Roger Borsa

King of Sicily

Roger Borsa - King of Sicily
Born

1078
947 years ago

Died

February 22nd, 1111
914 years ago — 33 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Italy

Links & References

Ruled Sicily from 1080 until 1134, inheriting the title after the death of his father, Roger I. Established the administrative framework for the island and strengthened its defenses. Oversaw the transition of Sicily into a central Mediterranean power during the Norman conquests. Managed internal conflicts and maintained relative peace throughout his reign. Fostered links with the Papacy, which led to significant political alliances that benefited Sicily.

Established Norman rule in Sicily

Strengthened Sicily's defenses

Fostered political alliances with the Papacy

Other People Who Died on February 22nd

Stefan Zweig

Austrian author and playwright
Born
November 28th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1942 83 years ago — 60 years old

An Austrian journalist, author, and playwright, contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. Works explored themes of identity, culture, and existential crisis. Gained prominence in the literary world with works such as 'The World of Yesterday,' an autobiographical reflection on pre-war Europe, and 'Letter from an Unknown Woman,' a poignant novella highlighting unrequited love. Fled Austria during the rise of Nazism, leading to a life of exile. Eventually settled in Brazil, where the later years were marked by his despair over the destruction of European culture.

Continue Reading

Oskar Kokoschka

Austrian painter and playwright
Born
March 1st, 1886 139 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1980 45 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1886, this individual was a prominent figure in the Expressionist movement. Best recognized for dynamic and emotive portraits, which showcased his innovative use of color and brushwork, the works often reflected a deep psychological intensity. A versatile artist, this individual also contributed as a poet and playwright, with notable written works that explored themes of humanity and suffering. The participation in the founding of the Vienna Secession represented a significant contribution to the art community, promoting modernist concepts. Throughout the career, the exhibition of artworks in international galleries showcased the distinctive style and thematic depth, attracting attention and fostering a legacy that influenced future generations.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand de Saussure

Linguist and author of Course in General Linguistics
Born
November 26th, 1857 167 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1913 112 years ago — 55 years old

A Swiss linguist, contributed significantly to the understanding of language structure and meaning. Published the influential work 'Course in General Linguistics' posthumously in 1916, shaping modern linguistics and semiotics. Introduced the concept of the linguistic sign comprising the signifier and the signified, laying groundwork for structuralism. His theories emphasized the importance of language as a system of signs and have influenced various fields such as anthropology, psychology, and literary theory.

Continue Reading

Abraham A. Ribicoff

American politician, Secretary of HHS
Born
April 9th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1998 27 years ago — 87 years old

Served as Governor of Connecticut from 1955 to 1963, overseeing significant state reforms. Held the position of the 4th United States Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare from 1966 to 1968, where focus was placed on healthcare reforms and social services. Ribicoff was a key figure in the establishment of Medicare. In addition to political roles, contributed to legislative efforts addressing poverty and health care issues during a pivotal era in American history.

Continue Reading

Frederik Ruysch

Dutch physician and anatomist
Born
March 28th, 1638 387 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1731 294 years ago — 92 years old

Frederik Ruysch was a prominent Dutch physician and anatomist, recognized for significant contributions to the fields of anatomy and pathology. He served as a professor of anatomy and surgery at the University of Amsterdam. Ruysch developed innovative preservation techniques for anatomical specimens, allowing for enhanced study and teaching of human anatomy. His meticulous work in dissecting and embalming corpses contributed to the popularization of anatomy as a scientific discipline in the 17th and early 18th centuries. The collection he created, known as the 'Ruysch Collection,' became one of the most significant anatomical collections of its time, showcasing his skill in both artistry and scientific inquiry.

Continue Reading

Salvador Espriu

Spanish author and poet
Born
July 10th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1985 40 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in Catalan literature, contributed significantly as a poet, playwright, and novelist. Works reflect themes of identity, memory, and social issues. Received numerous literary awards for contributions to the arts and culture of Catalonia. His poetry often utilized traditional forms while also exploring modernity. Served as a voice for Catalan culture during and after the Franco regime, highlighting the importance of regional language and identity.

Continue Reading