'Starry Night'
Born
March 30th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1890 135 years ago — 37 years old
A Dutch-French painter, recognized as one of the most influential figures in Western art history. Active during the late 19th century, his work features bold colors and dramatic, expressive brushwork. Suffered from mental illness throughout his life, which influenced his art. Created over 2,100 artworks, including about 860 oil paintings, many of which were produced in the last two years of his life. Only gained widespread recognition after death.
Continue ReadingDidier Pitre
Ice Hockey Player for Montreal Canadiens
Born
September 1st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1934 91 years ago — 50 years old
Born in Canada, played professional ice hockey in the early 20th century. Pitre played as a left winger for the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey Association (NHA) and later in the National Hockey League (NHL). His playing career spanned from 1909 to 1926. Pitre was noted for his scoring ability and physical playing style, contributing significantly to the teams he played for during the formative years of professional ice hockey. At various times, he was among the top scorers in the league.
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