Przemysł II of Poland
King of Poland and Prince of Pomerania
Ruled as King of Poland from 1295 to 1296 and was previously Prince of Pomerania. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Poland during the late 13th century. Established the throne to reinforce the monarchy, following a period of fragmentation in Polish governance. His reign was cut short by assassination, which led to significant political turmoil in the region. His efforts contributed to the gradual unification of Polish territories.
Crowned King of Poland in 1295
Strengthened the Polish monarchy
Unified various Polish territories
Other People Born on October 14th
Charles Middleton
Admiral and politician, 1st Baron Barham
Born
October 14th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1813 212 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Scotland in 1726, served in the Royal Navy and rose to the rank of Admiral. Held the position of First Lord of the Admiralty from 1805 to 1806. Engaged in naval operations during the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. Contributed to naval administration and policy development.
Continue ReadingArca
Venezuelan electronic music producer
Born
October 14th, 1989 36 years ago
Born in Venezuela, this musician gained prominence in the electronic music scene, creating innovative sounds that blend genres. Collaborations with notable artists such as FKA twigs and Björk highlighted this individual's versatility and creativity. The work includes critically acclaimed albums such as "Xen," "Mutant," and "Arca," which showcased an experimental approach to music production. This musician's contribution to the art of sound design and performance has influenced various artists and genres.
Continue ReadingJared Goff
American football quarterback, Super Bowl LIII
Born
October 14th, 1994 31 years ago
Played quarterback in the National Football League. Drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Rams in the 2016 NFL Draft. In the 2018 season, led the Rams to an NFC Championship and a Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl LIII against the New England Patriots. Achieved Pro Bowl selections in both 2017 and 2018. After several seasons with the Rams, was traded to the Detroit Lions in 2021, contributing to the team's offense.
Continue ReadingWesley Matthews
Professional basketball player, NBA
Born
October 14th, 1986 39 years ago
Played college basketball at Marquette University. Entered the NBA in 2009, signing with the Utah Jazz. Excelled as a shooting guard known for his three-point shooting and defensive skills. Later played for the Portland Trail Blazers, where he was part of the team that made multiple playoff appearances. Continued his career with the Dallas Mavericks, Indiana Pacers, and Milwaukee Bucks. Achieved a reputation for resilience and leadership on the court.
Continue ReadingRowan Blanchard
American actress from 'Girl Meets World'
Born
October 14th, 2001 24 years ago
Debuted in the film 'The Back-up Plan' at a young age. Played Riley Matthews in the Disney Channel series 'Girl Meets World', which aired from 2014 to 2017. Blanchard has also appeared in the feature film 'A Wrinkle in Time', based on the novel by Madeleine L'Engle. Besides acting, she has been involved in various social and political issues, using her platform to advocate for change.
Continue ReadingLaRon Landry
American football player and safety
Born
October 14th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional American football player, played safety in the National Football League (NFL) for several teams including the Washington Football Team and the New York Jets. Entered the NFL after being selected in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft. Established a reputation for strong defensive skills and athleticism during a career spanning several seasons in the league. Earned All-Pro honors, contributing significantly to team defenses and making key plays in crucial games.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 8th
William J. Donovan
American general and wartime leader
Born
January 1st, 1883 143 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1959 66 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a general during World War II and became the head of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the precursor to the Central Intelligence Agency. Played a crucial role in coordinating intelligence operations and fostering collaboration among Allied forces. After the war, transitioned into a successful career in law and politics, contributing to various legal reforms and serving in different governmental roles. Published works include insights into intelligence and military strategy, showcasing the importance of espionage in warfare.
Continue ReadingIan Stevenson
Psychiatrist known for parapsychology research
Born
October 31st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old
A psychiatrist and academic focused on parapsychology and reincarnation, conducted extensive research into children's memories of past lives. Researched cases around the world, documenting detailed accounts that included verifiable facts. Published numerous articles and books on the subject, leading to significant discussions within the scientific community. Established the Division of Personality Studies at the University of Virginia, which furthered the study of personality and consciousness.
Continue ReadingOng Teng Cheong
Architect and 5th President of Singapore
Born
January 22nd, 1936 90 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2002 23 years ago — 66 years old
An architect and politician served as the 5th President of Singapore from 1993 to 1999. Before the presidency, held various roles in government including Minister of Communications and Minister of Labour. Contributed to significant developments in the architectural landscape of Singapore and engaged in public service to advance communication and labour policies. Played a key role in the development of Singapore's urban environment and social framework, promoting efficient public transport and policies benefitting workers.
Continue ReadingJan van Huysum
Dutch painter of still life masterpieces
Born
1682 344 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1749 276 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent Dutch painter, renowned for exquisite still life paintings characterized by meticulous detail and vibrant colors. Van Huysum specialized in flower arrangements, fruits, and banquet scenes. His technical prowess in depicting natural elements earned recognition and admiration in the art world of the 18th century. He contributed significantly to the Dutch golden age of painting and his works are characterized by a realistic representation of light and texture. Many of his pieces are held in prestigious collections across Europe, showcasing the skill and artistry of Dutch still life.
Continue ReadingAlexios IV Angelos
Byzantine emperor during the Fourth Crusade
Born
1182 844 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1204 821 years ago — 22 years old
Ruled as Byzantine emperor from 1203 to 1204. Ascended to the throne after a coup that overthrew his father. The reign was marked by the call for assistance from the West, leading to an agreement with the leaders of the Fourth Crusade. This arrangement aimed to restore and reinforce the Byzantine Empire's territory and power, but it ultimately culminated in the sack of Constantinople. The reign ended with capture and execution following a revolt against his rule, which was plagued by instability and external pressures.
Continue ReadingCharles Curtis
31st U.S. Vice President
Born
January 25th, 1860 166 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1936 89 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 31st Vice President of the United States from 1929 to 1933 under President Herbert Hoover. Curtis was the first person with Native American ancestry to hold the office of Vice President. A member of the Republican Party, he previously represented Kansas in the U.S. Senate from 1907 to 1913 and from 1915 to 1929, where he served as the Senate's majority leader. Curtis began his political career in the Kansas House of Representatives and later served as the state's Attorney General. His legal and political background supported his longstanding involvement in governance.
Continue Reading