Tokugawa Tsunayoshi
Japanese shōgun and ruler
The fifth shōgun of the Tokugawa shogunate, ruled from 1680 until death in 1709. Implemented policies promoting the welfare of animals, which influenced laws and societal norms during the Edo period. The reign saw increased urbanization and cultural developments, especially in Edo. Support for the arts flourished under his leadership, with significant contributions to literature and theater. Facilitated the growth of educational institutions that shaped future Japanese thought and culture.
Established the 'forbidding of cruelty to animals' law
Promoted the cultural arts and education in Edo
Other People Born on February 23rd
Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow
Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church
Born
February 23rd, 1929 97 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2008 17 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the Patriarch of Moscow and all Rus' from 1990 until 2008. Played a significant role in the revival of the Russian Orthodox Church after the fall of the Soviet Union. Promoted interfaith dialogue and worked to restore the church's influence in Russian society and beyond. Represented the church during international religious gatherings and was involved in various ecumenical efforts.
Continue ReadingJosh Gad
Actor and voice of Olaf in Frozen
Born
February 23rd, 1981 45 years ago
An American actor, producer, and screenwriter has contributed to film and theatre. Gained recognition for voicing Olaf in the animated films Frozen and Frozen II. Also starred in the Broadway production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Appeared in television shows such as The Elected and 1600 Penn. Engaged in various projects, including the role of LeFou in the live-action adaptation of Beauty and the Beast.
Continue ReadingMido
Egyptian footballer and manager, sportscaster
Born
February 23rd, 1983 43 years ago
A professional footballer, manager, and sportscaster, played as a striker. Had a successful playing career with clubs including Ajax, Roma, and Middlesbrough, and represented the Egypt national team. His international career saw participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, winning the tournament in 2006. Transitioned to management and sportscasting after retiring from professional play.
Continue ReadingResidente
Puerto Rican singer-songwriter and performer
Born
February 23rd, 1978 48 years ago
Born in 1978, this artist gained recognition as a member of the Latin hip-hop duo Calle 13. The music group garnered multiple Grammy Awards and Latin Grammy Awards for their innovative sound that blended reggaeton, hip hop, and folk music. After pursuing a solo career, the artist released a self-titled debut album in 2017. The album received critical acclaim and further solidified the artist's place in Latin music. Known for addressing social issues and political themes in lyrics, the artist has been a vocal advocate for various causes.
Continue ReadingKazuya Kamenashi
Japanese singer-songwriter and actor
Born
February 23rd, 1986 40 years ago
Performed as a member of the popular Japanese boy band KAT-TUN. Gained recognition for leading roles in television dramas such as 'Nobuta wo Produce' and 'Joker: Yurusarezaru Sosakan'. Released several solo singles and albums, contributing to the J-pop genre. Also participated in various stage productions, showcasing versatility in performance.
Continue ReadingGareth Barry
Professional footballer, all-time Premier League appearance leader
Born
February 23rd, 1981 45 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Career spanned from 1997 to 2018, representing clubs such as Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, and West Bromwich Albion. Achieved significant success with Manchester City, including winning the Premier League title in the 2011-2012 season. Earned 653 Premier League appearances, setting a record for the most appearances in the league's history. Represented the England national team, earning 53 caps between 2000 and 2013, participating in UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 19th
Georg Büchner
German playwright and revolutionary writer
Born
October 17th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1837 189 years ago — 23 years old
A German-Swiss poet and playwright, created influential works in the early 19th century. Büchner's explosive style and incisive depictions of social issues made significant contributions to modern drama. The play 'Woyzeck' remains a seminal piece in theatrical literature, exploring themes of mental illness and social injustice. Another noted play, 'Danton's Death', presents a critical view of the French Revolution and the complexities of revolutionary politics. Büchner's writings reflect a strong commitment to social change and were influenced by his involvement in political movements, including his association with the Vormärz period.
Continue ReadingCelia Franca
Dancer and director, founded National Ballet
Born
June 25th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2007 19 years ago — 85 years old
Originated in England, this individual moved to Canada and established a prominent ballet company, becoming a significant figure in the Canadian arts scene. In 1951, the company was founded, providing opportunities for Canadian dancers and expanding the reach of ballet in the country. The artist directed the company for over three decades, fostering the development of numerous productions and cultivating talent in the ballet community. The legacy includes significant contributions to Canadian culture through performance and education, influencing future generations of dancers and choreographers.
Continue ReadingJohn Basilone
U.S. Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipient
Born
November 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1945 81 years ago — 28 years old
Served as a United States Marine Corps sergeant during World War II. Participated in the Battle of Guadalcanal and the Battle of Iwo Jima. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Guadalcanal. His actions contributed significantly to the success of the campaign.
Continue ReadingSamuel Willenberg
Polish-Israeli sculptor and painter
Born
February 16th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2016 10 years ago — 93 years old
A Polish-Israeli artist created impactful sculptures and paintings. Initially imprisoned in a concentration camp during World War II, experience influenced artistic expression. After the war, migrated to Israel and dedicated efforts to telling the stories of Holocaust survivors through art. Participated in numerous exhibitions, showcasing significant works that emphasized the human experience and memory. Engaged in teaching and mentoring young artists, contributing to cultural dialogues within Israel.
Continue ReadingHarper Lee
American author of 'To Kill a Mockingbird'
Born
April 28th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2016 10 years ago — 89 years old
An American author wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel 'To Kill a Mockingbird', published in 1960. The novel addresses serious issues such as racial injustice and moral growth in the Deep South during the 1930s. Alongside the critical acclaim received for this work, it gained widespread popularity and is often included in school curricula. In 2015, a second novel, 'Go Set a Watchman', was published, which was written before 'To Kill a Mockingbird' but was set two decades later. This work revisited the original characters and explored themes of ethics and social change.
Continue ReadingDonald Richie
Author and film critic of Japanese cinema
Born
April 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2013 13 years ago — 88 years old
An American-Japanese author and film critic, contributed significantly to the understanding of Japanese culture and cinema. Spent much time in Japan, where works reflected deep engagement with the country's film industry. Wrote extensively about Japanese cinema, providing insights that shaped Western appreciation of the medium. Authored several influential books including 'A Hundred Years of Japanese Film', which explored the history and evolution of Japanese filmmaking. His film criticism appeared in various publications and he became a prominent voice in cinematic discourse.
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