Baruch Spinoza

Dutch philosopher of ethics and understanding

Baruch Spinoza - Dutch philosopher of ethics and understanding
Born

November 24th, 1632
392 years ago

Died

February 21st, 1677
348 years ago — 44 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Netherlands

Links & References

A prominent 17th-century philosopher and scholar, contributed significantly to the fields of metaphysics, ethics, and political philosophy. Spinoza advocated for rationalism and laid the groundwork for the modern understanding of liberty and democracy. His seminal works include 'Ethics', in which he formulated his views on the nature of reality, God, and human freedom, and 'Theological-Political Treatise', which examined the relationship between religion and state. His ideas about the separation of church and state and the nature of truth challenged contemporary beliefs and political structures.

Authored 'Ethics' outlining rationalist philosophy

Wrote 'Theological-Political Treatise' on religion and politics

Other People Born on November 24th

Donald "Duck" Dunn

American bass player for Booker T. & the MG's
Born
November 24th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2012 12 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1941, this musician became a prominent figure in the music industry as a bass player, songwriter, and producer. He was a key member of the band Booker T. & the MG's, contributing to the soulful sound of Stax Records. The group was integral to the development of the Southern soul music genre and played behind several major artists. Apart from his work with the band, he recorded with notable musicians and bands, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world. Dunn's musical career spanned several decades, influencing generations of bass players and songwriters.

Continue Reading

Charles Starkweather

American spree killer
Born
November 24th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1959 65 years ago — 20 years old

Commenced a series of murders in 1958, leading to nationwide attention. Engaged in a killing spree across Nebraska and Wyoming, resulting in the deaths of 11 people. Captured by law enforcement, Starkweather was sentenced to death and executed in the electric chair in 1959. The case raised discussions regarding youth violence and societal influences, becoming a significant part of American criminal history.

Continue Reading

Nick Knight

British photographer and fashion icon
Born
November 24th, 1958 66 years ago

A British photographer, recognized for contributions to fashion photography and contemporary art. Established a photographic studio and collaborated with designers and brands. Pioneered the use of digital technology in photography, pushing boundaries in the medium. Founded SHOWstudio, a platform for fashion film and photography that showcases innovative projects. Knight has been influential in shaping modern photographic techniques and aesthetics in the fashion industry.

Continue Reading

David Adeang

Nauruan lawyer and politician
Born
November 24th, 1969 55 years ago

Involvement in Nauru's political landscape included serving as a member of the parliament and holding various ministerial positions. Worked as Attorney General and Minister for Finance, responsible for key legislative initiatives. Contribution to national governance focused on legal and financial reforms, aiming to improve Nauru's international relations.

Continue Reading

Arundhati Roy

Author of The God of Small Things
Born
November 24th, 1961 63 years ago

Writer and activist achieved prominence with the debut novel, The God of Small Things, which won the Booker Prize in 1997. The narrative explores the social and cultural dynamics of Kerala, India. Apart from fiction, engaged in social and political activism, focusing on issues like environmentalism, human rights, and anti-globalization. Her essays often critique government policies and advocate for marginalized communities. Continues to be a voice in contemporary political discourse through literature and activism.

Continue Reading

Herbert Roper Barrett

English tennis player and champion
Born
November 24th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 70 years old

Played tennis primarily during the late 19th century. Achieved significant success in both singles and doubles tournaments. Competed at Wimbledon, where notable performances occurred in the 1900s. The individual also represented England in international matches, contributing to the sport's development during that era.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 21st

John Charles

Welsh footballer and manager, Juventus star
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in football, excelled as both a player and manager. Played primarily as a forward and became a key player for Juventus during the 1950s, winning three Serie A titles. Made significant contributions to the Welsh national team, earning 38 caps and scoring 23 goals. Transitioned into management after retirement, taking charge of teams such as Cardiff City and others in the Welsh football system.

Continue Reading

Incas

Last known Carolina parakeet specimen
Died
February 21st, 1918 107 years ago — None years old

The Carolina parakeet, a small green parrot, inhabited the southeastern United States. By the early 20th century, the population had significantly dwindled due to habitat destruction and hunting. The last known individual of this species was collected in 1918 in Florida, marking the extinction of the Carolina parakeet. This event highlighted the vulnerability of bird species to environmental changes and human activities.

Continue Reading

Ahmad ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi

Somalian general during the 16th century
Born
1507 518 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1543 482 years ago — 36 years old

Led the Adal Sultanate in military campaigns against the Ethiopian Empire during the 16th century. Engaged in pivotal battles such as the Battle of Lake Tana and the Battle of Marda, contributing to significant territorial changes. Utilized innovative tactics and alliances to expand influence in the region. His campaigns marked a critical point in the history of the Horn of Africa.

Continue Reading

Johannes Steinhoff

German general and fighter pilot
Born
September 15th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1994 31 years ago — 80 years old

A distinguished German general and pilot, contributed significantly during World War II as a Luftwaffe fighter pilot. Achieved high honors and recognition for aerial combat success, becoming one of the top aces of the conflict. After the war, played a key role in the post-war defense landscape of Germany, serving as a general in the Luftwaffe of the Bundeswehr. Involved in the re-establishment of the German Air Force, focusing on modernizing its structure and capabilities. Advocated for integrated NATO operations and flew multiple types of aircraft throughout his career, earning accolades for leadership and expertise.

Continue Reading

Bronislava Nijinska

Choreographer of The Firebird ballet
Born
January 8th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1972 53 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent dancer and choreographer, contributions significantly influenced ballet in the 20th century. Worked with the Ballets Russes, creating innovative choreography that showcased her unique vision. The Firebird, created in collaboration with Stravinsky, remains one of the most celebrated works. Emigrated to the United States and continued to develop her artistic style, teaching and choreographing for various companies, influencing future generations of dancers and choreographers. Notably was one of the few female choreographers of her time, establishing a legacy that emphasized originality and creativity in ballet.

Continue Reading

Sadeq Tabatabaei

Iranian journalist and politician
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 72 years old

Tabatabaei served as a prominent journalist and politician in Iran. He played a role in the Iranian Revolution of 1979 and was involved in the formation of the Islamic Republic. He held various political offices during the early years of the revolution and was an advocate for reform within the political system. His writings and political activity reflected the changes occurring in the country during this historical period. Tabatabaei also contributed to discussions on media freedom and civil rights in Iran throughout his career.

Continue Reading