Allan Boesak

South African cleric and anti-apartheid leader

Allan Boesak - South African cleric and anti-apartheid leader
Born

February 23rd, 1945
80 years ago

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

South Africa

Links & References

A prominent South African cleric and politician, focused on social justice and anti-apartheid activism. Played a key role in the Black Consciousness Movement and was a leader in the United Democratic Front. Served as a theologian and headed the World Alliance of Reformed Churches. Worked towards racial equality and was involved in prominent discussions and negotiations during the transition to democracy in South Africa.

Authored 'Black and Reformed'

Served as President of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches

Played a major role in the anti-apartheid movement

Other People Born on February 23rd

Robert Lopez

Songwriter and playwright of musicals
Born
February 23rd, 1975 50 years ago

A prolific songwriter and playwright, contributed to Broadway musicals, co-created the hit musical 'Avenue Q' and the animated film 'Frozen.' 'Avenue Q' received the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2004. 'Frozen,' featuring the song 'Let It Go,' won an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2014. Collaborated with other artists and continued to create acclaimed works for theater and film.

Continue Reading

Henry XI of Legnica

Duke of Legnica
Born
February 23rd, 1539 486 years ago
Died
1588 437 years ago — 49 years old

Ascended to the ducal throne of Legnica three times during the 16th century. Governed over Legnica and played a role in the political landscape of Silesia. His reign was marked by the challenges of the Habsburg influence and the Protestant Reformation. Engaged in alliances and conflicts that shaped the region's history. The legacy includes efforts in local governance and maintaining the duchy’s autonomy amidst larger powers.

Continue Reading

Louis IX

Duke of Bavaria and Holy Roman Emperor
Born
February 23rd, 1417 608 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1479 546 years ago — 61 years old

An influential ruler during the late medieval period, held the title of Duke of Bavaria and later became Holy Roman Emperor. Known for consolidating power within Bavaria and expanding its territories. Promoted a strong central authority and implemented judicial reforms which enhanced governance. His reign saw significant military campaigns, including battles against rival factions in the region, contributing to the territorial integrity of Bavaria.

Continue Reading

Hendrik Willem Mesdag

Dutch painter of seascapes
Born
February 23rd, 1831 194 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1915 109 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1831, this Dutch painter specialized in seascapes and marine subjects, capturing the beauty of the North Sea. He became prominent in the art scene and was a significant figure in the Hague School. His most acclaimed work, 'The Panorama of the Scheveningen', is a monumental circular painting that provides an immersive experience of the beach at Scheveningen. In addition to his painting career, he contributed to the establishment of the Mesdag Collection, which showcases 19th-century Dutch art. His works reflect a strong sense of atmosphere and color, establishing him as one of the notable landscape painters of his time.

Continue Reading

Tom Wesselmann

American painter of pop art
Born
February 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2004 20 years ago — 73 years old

An influential American painter and sculptor, this artist was a prominent figure in the pop art movement, known for incorporating elements of commercial culture in artwork. The series Great American Nude features bold colors and simplified forms, directly addressing themes of consumerism and sexuality. Throughout a career spanning several decades, the artist explored the intersection of fine art and everyday life, often utilizing assemblage techniques. The artwork reflected modern American culture, tackling subjects from advertising to personal desire. This artist's work has been important in establishing a narrative around consumer culture in the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Balthazar Gerbier

Dutch painter specialized in landscapes
Born
February 23rd, 1592 433 years ago
Died
1663 362 years ago — 71 years old

Born in the Dutch Republic, contributed significantly to the art world as a painter, particularly known for landscape paintings. Active during the 17th century, developed a distinctive style characterized by meticulous detail and rich color palettes. Works often featured idealized natural settings and were influenced by the prevailing artistic trends of the time.

Continue Reading