Born on January 19

Kōmyō was emperor of Japan from the Northern Court (1336–1348), enthroned by shogun Ashikaga Takauji during the great imperial split of the Nanboku-chō period. After his abdication, he withdrew from political life and became a Buddhist monk, ending his days in prayer and contemplation.

Scottish engineer and inventor (1736–1819), James Watt greatly improved Newcomen's steam engine in 1769, making it efficient and economical. His invention revolutionized industry and transportation, earning him a place as one of the fathers of the Industrial Revolution.

Robert E. Lee was the principal general of the Confederate army of the Southern states during the American Civil War. A brilliant tactician commanding the Army of Northern Virginia, he surrendered at Appomattox in 1865, sealing the Southern defeat.

An American writer of the 19th century, Edgar Allan Poe is the undisputed master of the gothic tale and horror literature. His psychological short stories and dark poems deeply influenced world literature and laid the foundations of the modern detective genre.

A French painter born in Aix-en-Provence in 1839, Paul Cézanne is considered the father of modern painting. His work on the geometry of forms and construction through color paved the way for Cubism and 20th-century art.

American singer, songwriter, and actress born in 1946, icon of country music. Author of classics like "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You", she is also a philanthropist, founder of a children's literacy program.