Steve Beshear
Politician and 61st Governor of Kentucky
Served as the 61st Governor of Kentucky from 2007 to 2015. Focused on expanding health care access and economic development. Prior to governorship, practiced law and held roles as a state representative and Attorney General. Notable for implementing the Kentucky health care exchange and addressing pension reform.
Expanded health care access in Kentucky
Implemented the Kentucky health care exchange
Other People Born on September 21st
Leonard Cohen
Singer-songwriter and poet, 'Hallelujah'
Born
September 21st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Montreal, this artist began a career as a novelist and poet before transitioning to music. Debuted with the album 'Songs of Leonard Cohen' in 1967, showcasing a blend of folk and rock music. Themes often revolved around love, faith, and melancholy. 'Hallelujah', a track from his album 'Various Positions', gained traction and became one of his signature songs. Over the years, maintained a dedicated fan base, known for deep, resonant vocals and profound lyrics. Continued to write and perform until death in 2016, leaving a legacy of influential work in both music and literature.
Continue ReadingPope Vitalian
Pope and religious leader during the 7th century
Born
September 21st, 580 1445 years ago
Died
January 27th, 672 1354 years ago — 91 years old
Served as pope from 657 until death in 672. Vitalian contributed to the resolution of various theological disputes and promoted the adoption of Latin liturgy in the Church. He also dealt with issues regarding the Byzantine Empire and implemented reforms within the Church. His papacy is noted for maintaining ecclesiastical order and support for the welfare of his community during a turbulent period in Rome.
Continue ReadingFrancesc Macià
Catalan politician and President of Catalonia
Born
September 21st, 1859 166 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1933 92 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1859, a significant political figure in Catalonia, holding the position of President of Catalonia from 1933 until his death in 1933. As a military officer, he rose to the rank of colonel before transitioning into politics. His political career was marked by advocacy for Catalan independence and regional autonomy, leading efforts to establish a Catalan Republic. Instrumental in the formation of the Estat Català party, his leadership played a crucial role in Catalonia's political landscape during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingGirolamo Savonarola
Italian priest and reformer
Born
September 21st, 1452 573 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1498 527 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1452, served as a Dominican friar in Florence and became a prominent preacher. Advococated for church reform and denounced corruption within the clergy and secular authority. Played a vital role in the expulsion of the Medici family from Florence. Established a theocratic government that enforced strict moral regulations. His sermons attracted large crowds and his influence grew, leading to the infamous 'Bonfire of the Vanities', where secular and immoral items were burned.
Continue ReadingR. James Woolsey
Scholar and former CIA Director
Born
September 21st, 1941 84 years ago
Served as the 16th Director of Central Intelligence from 1993 to 1995, overseeing the CIA during a period of significant change post-Cold War. Contributed to national security policy and intelligence reform, focusing on issues such as terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Engaged in various roles within the government and academia, promoting understanding of intelligence operations and global security challenges.
Continue ReadingBertha of Savoy
Holy Roman Empress and consort
Born
September 21st, 1051 974 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1087 938 years ago — 36 years old
Born into the House of Savoy, this individual became the Holy Roman Empress through marriage. She served as the consort to Emperor Henry IV and played a significant role in the imperial court. Her influence was evident during a tumultuous period marked by the Investiture Controversy, a struggle between the church and the empire. Her offspring included several notable figures, ensuring her legacy within the royal lineage. Bertha's marriage solidified important political alliances in 11th-century Europe, impacting the governance of the Holy Roman Empire.
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