Ali-Shir Nava'i
Turkic poet and linguist
A prominent Turkic poet, linguist, and mystic, contributed significantly to the development of Turkic literature and language during the Timurid era. Authored numerous literary works, which enriched the cultural landscape of the time. Served as a minister in the Timurid court and was a key figure in promoting the use of the Chagatai language, advocating for its literary value. Engaged in various forms of art, including poetry and prose, while also being recognized for his contributions to calligraphy and socio-political thought.
Wrote the epic poem 'Khamsa'
Contributed to the development of the Chagatai language
Other People Born on February 9th
Farkas Bolyai
Hungarian mathematician and academic
Born
February 9th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1856 169 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of non-Euclidean geometry. Established mathematical theories alongside his son, János Bolyai. Served as a professor at the University of Marosvásárhely. Published works that laid foundational insights for later mathematical advancements, influencing both geometry and philosophy of mathematics.
Continue ReadingPhil Ford
Basketball player and coach
Born
February 9th, 1956 69 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of North Carolina, winning the NCAA Championship in 1982. Had a successful career in the NBA, playing for the Kansas City Kings and the New Jersey Nets. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and served in various assistant coaching roles, contributing to player development and team strategy.
Continue ReadingMagdalena Neuner
Biathlete with multiple World Championship titles
Born
February 9th, 1987 38 years ago
A German biathlete achieved significant success in the sport, winning numerous titles during a competitive career. Won two gold medals at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, excelling in both the sprint and pursuit events. Dominated the IBU World Championships, securing 12 gold medals, establishing a reputation as a top competitor in biathlon. Retired from competitive sports in 2012, leaving a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingNiclas Füllkrug
Professional German footballer
Born
February 9th, 1993 32 years ago
Professionally played football primarily as a striker. Began career at Werder Bremen and made significant contributions to the team's performance. Transferred to Hannover 96 and later joined Borussia Dortmund. Achieved recognition for scoring goals in the Bundesliga and represented the national team in international competitions.
Continue ReadingErich von Drygalski
German geographer and geophysicist
Born
February 9th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1949 77 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to geography and geophysics. Led the First German Antarctic Expedition in 1901-1903, conducting extensive research and mapping in the region. Served as a professor at the University of Berlin and was involved in various scientific organizations.
Continue ReadingK. J. McDaniels
Basketball player and NBA player
Born
February 9th, 1993 32 years ago
Played college basketball at Clemson University before entering the NBA. Selected in the second round of the 2014 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. Competing as a shooting guard and small forward, McDaniels was known for his defensive abilities and athleticism. Had a stint with the Houston Rockets and played in the NBA G League, continuing to showcase skills in professional basketball.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 3rd
Jack Ruby
Businessman involved in JFK assassination
Born
1911 115 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1967 59 years ago — 56 years old
A businessman in Dallas, this individual gained notoriety for the murder of Lee Harvey Oswald, the alleged assassin of President John F. Kennedy. On November 24, 1963, he shot Oswald in the basement of the Dallas Police Department while Oswald was being transferred to another jail. This act was apparent revenge for the assassination of the president, which led to widespread media coverage and public speculation regarding motivations and state of mind. Following the murder, an intense legal battle ensued, resulting in a conviction of murder and a death sentence, which was later overturned on appeal. The individual died in prison from cancer in 1967.
Continue ReadingJaroslav Hašek
Czech author of The Good Soldier Švejk
Born
April 30th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1923 103 years ago — 39 years old
A Czech soldier and author, contributed significantly to literature through satirical works. Most recognized for the novel 'The Good Soldier Švejk', which highlights the absurdities of war. Often classified as an early example of anti-war literature, the narrative combines humor and critique of the military. Active in the early 20th century, also participated in the World War I effort as a soldier.
Continue ReadingWilliam Joyce
Pro-Axis propaganda broadcaster
Born
April 24th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1946 80 years ago — 39 years old
A broadcaster with a focus on pro-Axis propaganda during World War II, migrated to Germany and began his career with the Nazi regime. Gained attention through radio broadcasts directed at British audiences, creating a distinct identity as 'Lord Haw-Haw'. Captured after the war, faced a trial for treason in the UK.
Continue ReadingEric Jerome Dickey
American author of best-selling novels
Born
1961 65 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2021 5 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent American author, recognized for contributions to contemporary literature, particularly in the genres of fiction and romance. Authored numerous best-selling novels, with a style that often explored themes of love, relationships, and personal growth. Some of the notable works include 'Sister, Sister', 'Milk in My Coffee', and 'The Other Woman'. Gained recognition for skillful storytelling and engaging characters, appealing to a broad audience. Worked extensively to highlight African American experiences and relationships through his narratives. Passed away in January 2021.
Continue ReadingEdgar Cayce
Psychic and author of psychic readings
Born
March 18th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1945 81 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent figure in the early 20th century, this individual gained recognition for psychic abilities and contributions to holistic health. Conducted thousands of psychic readings that addressed physical health, spiritual development, and life guidance. Founded the Association for Research and Enlightenment, which promoted his teachings and philosophies. His readings often included insights into reincarnation and dreams, attracting a following that sought understanding of the metaphysical.
Continue ReadingJames Elroy Flecker
English poet and playwright
Born
November 5th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1915 111 years ago — 30 years old
An English poet and playwright, this individual contributed significantly to early 20th-century literature. Flecker's poetry often reflected themes of travel, longing, and the beauty of the East. His most recognized works include the drama 'Hassan' and the poem 'The Golden Journey to Samarkand'. Flecker's literary career, though brief, left a lasting legacy through its vivid imagery and reflective depth. Personal experiences in the Middle East influenced much of his writing, incorporating exotic locales and historical references.
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