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April


April 19

Ælfheah of Canterbury (Anglican, Catholic)
FEAST

Ælfheah of Canterbury: A Saint of Unity and Devotion

Ælfheah, also known as Alphege, was the Archbishop of Canterbury during the late 10th century and a significant figure in both Anglican and Catholic traditions. His life remains a potent symbol of faith, devotion, and sacrifice in the history of the Christian Church in England...

Conrad of Ascoli
FEAST

Conrad of Ascoli: The Scholarly Luminary of the 13th Century

Conrad of Ascoli (circa 1250–1320) stands as a remarkable figure in the landscape of medieval scholarship. His contributions to philosophy, science, and theology marked a pivotal period in the evolution of thought during the late Middle Ages...

Emma of Lesum
FEAST

Emma of Lesum: The Enigmatic Figure of Medieval Germany

Emma of Lesum is a historical figure shrouded in mystery, known primarily for her connections to the early medieval nobility of Northern Germany. Her life, marked by intrigue and political significance, reflects the complexities of power dynamics in a transforming Europe during the 10th century...

Expeditus
FEAST

Discovering the Legacy of Saint Expeditus: Patron of Urgent Causes

Saint Expeditus is a figure revered by many for his abilities to intercede in urgent matters. He is often sought by those in need of swift assistance, making him a popular saint in various Christian traditions...

George of Antioch
FEAST

George of Antioch: The Icon of Byzantine Art and Architecture

George of Antioch holds a prominent place in the annals of Byzantine art and architecture. Born around the 11th century in Antioch, he became renowned for his exceptional contributions to church architecture and mosaic art, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the Byzantine Empire...

Olaus and Laurentius Petri (Lutheran)
FEAST

Olaus and Laurentius Petri: Pioneers of Lutheran Reformation in Sweden

Olaus and Laurentius Petri were two pivotal figures in the Lutheran Reformation in Sweden during the 16th century. Their contributions significantly shaped the religious landscape of the country and laid the foundation for the establishment of Lutheranism in Sweden...


Events

  • In 2021, NASA's Ingenuity helicopter made history as the first aircraft to successfully achieve powered flight on another planet, showcasing unprecedented advancements in aerospace technology and exploration.

  • In 2020, a tragic mass shooting in Nova Scotia, Canada, resulted in the deaths of 22 individuals, alongside the perpetrator, marking it as the deadliest killing spree in Canadian history.

  • In 2013, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, a suspect in the Boston Marathon bombing, was killed during a police shootout. His younger brother, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, was subsequently apprehended while hiding in a boat in a Watertown backyard. This shocking event highlighted the intense manhunt that captivated the nation and led to significant discussions about security and terrorism.

  • In 2011, Fidel Castro stepped down as First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba, a position he had held since July 1961, marking a significant shift in the country's leadership.

  • In 2005, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was elected as the 265th pope, taking the name Pope Benedict XVI. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Catholic Church.

  • In 2001, the Space Shuttle Endeavour was launched on mission STS-100, transporting the advanced Canadarm2 to the International Space Station. This pivotal mission played a crucial role in enhancing robotic operations in space.

  • In 2000, Air Philippines Flight 541 tragically crashed in Samal, Davao del Norte, resulting in the loss of all 131 passengers and crew members on board. This devastating incident highlights the risks associated with air travel and remains a significant event in aviation history.

  • In 1999, the German Bundestag made a historic move back to Berlin, marking a significant milestone in the country's political landscape.

  • On April 19, 1995, the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City was tragically bombed, resulting in the deaths of 168 individuals, including 19 children under the age of six. This devastating act of terrorism remains one of the deadliest attacks on American soil, profoundly impacting the nation and leading to significant changes in security measures.

  • In 1993, the 51-day FBI siege of the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas, concluded tragically with a devastating fire. This incident claimed the lives of 76 individuals, including 18 children under the age of 10. Explore the events surrounding this pivotal moment in U.S. history and its lasting impact.


Births

  • Jackson Merrill

    2003 – Jackson Merrill, American baseball player

  • Loren Gray

    2002 – Loren Gray, American singer and internet personality

  • Kelly Olynyk

    1991 – Kelly Olynyk, Canadian basketball player

  • Kim Chiu

    1990 – Kim Chiu, Filipino actress, singer, and dancer

  • Jackie Bradley Jr.

    1990 – Jackie Bradley Jr., American baseball player

  • Simu Liu

    1989 – Simu Liu, Canadian actor

  • Maria Sharapova

    1987 – Maria Sharapova, Russian tennis player

  • Joe Hart

    1987 – Joe Hart, English footballer

  • Candace Parker

    1986 – Candace Parker, American basketball player

  • Joe Mauer

    1983 – Joe Mauer, American baseball player

Deaths

  • Daniel Dennett

    2024 – Daniel Dennett, American philosopher and author (b. 1942)

  • Moonbin

    2023 – Moonbin, South Korean singer and actor (b. 1998)

  • Jim Steinman

    2021 – Jim Steinman, American composer, lyricist (b. 1947)

  • Walter Mondale

    2021 – Walter Mondale, American politician, 42nd Vice President of the United States (b. 1928)

  • Patricio Aylwin

    2016 – Patricio Aylwin, Chilean politician (b. 1918)

  • Al Neuharth

    2013 – Al Neuharth, American journalist, author, and publisher, founded USA Today (b. 1924)

  • François Jacob

    2013 – François Jacob, French biologist and academic, Nobel Prize laureate (b. 1920)

  • Levon Helm

    2012 – Levon Helm, American musician and actor (b. 1940)

  • Elisabeth Sladen

    2011 – Elisabeth Sladen, English actress (b. 1946)

  • J. G. Ballard

    2009 – J. G. Ballard, English novelist, short story writer, and essayist (b. 1930)