Wang Shenzhi

Founder of the Min Kingdom

Wang Shenzhi - Founder of the Min Kingdom
Born

None
None years ago

Died

December 30th, 925
1099 years ago — None years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

China

Links & References

Founded the Min Kingdom in 909 during the chaotic Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Established a regime that maintained a level of independence from the central authorities of the time. Set the groundwork for the regional governance of the area now known as Fujian Province in China. Governed until death in 925, shaping local politics and culture during his reign.

Founded the Min Kingdom in 909

Established regional governance in Fujian

Other People Who Died on December 30th

Luise Rainer

German-English actress with Academy Awards
Born
January 12th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2014 10 years ago — 104 years old

Born in Germany, a celebrated actress gained prominence in the 1930s. Rainer starred in films such as 'The Great Ziegfeld' and 'The Good Earth'. Her performances earned her critical acclaim and two consecutive Academy Awards for Best Actress, making her the first to achieve this feat. After a successful early career in Hollywood, she relocated to Europe, where she continued to act in various productions. Rainer's contributions to cinema during her peak years solidified her legacy in film history.

Continue Reading

Giovanni Baglione

Italian painter and art historian
Born
1566 459 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1643 381 years ago — 77 years old

Active primarily in the early 17th century, this individual gained prominence as a painter and historian of art. His contributions include several notable religious paintings and portraits, showcasing the style and themes of the Baroque period. He documented the lives and works of other artists of the time, providing valuable insights into art history. His most significant work, 'Il Modo di Regolare la Pittura', served as an important text on painting techniques and principles, reflecting the artistic practices of his era. The painter's rivalry with Caravaggio also marked his career, which influenced subsequent generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Dawn Wells

Television actress from Gilligan's Island
Born
October 18th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2020 4 years ago — 82 years old

An actress recognized for portraying Mary Ann Summers on the classic television series Gilligan's Island, which aired from 1964 to 1967. Wells began her career in the entertainment industry as a model after winning the title of Miss Nevada in 1959. Following her role on Gilligan's Island, Wells made guest appearances on various TV shows, including The Brady Bunch and Roseanne. She also participated in several theatrical productions and appeared in television films, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Continue Reading

John Gregory Dunne

Novelist and screenwriter of 'Play It as It Lays'
Born
May 25th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2003 21 years ago — 71 years old

An American novelist, screenwriter, and critic contributed significantly to literature and film through a career spanning several decades. Authored several novels, including 'Play It as It Lays', which explored themes of despair and disillusionment in modern society. Collaborated with wife Joan Didion on screenplays such as 'Panic in Needle Park' and 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution'. Additionally, served as a critic for various publications, offering insights into contemporary American culture. Dunne's writing often reflected personal experiences and societal observations, garnering attention for its incisive prose and depth of characterization.

Continue Reading

Grigori Rasputin

Russian mystic and advisor to royalty
Born
January 21st, 1869 156 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1916 108 years ago — 47 years old

Born in Siberia, a mystic developed a following among the Russian aristocracy. Gained influence over the imperial family, particularly Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra, through his alleged healing abilities, especially during the Tsarevich Alexei's hemophilia crisis. His controversial presence escalated tensions with government officials and the public. Rasputin was murdered in 1916 by nobles aiming to save the monarchy from his perceived negative influence.

Continue Reading

Egwin of Evesham

Bishop of Worcester and saint
Died
December 30th, 717 1307 years ago — None years old

Served as Bishop of Worcester from 693 until death in 717. Founded the monastery at Evesham, which became an important religious center. Canonized as a saint, recognized for contributions to the church and for promoting monastic life in England. His feast day is celebrated on December 30.

Continue Reading