Wang Chongyang
Chinese religious leader and poet
Born in 1113, an influential Chinese religious leader and poet, established the Quanzhen School of Taoism. This school emphasized the integration of Taoist practices with aspects of Buddhism and Confucianism. Composed numerous poems that reflected philosophical ideas and promoted spiritual awareness. Played a crucial role in the revival of Taoism during the Song Dynasty, contributing to its development and cultural significance.
Founded the Quanzhen School of Taoism
Composed significant Taoist poetry
Other People Born on January 11th
Pierre Mendès France
French politician and Prime Minister
Born
January 11th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1982 43 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the 142nd Prime Minister of France from 1954 to 1955. As a member of the Radical-Socialist Party, played a significant role in post-World War II French politics. Advocated for decolonization and negotiated the end of the Indochina War, leading to the Geneva Accords in 1954. Focused on social reforms and economic stability during tenure.
Continue ReadingJohn Rogers
Minister and physician of early America
Born
January 11th, 1630 395 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1555 470 years ago — -75 years old
Born in England and later relocating to America, served as a minister, physician, and academic. Contributed significantly to the early development of religious and medical practices in the new world. Played a pivotal role in both community leadership and education, impacting various aspects of colonial life. Engaged with several prominent figures of the time and worked to establish institutions that supported the growth of knowledge in the community. His writings and teachings influenced future generations in both ministry and medicine.
Continue ReadingHarry Gordon Selfridge
Businessman and founder of Selfridges
Born
January 11th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1947 78 years ago — 89 years old
An American-English businessman played a pivotal role in revolutionizing retail with the establishment of Selfridges in London. Founded in 1909, this department store introduced innovative marketing strategies, including an emphasis on customer experience and influential advertising techniques. The store became synonymous with luxury and sophistication, contributing to modern shopping culture. His concepts changed how retailers interacted with consumers, creating an enduring legacy in the retail industry. Selfridge's vision led to the expansion of the Selfridges brand and set new standards in product presentation and retail space design.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-En'yū of Japan
Emperor of Japan during the Ashikaga period
Born
January 11th, 1359 666 years ago
Died
1393 632 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1359, ascended the throne in 1371 as the 98th emperor of Japan during the Ashikaga shogunate. His reign was marked by the continued influence of the shogunal government and the cultural developments of the period. The emperor remained a symbolic figure while real power was held by the shogunate. Go-En'yū played a role in the imperial court's dynamics and preservation of traditional Japanese culture during a time of political fragmentation. His reign lasted until 1382, after which he continued to be influential in the imperial succession.
Continue ReadingBernard DeVoto
American historian and author of 'Across the Wide Missouri'
Born
January 11th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1955 70 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent American historian and author with a focus on the American West. Published several influential works, emphasizing the significance of westward expansion and the natural environment. Served as an editor for Harper's Magazine, contributing to discussions on American culture and history. Won the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1944 for the work 'Across the Wide Missouri', which examined the fur trade and its impact on the American landscape and society.
Continue ReadingGeorge Curzon
English politician and Governor-General of India
Born
January 11th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1925 100 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 35th Governor-General of India from 1899 to 1905. Oversaw numerous administrative reforms during tenure, including changes to education and infrastructure. Played a key role in the Durbar of 1903, which celebrated the coronation of Edward VII. Advocated for British interests in India and addressed issues such as famine relief and railway expansion.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 22nd
Graham Staines
Missionary and translator in India
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1999 26 years ago — 58 years old
A missionary and translator focused on serving leprosy patients in India. Spent over three decades providing medical care and advocating for marginalized communities. Established a leprosy hospital and worked alongside local organizations to improve healthcare access. Contributed to translation work, helping to bridge communication gaps within underserved populations. His life and service ended tragically in 1999.
Continue ReadingFanny Bullock Workman
American mountaineer and geographer
Born
January 8th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1925 100 years ago — 66 years old
Accomplished mountaineer, geographer, and cartographer. Undertook numerous explorations in the Himalayas, researching uncharted regions and making significant contributions to the mapping of the area. Authored several books detailing experiences and findings, enhancing the understanding of geographical features. Actively promoted women's participation in mountaineering, challenging societal norms of the time.
Continue ReadingUrsula K. Le Guin
Sci-fi and fantasy novelist
Born
October 21st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — 88 years old
An influential writer in the genres of science fiction and fantasy, this author crafted complex worlds and explored themes of society and identity. Works include the Earthsea series and the novel The Left Hand of Darkness, which delves into issues of gender and sexual orientation. The author received multiple prestigious awards and accolades throughout the career, contributing significantly to speculative fiction.
Continue ReadingVincent Pallotti
Italian missionary and saint
Born
1795 230 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1850 175 years ago — 55 years old
Founded the Society of the Catholic Apostolate, which focused on promoting the faith and serving the Church. Engaged in missionary work and supported various charitable initiatives. Established a methodology for the laity's involvement in evangelization and education, significantly impacting the Catholic Church's outreach.
Continue ReadingEmpress of Southern Han
Empress of Southern Han dynasty
Died
January 22nd, 935 1090 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the empress during the Southern Han dynasty, overseeing a period known for cultural and economic growth in the region. The reign contributed to the stabilization of Southern Han power in southern China. The empress played a significant role in governance, military campaigns, and supporting cultural developments, enhancing the dynasty’s prestige.
Continue ReadingFerdinand II of León
King of León and Castile
Born
1137 888 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1188 837 years ago — 51 years old
Ascended to the throne in the 12th century, ruled over the Kingdom of León, which included parts of modern-day Spain. Strengthened the kingdom through military campaigns against the Moors and consolidated power by unifying León with Castile. Played a key role in the Reconquista, a series of campaigns aimed at reclaiming territory from Muslim rulers. Promoted the Christian faith and fostered cultural and religious development within the kingdom. Reigned until death in 1188.
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