January 28

Born as Li Shimin, he became Emperor Taizong in 626 after the Xuanwu Gate Incident. He consolidated the empire, expanded its borders, and implemented reforms that strengthened central government. Under his reign, China experienced prosperity, cultural flourishing, and military success against nomadic tribes. He supported the establishment of the imperial examination system and patronized literature and the arts. Emperor Taizong’s era is often regarded as the pinnacle of the Tang dynasty’s power and influence.

Born the daughter of King Louis X of France, she inherited the Navarrese crown in 1328. Her reign was marked by strategic diplomatic marriages, including her union with Philip of Évreux. She balanced Navarre’s interests between France and England amid the Hundred Years’ War. Joan supported economic growth and reinforced royal authority in a region caught between greater powers. Her death in 1349 marked the end of her direct lineage, but her policies shaped Navarre’s future.

Ascending the throne in 1384, Razadarit worked to consolidate power across coastal Burma. He repelled multiple invasions by the northern Kingdom of Ava, securing Hanthawaddy’s independence. Under his rule, the kingdom saw cultural and economic growth through thriving trade routes. Razadarit implemented administrative reforms and strengthened the military structure. His leadership laid the foundation for Hanthawaddy’s golden age before his death in 1421.

Born Henry Tudor, he returned from exile and claimed the English throne in 1485 after defeating Richard III. As king, he married Elizabeth of York to unite rival houses and solidify his legitimacy. He reformed royal finances through efficient tax collection and support for commerce. Henry strengthened the monarchy by reducing the power of the nobility and expanding the royal council. He died in 1509, leaving a more centralized and stable England to his son, Henry VIII.

Born in Torgau, Paul Luther studied medicine at the University of Wittenberg and later became a professor there. He conducted experimental research on the properties of mineral waters and oils, publishing detailed analyses. His works contributed to early modern chemistry, blending alchemical traditions with emerging scientific methods. Luther’s treatises offered practical insights into pharmaceutical preparations and therapeutic applications. He died in 1593, leaving a legacy as one of the foremost medical scientists of his era.

Born in Duisburg and later teaching at the University of Leiden, van Ceulen devoted his life to computing π. He developed polygonal methods to approximate pi, publishing his results in the 'Van Ceulen’s Arithmetica'. His colleagues and students honored him by engraving his calculated digits of π on his tombstone. Van Ceulen’s work exemplified the era’s blend of practical mathematics and theoretical inquiry. He died in 1610, remembered as a pioneering figure in numerical analysis and geometry.

Born in Pont-à-Mousson, Barclay mastered Latin and gained recognition for his classical scholarship. His works, including 'Euphormionis Satyricon' and 'Argenis,' combined political allegory with literary innovation. 'Argenis' became popular across Europe for its vivid narrative and exploration of religious conflicts. Barclay’s writing influenced later authors in the development of the European novel and satire. He died in 1621, leaving a lasting mark on Baroque literature.

Born Giulio Rospigliosi in Pistoia, he served in various curial roles before his election as Pope in 1667. His brief pontificate focused on reconciling factions in Europe, notably mediating tensions between France and the Holy See. Clement IX was a patron of music and drama, commissioning works by prominent Baroque artists. He elevated several saints and sought to strengthen church discipline amid theological controversies. He died in 1669, remembered for his gentle character and cultural contributions.

Born in Naples, Borelli studied at the University of Pisa under Galileo’s influence, fostering his interest in mechanics. He applied mathematical principles to physiological processes, analyzing muscle movement and blood circulation. His seminal work, 'De Motu Animalium,' demonstrated that animal bodies function like machines. Borelli also contributed to astronomy and served as a scientific advisor to the Medici court in Florence. He died in 1679, leaving a lasting legacy as a pioneer of interdisciplinary scientific research.

Born in Danzig (now Gdańsk), Hevelius combined his work as a brewer with his passion for astronomy. He built one of Europe’s largest private observatories on his house rooftop, crafting instruments by hand. His observations led to the publication of 'Firmamentum Sobiézianum,' a comprehensive star atlas. Hevelius discovered lunar librations and documented comets, earning widespread acclaim among European scientists. In addition to his scientific pursuits, he served as a city council member and mayor of Danzig. He died in 1687, leaving behind a rich legacy in both science and civic service.

Adrien Auzout was a pioneering 17th century French astronomer and instrument maker. He collaborated with Giovanni Cassini on telescopic observations of Jupiter and Saturn, helping to refine models of planetary motion. Auzout developed improved micrometers and ocular devices that enhanced the accuracy of celestial measurements. He authored treatises on optics and instrumentation, influencing telescope design across Europe. His innovations contributed to the advancement of scientific astronomy and laid groundwork for future observational methods.

Gregor Werner was an Austrian composer active in the early 18th century, serving as Kapellmeister at the cathedral of St. Florian near Linz. He composed numerous masses, motets, and offertories that showcased his skilled contrapuntal writing and expressive melodies. Werner’s works bridged the late Baroque and early Classical styles, influencing a younger generation of composers. His sacred choral music was valued for its clarity, balance, and devotion. While overshadowed by later masters, his compositions remain essential examples of Austrian liturgical music from the Baroque period.