Shah Jahan
Mughal emperor and architect of the Taj Mahal

Born
January 5th, 1592
433 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1666
359 years ago — 74 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
India
Links & References
Ascended to the throne in 1628 as the fifth Mughal emperor. His reign from 1628 to 1658 was marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra, a mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Jahan's rule also saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire and a flourishing of culture and the arts. His later years were marred by conflict with his son, Aurangzeb, who eventually imprisoned him.
Constructed the Taj Mahal
Expanded the Mughal Empire
Other People Born on January 5th
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
Served as the 4th President of Pakistan from 1971 to 1973 and later as Prime Minister from 1973 to 1977. Established the Pakistan People's Party in 1967, which became a significant political force in the country. Introduced sweeping social and economic reforms, including nationalization of key industries and land reforms. Oversaw the drafting of the 1973 Constitution, which remains in effect today. His tenure ended with his ousting in a military coup.
Continue ReadingStuart Flanagan
Professional rugby league player played for the Wests Tigers and later for the Gold Coast Titans in the National Rugby League. Flanagan was a talented halfback and represented Australia at the under-20 level. His career spanned several years during which he made significant contributions to his teams, showcasing skill and determination on the field.
Continue ReadingDexter Bean
Started racing in karting and transitioned to stock car racing. Competed in the NASCAR series, participating in various events. Achieved attention for both his craft and determination within the racing community. Has driven for multiple teams, gaining experience and recognition in the sport.
Continue ReadingNikola Kalinić
Born in 1988, a professional footballer played as a forward. Developed early career at Hajduk Split, later moving to clubs including Fiorentina, where contributed to significant successes in Serie A. Transferred to AC Milan, continuing to establish presence in top-tier football. Internationally, represented national team in UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingNori Aoki
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 2012 with the Milwaukee Brewers. Played for several teams including the Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, and Seattle Mariners. Achieved All-Star status in 2014 while with the Giants. Contributed to the team's success with a focus on batting average and on-base percentage.
Continue ReadingJuan Carlos I of Spain
Born in 1938, the individual became King of Spain in 1975 following the death of Francisco Franco. His reign marked the transition of Spain from dictatorship to democracy. Significant constitutional reforms were instituted during this period, including the 1978 Constitution, which established Spain as a parliamentary monarchy with a democratic framework. The individual played a crucial role in navigating the country through political turmoil, including the attempted coup in 1981. After ruling for several decades, abdicated the throne in 2014 in favor of his son, Felipe VI, leading to a new generation in the Spanish monarchy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 22nd
Robert Choquette
An influential figure in Canadian literature, produced a significant body of work including poetry and novels. Served as a diplomat, representing Canada in various capacities abroad. His poetic contributions enriched the literary landscape of the country. Focused on themes of identity and culture, reflecting the Canadian experience during his lifetime.
Continue ReadingMiles Lerman
A Holocaust survivor who actively participated in raising awareness about the Holocaust and advocating for Jewish rights. Helped to establish the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and played a role in preserving Holocaust education. Lerman's experiences during the Holocaust propelled a lifelong commitment to human rights activism.
Continue ReadingAnne Hébert
A prominent figure in Canadian literature, contributed significantly through poetry and novels. Published major works such as 'Les Fous de Bassan' and 'Kamouraska', which explore complex themes of identity, isolation, and societal struggles. Received numerous awards for literary excellence, including the Governor General's Award for Fiction.
Continue ReadingBilly Werber
An American baseball player and coach played as a third baseman and outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1930 to 1942. Established a playing career primarily with the Philadelphia Athletics and the New York Yankees. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching, serving as a coach for several teams, including the University of New Mexico. Contributed to the development of players in college baseball.
Continue ReadingDavid Edward Hughes
A Welsh-American physicist contributed significantly to the field of acoustics through the invention of the microphone. This invention was pivotal in the development of sound technology. His work in electrical engineering also included innovations in telegraphy and the study of electromagnetic waves. Hughes's contributions enabled advances in communication and sound reproduction.
Continue ReadingGeorge Holyoake
A prominent English secularist, co-operator, and newspaper editor, contributed significantly to the secular movement in the 19th century. Established the term 'secularism' to advocate for the separation of religion from public affairs. Edited and published various periodicals, including the Secular Review and the reasoner, which emphasized rational thought and humanist values. Actively involved in cooperative movements and social reforms, promoting mutual cooperation to improve living conditions for working-class individuals.
Continue Reading