Sixtus IV

Pope who initiated the Sistine Chapel

Sixtus IV - Pope who initiated the Sistine Chapel
Born

1414
611 years ago

Died

August 12th, 1484
541 years ago — 70 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Vatican City

Links & References

Served as pope from 1471 until 1484. Oversaw significant religious and cultural advancements within the Catholic Church. Commissioned the construction of the Sistine Chapel, which later became an artistic milestone in Renaissance architecture. Implemented reforms in the Church, including measures to enhance papal authority and improve the administration of justice. Played a vital role in the politics of the Italian city-states, often acting as a mediator in disputes.

Commissioned the Sistine Chapel

Strengthened papal authority

Implemented judicial reforms

Other People Who Died on August 12th

Pauline Maier

American historian focused on Revolution
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old

Specialized in early American history with a focus on the American Revolution and its implications. Authored several influential books including 'American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence,' which examined the creation of the Declaration of Independence and its philosophical underpinnings. Contributed to the understanding of colonial and revolutionary politics through extensive research and publications. Served as a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, influencing many students through dedicated teaching and mentorship.

Continue Reading

Mike O'Neill

Baseball manager and player for the St. Louis Cardinals
Born
October 5th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1959 66 years ago — 81 years old

An Irish-American baseball player and manager, he played as an outfielder and had a significant career in Major League Baseball. O'Neill played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals and the Philadelphia Phillies. Following his playing career, he transitioned into management, leading several teams, particularly in minor league baseball. His tenure in baseball spanned over a decade, during which he earned respect for his strategic approach to the game.

Continue Reading

DJ Arafat

Ivorian DJ and singer, pioneer of Coupé-Décalé
Born
1986 39 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2019 6 years ago — 33 years old

A prominent figure in Ivorian music, this artist significantly shaped the Coupé-Décalé genre, which blends rhythm and dance with elements of traditional African music. Rising to prominence in the early 2000s, the artist produced numerous hits that resonated with fans across West Africa. The artist's lively performances and charismatic presence helped foster a vibrant nightlife culture in Côte d'Ivoire. Collaborations with other artists further solidified the artist's place in contemporary African music. An untimely death in 2019 shocked fans at the age of 33, but the influence on the music scene continues to be felt.

Continue Reading

Merv Griffin

Television producer of Jeopardy! & Wheel of Fortune
Born
July 6th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2007 18 years ago — 82 years old

An actor, singer, and television producer created the popular game shows "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune." The game shows have become iconic in American television culture. Griffin initially found success as a performer in various stages and television formats before transitioning to production. Notably, he also wrote the theme music for both shows, which contributed to their recognition and longevity. His work in television spanned several decades until passing in 2007.

Continue Reading

Dorothy Mackaill

Actress in silent films and musicals
Born
March 4th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1990 35 years ago — 87 years old

Born in England, this actress achieved prominence in silent films and transitioned to talkies. Gained recognition for performances in films during the 1920s and 1930s. Starred in notable movies such as 'The Man Who Came Back' and 'Three Wise Fools.' Also pursued a career in music, showcasing vocal talent in various productions. Relocated to the United States, contributing to the entertainment industry on both sides of the Atlantic.

Continue Reading

Sakuma Shōzan

Scholar and politician in Japan
Born
1811 214 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1864 161 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent scholar and politician, contributed to the modernization efforts in Japan during the late Edo period. Advocated for Western learning and technology, promoting education reform and military enhancement. Engaged in political discourse, aligning with progressive forces that sought to strengthen Japan amidst foreign pressures. His works emphasized the importance of adopting foreign knowledge while preserving Japanese culture.

Continue Reading