Wanli Emperor of China
Chinese Emperor during the Ming Dynasty

Born
1563
462 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1620
404 years ago — 57 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
China
Links & References
Ascended to the throne at a young age, leading China during a significant period of the Ming Dynasty. The reign lasted from 1572 to 1620, becoming one of the longest in Chinese history. The Wanli era is noted for initial economic prosperity and cultural achievements, including advancements in the arts and literature. However, the later years of the reign saw challenges such as political strife and bureaucratic inefficiencies, leading to a decline in the government’s effectiveness. Efforts to maintain control over the empire faced resistance from officials. Despite these issues, contributions to temple construction and maritime trade occurred during the period.
Reign as the 14th Emperor of the Ming Dynasty
Facilitated cultural achievements in arts and literature
Other People Who Died on August 18th
Don Pardo
An influential radio and television announcer, recognized for a distinctive voice and style. Significant contributions included announcing for 'Saturday Night Live' from its inception in 1975 until 2014. Pardo also provided voiceovers for various television shows and commercials. Started career in radio in the 1930s and transitioned to television during the medium's early days. Served in the U.S. Army during World War II, which interrupted his broadcasting career.
Continue ReadingB. F. Skinner
A prominent psychologist and author, focused on behaviorism and learning processes. Developed the theory of operant conditioning, emphasizing reinforcement and punishment in shaping behavior. Contributed significantly to psychological research and education methodologies. Authored several influential books, including 'Walden Two' and 'Verbal Behavior', which explored behavior analysis and its applications. Established the Skinner Box, a device used to measure behavior in controlled environments, advancing the field of experimental psychology.
Continue ReadingElmer Bernstein
Gained recognition for film scoring starting in the 1950s. Composed music for a variety of genres, producing scores for over 200 films. Collaborated with directors like Alfred Hitchcock and John Frankenheimer. Achieved critical acclaim for work in films such as "The Magnificent Seven," "To Kill a Mockingbird," and "Ghostbusters." Received Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame throughout his career. Continued to influence film music until retirement.
Continue ReadingPope Paul IV
Served as Pope from 1555 to 1559, implementing significant reforms within the Roman Catholic Church. Established the Roman Inquisition to combat heresy, reinforcing doctrinal authority. Contributed to the creation of the Index Librorum Prohibitorum, a list of prohibited books aimed at protecting the faith from corruption. Promoted the introduction of the Jewish ghetto in Rome, enforcing segregation of the Jewish population.
Continue ReadingEdward la Zouche
Served as a diplomat during the early 17th century. Held the title of 11th Baron Zouche. Participated in negotiations and diplomatic missions that shaped relations during his lifetime, particularly between England and other European powers. Engaged in courtly matters and political affairs typical of the English nobility of that era. His work contributed to the understanding of diplomatic relations in a period of transition in England's foreign policies.
Continue ReadingRicimer
Born in 405, a Roman general and politician rose to prominence during the decline of the Western Roman Empire. Serving as a military leader, he became a powerful figure in the empire's political landscape. Ricimer filled the role of de facto ruler, influencing the selection of emperors. His tenure included notable military campaigns, solidifying his influence at a time of significant turmoil and instability within the empire. Ricimer's control over the imperial throne lasted for many years, as he appointed several emperors while maintaining his position without formally accepting the title of emperor himself. The reign concluded with his death in 472, which marked a significant turning point in the empire's history.
Continue Reading