William Adams
Sailor and navigator of Japan
Born
September 24th, 1564
460 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1620
404 years ago — 55 years old
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
England
Links & References
Born in 1564 in England, played a significant role in early European exploration of Japan. Joined the Dutch East India Company and became one of the first Westerners to reach Japan. Established a relationship with Tokugawa Ieyasu and was appointed to an important position in the shogun's court. Provided advice on Western technology and trade, aiding in the social and cultural exchanges between Japan and Europe. Adams's experiences were later described in the book 'The Twelve Gates', contributing to the understanding of Japan during the early 17th century.
First Englishman to visit Japan
Advisor to Tokugawa Ieyasu
Other People Born on September 24th
Gerry Marsden
A prominent figure in the music scene, contributed significantly to the Merseybeat movement in the early 1960s. Led the band Gerry and the Pacemakers, achieving widespread success with hits such as 'Ferry Cross the Mersey' and 'You'll Never Walk Alone'. The latter became an anthem for Liverpool Football Club. The band's energetic performances and melodic songs were crucial in establishing the British Invasion in the United States. Continued to perform throughout his life, gaining recognition for his enduring musical contributions.
Continue ReadingPetri Pasanen
A Finnish footballer played primarily as a defender. Developed his early career in youth football before joining the professional ranks. Played for clubs including FC Haka and Werder Bremen, where part of the squad contributed to significant achievements in the Bundesliga. Represented the Finnish national team multiple times, participating in various international competitions. Retired from professional football and transitioned to coaching.
Continue ReadingTommy Armour
A prominent golfer and sportscaster, this individual became one of the first celebrities in professional golf. Competed in the early 20th century, achieving significant success on the PGA Tour. Won the U.S. Open in 1927, along with victories at the 1930 PGA Championship and the 1931 Western Open. Transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, providing commentary and analysis for golf tournaments, influencing the way golf was presented to audiences. Authored several instructional books on golfing techniques that contributed to the sport’s educational resources.
Continue ReadingF.L.Æ. Kunzen
Born in 1761, this composer and conductor had significant influence in the realms of music during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Specializing in operas, contributions to the genre included compositions that showcased both dramatic and lyrical elements. Active in Germany and Denmark, productions reached audiences across Europe, reflecting the cultural exchanges of the time. In addition to composing, also held positions as a conductor, leading various orchestras and opera companies. The distinguished career included mentorship of younger musicians, influencing the next generation of composers.
Continue ReadingHubie Brooks
Played Major League Baseball primarily as a third baseman and outfielder from 1980 to 1994. Most notable tenure was with the New York Mets, where contributions helped the team secure a National League pennant in 1986. Also played for the Montreal Expos and the Los Angeles Dodgers, earning recognition for consistent hitting and fielding. Selected as an All-Star in 1985 during his time with the Mets, showcasing a strong offensive performance throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJim McKay
A prominent sportscaster and journalist, this individual became a leading voice in American sports broadcasting. He joined ABC Sports in the 1950s and became a pivotal figure in covering major sporting events. His work included hosting the prestigious 'Wide World of Sports,' which introduced various sports to a nationwide audience. Reporting on the 1972 Munich Olympics tragedy marked a significant moment in his career, showcasing his ability to blend sports and journalism under exceptional circumstances. He received numerous accolades for his contributions to sports media, including the National Sportscaster of the Year award multiple times and induction into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 16th
Irwin Shaw
An author and screenwriter contributed significantly to American literature and film. Wrote novels such as 'Rich Man, Poor Man' and 'The Young Lions', which explored themes of success, war, and human relationships. Worked as a screenwriter for various Hollywood films, including adaptations of his own literary works. Shaw's plays and stories have been published in prestigious magazines, reflecting a strong narrative style and engaging character development.
Continue ReadingMehmed VI
Born in 1861, served as the last Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1918 until the abolition of the sultanate in 1922. His reign coincided with the tumultuous period of World War I and the subsequent occupation of Istanbul. Oversaw the empire during significant political and social changes, including the rise of nationalist movements. After the defeat of the Ottoman Empire, fled to Italy. His reign marked the end of a centuries-old dynasty that had ruled over vast territories, including parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Continue ReadingLeonidas Paraskevopoulos
Served as a general in the Greek army and held significant political positions. Participated in various military campaigns, contributing to Greece's military strategies during his tenure. Became Minister for Military Affairs and contributed to the development of military policies and reforms. Actively involved in Greek politics during the early 20th century, participating in multiple government formations and discussions. His work had a lasting influence on military organization in Greece.
Continue ReadingGian Maria Visconti
Ruled as Duke of Milan from 1402 until death in 1412. Reign characterized by efforts to consolidate power and expand territorial control. Faced conflict with various factions and nobles in northern Italy. The period marked by military campaigns against rival states. Experienced turmoil due to internal strife within the Visconti family. Death led to a power struggle for succession.
Continue ReadingJames Agee
A prominent American novelist, screenwriter, and critic, contributions include the novel 'A Death in the Family', which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1958. Agee crafted essays and screenplays that explored social issues and human experiences, establishing a significant voice in literature and film. His collaboration with photographer Walker Evans on 'Let Us Now Praise Famous Men' provided a nuanced portrayal of impoverished families in the South during the Great Depression. Agee's work often combined elements of autobiography and journalism, reflecting a deep understanding of his subjects.
Continue ReadingJoseph Fourier
A prominent mathematician and physicist, contributed significantly to the study of heat transfer and vibrations. Developed Fourier series, which express functions as sums of sines and cosines, enabling solutions in various fields including engineering, physics, and signal processing. Authored 'The Analytical Theory of Heat,' establishing the basis for heat conduction analysis. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sciences and was involved in the political sphere during the French Revolution, including governance in Egypt under Napoleon.
Continue Reading