William Whitehead

English poet and playwright

William Whitehead - English poet and playwright
Born

1715
310 years ago

Died

April 14th, 1785
240 years ago — 70 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A poet and playwright, contributed significantly to English literature in the 18th century. Wrote several notable works including the play 'The School for Scandal.' Served as the Poet Laureate of Great Britain from 1757 until death in 1785. Known for his lyrical poetry and satirical plays, he reflected the social issues of the time through his art.

Served as Poet Laureate of Great Britain

Wrote 'The School for Scandal'

Published several volumes of poetry

Other People Who Died on April 14th

Henri Elzéar Taschereau

Canadian Chief Justice of Canada
Born
October 7th, 1836 188 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1911 114 years ago — 74 years old

Taschereau served as the fourth Chief Justice of Canada from 1874 until 1894. His legal career began in 1845 after being called to the bar in Lower Canada. He was appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada in 1874, where his judgments addressed various important legal issues. His tenure established important precedents in Canadian law. After retiring from the Supreme Court, he was appointed to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council, further influencing Canadian jurisprudence until his retirement.

Continue Reading

Mike Bossy

Ice hockey player and sportscaster
Born
January 22nd, 1957 68 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2022 3 years ago — 65 years old

This individual played in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the New York Islanders. Recognized for exceptional goal-scoring abilities, participated in four consecutive Stanley Cup championships from 1980 to 1983. Also had a successful career as a television sportscaster following retirement from professional play. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1991, showcasing a notable legacy in the sport.

Continue Reading

Louis of Nassau

Dutch nobleman and military leader
Born
January 10th, 1538 487 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1574 451 years ago — 36 years old

A nobleman in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule, served as a key military leader for the Protestant cause. He played a significant role in several battles and campaigns aimed at liberating the Netherlands from Habsburg control. His leadership contributed to the organization and consolidation of military strategies during this tumultuous period. He was closely associated with William of Orange and shared similar political and military objectives. His endeavors in the military resistance against Spain remained integral to the wider struggle for Dutch independence.

Continue Reading

Michel Chamillart

French politician, finance controller
Born
1652 373 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1721 304 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the Controller-General of Finances in France during the early 18th century. Held the position under King Louis XIV and managed the kingdom's financial matters during a time of significant fiscal challenges. Implemented financial policies aimed at consolidating the royal budget and addressing debt issues. Played a crucial role in the administration during the War of the Spanish Succession, navigating the complexities of wartime financing and supply.

Continue Reading

Pete Farndon

Bassist for The Pretenders
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1983 42 years ago — 31 years old

A prominent bassist contributed significantly to the rock music scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Farndon joined The Pretenders in 1978, establishing a signature sound that blended punk and new wave influences. The band released their self-titled debut album in 1980, which included hits such as 'Brass in Pocket' and 'Stop Your Sobbing'. Farndon's bass work was integral to the group's early success. After the release of the second album, Farndon was dismissed from the band in 1982 due to personal issues. His life was cut short in 1983 at the age of 30, but his contributions to music remain influential in the genre.

Continue Reading

Gina Krog

Norwegian women's rights activist
Born
June 20th, 1847 177 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1916 109 years ago — 68 years old

Active in the late 19th and early 20th century, significant contributions were made to the women’s suffrage movement in Norway. Efforts led to the establishment of the Norwegian Association for Women’s Rights in 1885. Advocacy focused on education and voting rights for women. Krog's work played a crucial role in the eventual granting of voting rights to women in Norway in 1913.

Continue Reading