Ahmad Tejan Kabbah
Sierra Leonean politician and President
Served as the 3rd President of Sierra Leone from 1996 to 1997 and again from 1998 to 2007. Played a significant role in the peace process that ended the civil war in Sierra Leone. Before his presidency, worked as an economist and lawyer, holding various positions in the government and international organizations, including the United Nations. Kabbah focused on rebuilding the country's institutions and promoting national reconciliation after years of conflict.
Led Sierra Leone through civil war recovery
Served two terms as President
Initiated the Truth and Reconciliation Commission
Other People Born on February 16th
Qyntel Woods
Basketball player, Portland Trail Blazers
Born
February 16th, 1981 44 years ago
A basketball player, born February 16, 1981, played college basketball at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Entered the NBA after being selected as the 21st overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers. Played for the Trail Blazers and had a brief stint with the New Orleans Hornets. Career in the NBA included a focus on shooting guard and small forward positions. Later played in various international leagues, continuing a professional basketball career.
Continue ReadingLupe Fiasco
American rapper and entrepreneur
Born
February 16th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in Chicago, a prominent rapper and entrepreneur emerged in the mid-2000s. Released the debut album 'Food & Liquor' in 2006, which gained critical acclaim and included hit singles like 'Kick, Push'. Followed up with the album 'The Cool' in 2007, further establishing a unique style that incorporated social and political themes. Received several Grammy Awards for his work, including Best Urban/Alternative Performance for 'Daydreamin'. Known for blending intricate lyricism with poignant commentary on issues such as poverty and violence. Collaborated with various artists across different genres and continued to release music throughout the 2010s and beyond.
Continue ReadingOussama Mellouli
Tunisian Olympic swimmer specializing in freestyle
Born
February 16th, 1984 41 years ago
Born in 1984, a Tunisian swimmer competed in multiple Olympic Games, achieving significant success in both the 1500 meters freestyle and open water events. Won gold medals in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics. Also excelled at the World Championships, securing several medals over a career spanning more than a decade. His versatility allowed participation in both pool and open water competitions, demonstrating a wide range of swimming skills.
Continue ReadingArmand Guillaumin
French Impressionist painter
Born
February 16th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1927 98 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1841, a prominent French painter associated with the Impressionist movement. Focused on landscapes and urban scenes, utilized vibrant colors and bold brushwork. Participated in the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874, contributing significantly to the movement's development. His works captured light and atmosphere, influencing many contemporary artists. Later, became known for his powerful depictions of Paris, including the famous scene of the Rue de la Gare.
Continue ReadingHasheem Thabeet
Basketball player and NBA draft pick
Born
February 16th, 1987 38 years ago
Born in Tanzania, a basketball player played center and was selected second overall in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. Played college basketball at the University of Connecticut, where earned All-American honors and helped the team win the NCAA Championship in 2004. Also played for several NBA teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets, in addition to teams in the NBA Development League and overseas.
Continue ReadingAva Max
American singer with pop hits
Born
February 16th, 1994 31 years ago
An American singer and songwriter rose to prominence with the release of the hit single 'Sweet but Psycho' in 2018, which topped charts in several countries. The debut album, 'Heaven & Hell', released in 2020, featured popular tracks like 'Kings & Queens' and received critical acclaim. Distinctive for her powerful vocals and unique style, the artist has been recognized for her contributions to modern pop music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 13th
Susan B. Anthony
Suffragist and women's rights activist
Born
February 15th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1906 119 years ago — 86 years old
Active in the women's suffrage movement, advocated for voting rights and equality for women, contributing significantly to the cause in the United States. Co-founded the National Woman Suffrage Association in 1869, and played a critical role in organizing campaigns for women's right to vote. Known for her efforts in collecting signatures for petitions and making speeches that raised awareness about women's issues. In 1872, voted in the presidential election in an act of civil disobedience, resulting in her arrest for illegally voting. Continued to lead and inspire the movement until her death in 1906.
Continue ReadingArnold Skaaland
Professional wrestler and manager
Born
January 21st, 1925 101 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2007 18 years ago — 82 years old
A professional wrestler and manager, contributed significantly to the wrestling industry. Started wrestling in the 1940s and captured the WWWF World Tag Team Championship with Tony Garea. Transitioned to a managerial role in the 1970s, guiding prominent wrestlers under the WWF banner. His expertise in the ring and promotional skills helped shape the careers of several renowned wrestlers during his tenure.
Continue ReadingClive Burr
Rock drummer for Iron Maiden
Born
March 8th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 56 years old
A rock drummer contributed to the heavy metal band Iron Maiden during the early years. Participated in the recording of three iconic albums: 'Iron Maiden', 'Killers', and 'The Number of the Beast'. Burr's drumming style and technique helped define the band's sound during its formative years. Later, engaged in various projects and collaborations within the rock and heavy metal music scene, continuing to influence the genre throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAl Rosen
Baseball player and manager, 1953 MVP
Born
February 29th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
A baseball player and manager, achieved significant recognition in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the Cleveland Indians as a third baseman from 1947 to 1956. Won the American League Most Valuable Player award in 1953. Transitioned to a managerial role after retiring as a player, leading teams in various capacities. Recognized for contributions to the game and left a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingChristian VII of Denmark
Danish monarch during the Enlightenment
Born
January 29th, 1749 277 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1808 217 years ago — 59 years old
Ruled as King of Denmark and Norway from 1766 until death in 1808. Christian VII's reign coincided with the Age of Enlightenment, which introduced significant intellectual and cultural changes in Europe. His mental health issues affected governance, leading to the regency of his effectively ruling half-brother, Prince Frederick. The king's relationship with Peter Ludvigsk, a physician, influenced the promotion of various reforms, including educational and agricultural advancements. The period saw Denmark's transition towards modern state practices, influenced by Enlightenment thinkers. Christian VII’s abdication was not formal but resulted from his inability to effectively rule due to mental illness. He remained a king symbolically until his death.
Continue ReadingMieszko III the Old
King of Poland during the 12th century
Died
March 13th, 1202 823 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the Duke of Greater Poland from 1138 and later became King of Poland. Mieszko III faced numerous challenges during his reign, including conflicts with rival factions and other rulers. His rule marked a significant time for the unification efforts of Poland. During his tenure, he worked towards consolidating power and expanding his territory. His reign was characterized by constant struggles for control over various Polish principalities, particularly in the context of feudal disputes. Mieszko III also sought to regain influence lost during his predecessors' reigns. After his death, his legacy continued to influence Polish nobility and rule.
Continue Reading