René of Anjou
King of Naples, Duke of Anjou
Born in 1409, René of Anjou held multiple titles, including King of Naples and Duke of Anjou. His reign in Naples is noted for his attempts to strengthen the kingdom and defend it against rival powers. René also engaged in the arts, becoming a patron of culture and literature. His military endeavors included participation in the Hundred Years' War, where he fought for the French cause against the English. He faced significant challenges in maintaining his rule and was often embroiled in conflicts that marked the political landscape of 15th-century Europe.
Ruled as King of Naples from 1435 to 1442
Served as Duke of Anjou and Count of Provence
Actively participated in the politics of the Hundred Years' War
Other People Born on January 16th
Clement Greenberg
Art critic and Modernist theorist
Born
January 16th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1994 31 years ago — 85 years old
Contributions to the field of art criticism established a foundation for understanding Modernist art. Promoted Abstract Expressionism, influencing key artists within the movement. Worked for various publications, including The Nation, where critiques on contemporary art were widely read. Authored influential essays that shaped art criticism, notably 'Avant-Garde and Kitsch,' which argued for the authenticity of Modernist art against popular culture. Articulated the importance of medium specificity in painting, which became a central tenet in art discussions.
Continue ReadingJoel Fitzgibbon
Australian politician and Minister of Defence
Born
January 16th, 1962 64 years ago
An Australian politician served as the 51st Minister of Defence. Represented the Division of Hunter in the House of Representatives. Elected to Parliament in 1996, serving for over two decades. Played a key role in defense policy and various parliamentary committees. Contributed to discussions regarding national security and military reforms.
Continue ReadingIsaac Komnenos
Byzantine noble and politician
Born
January 16th, 1093 933 years ago
Died
1152 874 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1093, served as a prominent figure in the Byzantine Empire during the Komnenian period. As the son of Emperor Alexios I, held significant influence in the court and participated in military campaigns. Accompanied the emperor during the First Crusade, where efforts were made to secure alliances with Western leaders. Played a key role in various administrative and military affairs, contributing to the stability of the empire in a tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingAnthony Denny
English politician and courtier
Born
January 16th, 1501 525 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1549 476 years ago — 48 years old
Served as a prominent courtier and Member of Parliament during the reign of King Henry VIII. Held the position of Chief Gentleman of the Privy Chamber and was involved in key decisions related to state affairs. Played a significant role in the dissolution of the monasteries and managed royal household matters. Involved in political intrigues typical of the Tudor court, Denny navigated various power struggles and the shifting loyalties of the time.
Continue ReadingEdith Frank
Mother of Anne Frank and Holocaust victim
Born
January 16th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
1945 81 years ago — 45 years old
Born in Germany and later moved to the Netherlands, raised two daughters, including Anne Frank. During World War II, the family went into hiding to escape Nazi persecution. They were discovered in 1944, and Edith was deported to Auschwitz. She died in 1945, shortly before the end of the war. The diary written by her daughter became a significant literary work and an important historical document.
Continue ReadingSamuel Jones
American high jumper and Olympic medalist
Born
January 16th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1954 71 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1880, a prominent high jumper participated in the early 20th century athletics scene. Competed in several national and international events, achieving notable success. Secured a bronze medal at the 1904 Summer Olympics held in St. Louis. Always recognized for contributions to the sport, particularly within the realm of high jump techniques and competition.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 10th
Phoebe Knapp
American organist and composer
Born
1839 187 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1908 117 years ago — 69 years old
Pioneered the development of sacred music in the late 19th century. Composed numerous hymns and liturgical music, with particular prominence in church settings. Collaborated with prominent figures in the field of music, contributing to the broader church music repertoire. Instrumental in the establishment of music programs in various religious institutions.
Continue ReadingJoan Terès i Borrull
Spanish archbishop and academic leader
Born
1538 488 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1603 422 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the Archbishop of Tarragona, guiding the spiritual and administrative affairs of the church in the region. Contributed to academic discourse through various writings, focusing on religious and moral themes. Engaged in ecclesiastical politics, influencing local church governance and educational activities. Actively participated in the Counter-Reformation efforts in Spain.
Continue ReadingJelly Roll Morton
Pianist and composer of jazz
Born
1890 136 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1941 84 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent figure in the early development of jazz, a pianist and bandleader significantly contributed to the genre's evolution. Created several classic compositions and recordings, blending various musical styles. Worked with numerous musicians and bands, establishing a strong musical presence in the early 20th century. Played a crucial role in transitioning ragtime to jazz through innovative piano techniques and arrangements. His works remain influential in the jazz repertoire.
Continue ReadingLaurent Dauthuille
French Professional Boxer and Champion
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1971 54 years ago — 47 years old
A professional boxer who competed in the welterweight and middleweight divisions. Achieved championship status in France, winning the French Middleweight title. Dauthuille represented France in a number of international matches throughout his career. He participated in key bouts, gaining recognition for his skill and determination in the ring. Dauthuille remained active in boxing until his retirement, leaving a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingCharles Bonaventure de Longueval
French commander and Count of Bucquoy
Born
January 9th, 1571 455 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1621 404 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1571, Charles Bonaventure de Longueval served as a prominent commander during the Thirty Years' War. He held the title of Count of Bucquoy and played a significant role in military engagements in Central Europe. Throughout his career, Longueval exhibited leadership in the Imperial army, where he led troops in various battles and sieges against opposing forces. His strategies and military tactics contributed to several victories, enhancing the reputation of the Imperial forces during the conflict. Longueval's service was marked by a commitment to the Habsburg cause and the defense of Catholic interests across the territories engaged in the war.
Continue ReadingArthur Fiedler
Conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra
Born
December 17th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1979 46 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent American conductor, celebrated for leading the Boston Pops Orchestra for nearly five decades. Significant contributions were made in popularizing classical music through innovative concert programming and recordings. Fiedler's approachable style attracted a wider audience to symphonic music, bridging the gap between classical and popular genres. Under Fiedler's direction, the orchestra performed numerous telecasts and concerts, enhancing its national profile during the mid-20th century. Fiedler also expanded the repertoire, incorporating various popular musical styles.
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