Victor Emmanuel II of Italy
King of Italy and first Italian king
Served as King of Sardinia from 1849 and became the first King of Italy in 1861. Played a pivotal role in the unification of Italy, overseeing significant military campaigns and political maneuvers that consolidated various states into a single nation. His reign witnessed the annexation of territories, including Lombardy and the Two Sicilies, ultimately leading to the establishment of Italy as a kingdom. Held the throne until death in 1878, leaving a legacy in the formation of modern Italy.
First King of a unified Italy
Oversaw the unification process
Reigned over the Kingdom of Sardinia
Other People Born on March 14th
Jerry Greenfield
Businessman, co-founder of Ben & Jerry's
Born
March 14th, 1951 75 years ago
Co-founded an ice cream company in 1978 with a focus on quality and unique flavors. The brand gained recognition for its commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability. The company became known for its innovative product offerings and engaging flavors, which contributed to its rapid growth and popularity. In 2000, the company was sold to Unilever but continued its philanthropic efforts.
Continue ReadingVilhelm Bjerknes
Physicist and Meteorologist
Born
March 14th, 1862 164 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1951 75 years ago — 89 years old
Contributions included essential advancements in meteorology and the development of weather forecasting techniques. Established the Bjerknes theorem, essential in fluid dynamics. Worked on the interaction between atmospheric and oceanic phenomena, leading to a deeper understanding of weather patterns. Played a significant role in the establishment of meteorological institutions in Norway.
Continue ReadingJosé Núñez de Cáceres
Dominican Independence leader and writer
Born
March 14th, 1772 254 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1846 179 years ago — 74 years old
A significant figure in the early history of the Dominican Republic, this individual led the independence movement against Spanish colonial rule in 1821. Advocating for freedom and self-governance, played a key role in the short-lived declaration of independence. In addition to political efforts, engaged in writing that contributed to the intellectual landscape of the time, exploring themes of national identity and governance. Involved in subsequent political movements and developments, contributing to shaping the future of the nation.
Continue ReadingMike Lazaridis
Businessman, founder of BlackBerry Limited
Born
March 14th, 1961 65 years ago
An entrepreneur co-founded BlackBerry Limited, a company that revolutionized mobile communication by introducing the first smartphones with email capabilities. Under the leadership, BlackBerry became synonymous with business communication in the 2000s. The company achieved significant market presence, with its devices widely used by professionals around the world. Beyond technology, contributions to research and education were made through philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the Lazaridis Institute, focused on advanced research in quantum computing.
Continue ReadingKoča Popović
Yugoslav politician and Partisan commander
Born
March 14th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
1992 34 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent figure in Yugoslav history, this individual played a significant role during World War II as a Divisional Commander of the First Proletarian Division of the Yugoslav Partisans. Taking part in the resistance against Axis forces, organized military operations in various regions. After the war, engaged in politics and held various important positions within the Yugoslav government, contributing to the establishment of socialist policies. An influential leader in the post-war period and involved in international relations for Yugoslavia.
Continue ReadingJohn Lane
English publisher, co-founded The Bodley Head
Born
March 14th, 1854 172 years ago
Died
1925 101 years ago — 71 years old
Co-founded The Bodley Head, a significant publishing house in London, which published various influential authors and works during the early 20th century. Focused on bringing new voices to the literary scene, curated a catalogue that included notable writers and themes. Played a role in the promotion of modernist literature through innovative publishing strategies, establishing a reputation for quality and literary merit.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 9th
Paul du Toit
South African painter and sculptor
Born
October 31st, 1965 60 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2014 12 years ago — 48 years old
A South African painter and sculptor focused on modern and contemporary art. Worked extensively with various mediums, integrating elements of abstraction and realism. Gained recognition for contributions to South African art, participating in numerous exhibitions both locally and internationally. Produced a body of work that included large-scale sculptures and vibrant paintings, often reflecting themes of society and culture.
Continue ReadingJames M. Buchanan
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2013 13 years ago — 94 years old
An economist and academic focused on public choice theory. Played a crucial role in establishing the field of political economy, exploring how economic analysis can be applied to political decision-making. Served as a professor at George Mason University and held positions at several other institutions. Regarded for contributions to the understanding of the mechanisms of government and markets. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1986 for work on non-technical economics.
Continue ReadingPaul Hasluck
Australian politician and historian, Governor-General
Born
April 1st, 1905 121 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1993 33 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 17th Governor-General of Australia from 1969 to 1974. Held the position of a federal minister in the Australian government, contributing to various portfolios including territories and education. Authored several historical works, emphasizing Australia's political landscape. Played a key role in shaping governmental policies and was influential in the development of the Australian Capital Territory.
Continue ReadingKazimierz Serocki
Polish pianist and composer, Symphony No. 1
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1981 45 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent Polish pianist and composer contributed to the 20th-century classical music scene. Studied at the Warsaw Conservatory and later in Paris, developing a unique style that fused traditional Polish elements with modern techniques. Composed numerous works including symphonies, concertos, and chamber music. Actively involved in the Polish music community and held various teaching positions at institutions in Poland. His compositions were featured in concerts and festivals across Europe, showcasing a dedication to both performance and education. Earned recognition for the ability to blend various musical influences and create innovative works.
Continue ReadingCountee Cullen
American poet and playwright
Born
May 30th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1946 80 years ago — 42 years old
A prominent figure during the Harlem Renaissance, the individual contributed significantly to American literature through poetry and plays. The work often explored themes of race, identity, and society, with a notable emphasis on African American experiences. Notable poetry collections include 'Color' and 'Copper Sun'. The individual also wrote plays that were performed in New York, enriching the cultural fabric of the era. In addition to literary achievements, involvement in various artistic and social circles characterized this person's career, fostering connections among contemporary thinkers and artists.
Continue ReadingAbdul Rahman Ya'kub
Malaysian lawyer and politician, Chief Minister
Born
January 3rd, 1928 98 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2015 11 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent Malaysian lawyer and politician, served as the 3rd Chief Minister of Sarawak from 1970 to 1981. Advocated for the rights and development of the local community, focusing on infrastructure and education. Contributed to the establishment of policies aimed at improving the socio-economic status of Sarawak.
Continue Reading