René Descartes
French philosopher and mathematician
A French mathematician and philosopher, made significant contributions to mathematics and philosophy. Developed Cartesian coordinate system which laid the groundwork for analytical geometry. Published 'Meditations on First Philosophy', establishing foundational concepts in modern philosophy. Died in Sweden in 1650.
Developed Cartesian coordinate system
Published 'Meditations on First Philosophy'
Other People Born on March 31st
Eduardo Martínez Somalo
Spanish cardinal and church official
Born
March 31st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 94 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1953, served in various roles within the Catholic Church, including positions in the Vatican. Appointed as the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in 1998, overseeing the procedures for canonization. Participated in several papal conclaves, contributing to the selection of popes.
Continue ReadingPeggy Rea
Actress known for 'The Dukes of Hazzard'
Born
March 31st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2011 15 years ago — 89 years old
An American actress and casting director, this individual gained prominence for roles in television and film. The most notable performance was in the series 'The Dukes of Hazzard', where a prominent role contributed to the show's popularity. Additional work included performances in 'Grace Under Fire' and 'The Waltons', further showcasing versatility in character portrayals. Active in the entertainment industry for several decades, this individual also held a position as a casting director, influencing the selection of talent for various productions.
Continue ReadingMariana Victoria of Spain
Spanish Infanta and Queen consort
Born
March 31st, 1718 307 years ago
Died
1781 245 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1718, Mariana Victoria of Spain was an Infanta of Spain and later became the Queen consort of Portugal through marriage. She was a daughter of King Philip V of Spain and Queen consort Maria Luis of Savoy. In 1729, she married King Joseph I of Portugal, thus solidifying an important political alliance between Spain and Portugal. During her time as queen consort, she contributed to the Portuguese court's cultural life and had a significant role in the upbringing of the royal children. Her marriage marked a period of relative peace between the two kingdoms, and she navigated the complex political landscape of the Iberian Peninsula.
Continue ReadingRichard Chamberlain
American actor in 'Dr. Kildare'
Born
March 31st, 1934 91 years ago
A distinguished American actor, recognized for significant roles in both television and film. Gained prominence through the title role in the television series 'Dr. Kildare' during the 1960s. Achieved further acclaim for the miniseries 'The Thorn Birds', portraying the character Father Ralph de Bricassart. Chamberlain's career spans several decades, showcasing a versatile acting range in various genres.
Continue ReadingPope Pius IV
Pope and reformer of the Catholic Church
Born
March 31st, 1499 526 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1565 460 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the Pope from 1559 until 1565. Convened the final sessions of the Council of Trent, which was a significant ecumenical council that addressed church reform and clarified Catholic doctrine in response to the Protestant Reformation. Oversaw the implementation of reforms aimed at correcting abuses within the church. Strengthened the Roman Catholic Church's position throughout Europe during a time of significant religious upheaval.
Continue ReadingKristian Blak
Pianist and composer from Faroe Islands
Born
March 31st, 1947 78 years ago
A Danish-Faroese pianist, composer, and producer. Active in the fields of classical and contemporary music, created numerous works that blend traditional Faroese music with modern influences. Developed a distinctive style that incorporates elements from various genres, drawing from the rich cultural heritage of the Faroe Islands. Founded the music label Tutl, aiming to promote Faroese music. Additionally, has contributed to the jazz scene and collaborated with various international musicians.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 11th
Alexander Griboyedov
Russian playwright and composer of Woe from Wit
Born
January 15th, 1795 231 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1829 196 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1795, a Russian playwright, composer, and poet contributed significantly to Russian literature and drama. Best known for the comedy 'Woe from Wit', this work satirizes the social norms and politics of the era. In addition to playwriting, engaged in diplomatic service, serving in Persia, where his life concluded tragically. This figure left a lasting influence on the development of Russian theatre.
Continue ReadingFrank Piasecki
American aerospace engineer and inventor
Born
October 24th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 88 years old
An aerospace engineer and inventor, contributed significantly to the development of rotorcraft technology. Co-founded Piasecki Helicopter Corporation in the 1940s. Pioneered the design of innovative helicopters, including the world's first twin-rotor helicopter, the PV-2. Additionally, worked on the development of the PV-3 and developed the first successful flying car prototype, the Airgeep.
Continue ReadingFab Melo
Brazilian basketball player and center
Born
1990 36 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2017 8 years ago — 27 years old
A professional basketball player played primarily as a center. Melo played college basketball for the Syracuse Orange, where he helped the team win the NCAA Championship in 2013. After college, he was selected in the second round of the 2012 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics. During his professional career, he played in the NBA and had stints in various international leagues, including in Brazil and Europe. Despite facing challenges in maintaining consistent performance in the NBA, he contributed significantly in overseas competitions.
Continue ReadingFernando González Pacheco
Colombian journalist and actor
Born
September 13th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
Worked as a journalist and contributed to the media landscape in Colombia. Gained recognition for work on the television show 'Los Pecados de Inés de Hinojosa'. Also appeared in productions like 'La mujer del presidente'. His journalism was distinguished by a focus on current events and issues affecting Colombian society, earning respect in the field.
Continue ReadingAharon Davidi
Israeli general and military leader
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old
A military leader held significant positions in the Israel Defense Forces during pivotal moments in Israeli history. He served as a commander in various conflicts, including the 1967 Six-Day War, where strategic decisions led to territorial gains for Israel. Contributions included leadership roles in operations that influenced military tactics and national defense strategies. Post-military career included involvement in political and security discussions.
Continue ReadingRoger Hanin
French actor and director of 'Navarro'
Born
October 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
An actor, director, and screenwriter from France. Gained prominence through performances in television series and films, particularly memorable for portraying police chief Navarro in the long-running French show 'Navarro'. Directed several films, demonstrating a wide range of creative talents. Worked in theater and was active in promoting French cinema throughout a career spanning over five decades.
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