Roger II of Sicily
King of Sicily, established a kingdom
Born
December 22nd, 1095
929 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1154
871 years ago — 58 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Italy
Links & References
Ruled from 1130 to 1154, this individual unified Sicily under a single kingdom, establishing a centralized and prosperous realm. Through military campaigns, expanded territory in Southern Italy and North Africa. Promoted a culture of tolerance and intellectual exchange, blending Arabic and Latin influences in governance and arts. The royal court attracted scholars and poets, fostering advancements in science and philosophy. Actively supported trade, leading to economic growth in the region. The individual consolidated power through strategic marriages and alliances throughout Europe.
Founded the Kingdom of Sicily in 1130
Defeated Byzantine forces to expand Sicilian territory
Promoted a flourishing cultural and intellectual environment
Other People Born on December 22nd
Éder
Bissau-Portuguese footballer played as a forward in various European leagues. Represented Portugal's national team and contributed to winning the UEFA Euro 2016, becoming a prominent figure in the tournament. Also participated in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Played for clubs like Swansea City, Braga, and Lille OSC, making significant appearances and scoring crucial goals. His key moment came with a decisive goal in the Euro 2016 final against France, securing the championship for Portugal.
Continue ReadingJohn Hartle
A prominent motorcycle racer in the 1950s and 1960s, achieved significant success in various competitions. Competed in the MotoGP world championship and participated in the Isle of Man TT races. Demonstrated skill and determination on the racetrack, securing a reputation within the sport. Continued to engage with motorcycle racing even after retirement, contributing to the community.
Continue ReadingEmmanuel Olisadebe
Played professional football as a striker. Started career at the Nigerian club Julius Berger before moving to Europe. Played for Polish club Polonia Warsaw, contributing to significant performances in the Polish league. Represented the Polish national team, gaining recognition for participation in major international tournaments. Was part of the squad at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, representing Poland on the world stage. His dual heritage allowed for a unique career that bridged both African and European football.
Continue ReadingLuther Campbell
Born in 1960, contributed significantly to the hip hop genre as a member of 2 Live Crew. The group became prominent in the late 1980s and early 1990s, releasing influential albums that shaped the Southern hip hop scene. Their work included the album 'As Nasty As They Wanna Be', recognized as the first album to be deemed legally obscene in the United States. Apart from music, ventured into acting, featuring in films that showcased his personality and artistic style. Active in various social issues, advocating for freedom of speech and the First Amendment rights through artistic expression.
Continue ReadingEdgard Varèse
Born in France, a composition career began at an early age. Relocated to the United States in 1915 and became a key figure in the early 20th-century avant-garde movement. Created groundbreaking works that incorporated unconventional structures and innovative instrumentation. Advocated for the use of electronic music, influencing generations of composers. Major works include 'Ionisation,' which utilized percussion as a primary focus, and 'Amériques,' showcasing innovative orchestration techniques.
Continue ReadingLady Bird Johnson
Served as the 38th First Lady of the United States from 1963 to 1969. Advocated for environmental conservation and beautification initiatives, emphasizing the importance of natural beauty and public spaces. Launched the Highway Beautification Act of 1965, which aimed to improve the appearance of roadsides across the country. Worked on programs that encouraged planting wildflowers along highways and urban areas to enhance landscapes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 26th
Roy Eldridge
A prominent jazz trumpet player, exemplified a vigorous and innovative playing style. Played in the big bands of the 1930s and 1940s, collaborating with figures such as Benny Goodman and Gene Krupa. Contributed significantly to the bebop movement in jazz music. His recordings with groups like the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra showcased technical skill and emotional depth. Eldridge's technique and approach influenced many trumpet players and left a lasting legacy on the genre. Throughout the career, performances at prestigious venues, including the Apollo Theater, further solidified his reputation within the jazz community. Through a direct approach to improvisation, he became a key figure in shaping jazz music during his era.
Continue ReadingJoshua Rowley
Served as an admiral in the Royal Navy during the 18th century. Played a crucial role in naval operations, particularly in the Caribbean and the American Revolutionary War. Commanded several ships, including HMS Culloden and HMS Juno. Known for leadership in engagements against French and Spanish fleets, contributing to British naval dominance during the period.
Continue ReadingKarl Davydov
A prominent cellist and composer, contributed significantly to the development of cello repertoire during the 19th century. Served as the professor of cello at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, influencing a generation of musicians. Composed numerous works for cello, chamber ensembles, and orchestras, demonstrating a blend of technical proficiency and lyrical quality. Engaged in performances across Europe, enhancing the visibility of cello as a solo instrument in classical music.
Continue ReadingJoseph Wapner
Served as a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court and later became a television personality. Gained recognition as the presiding judge on the reality courtroom series 'The People's Court', which premiered in 1981 and popularized the genre of court shows. Wapner's rigorous but fair adjudication style contributed to the show's success and longevity. His contributions to the legal and television fields made him a well-recognized figure in American popular culture.
Continue ReadingKarl Jaspers
Contributed significantly to the fields of psychiatry and philosophy, focusing on existentialism and the nature of human existence. Developed the concept of 'limit situations', which pertain to the existential crises individuals face. Worked extensively on the philosophy of psychology and the relationship between psychiatry and ethics. Authored several influential works including 'Philosophy of Existence' and 'Man in the Modern Age'.
Continue ReadingStéphane Hessel
A diplomat and author, played a significant role in French politics and literature. Contributed to the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Authored 'Indignez-vous!', a bestseller advocating for social justice and political engagement at a global level. Engaged in various social and political movements throughout the latter half of the 20th century, influencing debates on human rights and democracy.
Continue Reading