Bernard Hopkins
Boxer and coach, Unified World Champion
Born in 1965, a professional boxer achieved major recognition in the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions. A lengthy and successful career included defending titles multiple times and becoming the oldest world champion in boxing history at 49 years old. Transitioned to coaching following retirement, contributing to the sport through mentorship and training of younger athletes.
Defended the middleweight title 20 times
Became the oldest world champion in boxing history
Unified the middleweight titles in 2001
Other People Born on January 15th
Michel Debré
French politician and Prime Minister
Born
January 15th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1996 29 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as Prime Minister of France from 1959 to 1962. Played a significant role in drafting the Constitution of the Fifth Republic, which established a strong executive branch. Actively participated in the decolonization process, particularly in Algeria, and emphasized modernization in national policies.
Continue ReadingGrace VanderWaal
Singer-songwriter and America's Got Talent winner
Born
January 15th, 2004 21 years ago
Gained recognition after winning the 11th season of America's Got Talent at age 12. Released debut EP 'Perfectly Imperfect' in 2016, featuring the hit single 'I Don't Know My Name.' Subsequent albums 'Just the Beginning' and 'Letters Vol. 1' showcased personal songwriting and a distinct voice. Also known for a role in the film 'Stargirl' based on the novel by Jerry Spinelli, which further solidified a career in music and acting.
Continue ReadingHugo Viana
Portuguese footballer with club success
Born
January 15th, 1983 42 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Started career at Sporting CP, showcasing talent in youth teams before debuting with the first team. Transferred to Newcastle United in 2002, contributing to the team's midfield. Afterward, played for various clubs including Valencia CF and SC Braga. Returned to Portugal, where success continued at Braga, winning the Taça da Liga. Represented Portugal at multiple youth levels and participated in the senior national team.
Continue ReadingNâzım Hikmet
Turkish poet and playwright
Born
January 15th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1963 62 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in Turkish literature, this author created revolutionary poetry and plays that reflected social and political themes. Born into a family of intellectuals, began writing poetry at a young age. His works often faced censorship due to political views, leading to imprisonment and exile. Despite challenges, produced a substantial body of work that includes the acclaimed poetry collection 'Human Landscapes from My Country'. His style combined free verse with rich imagery and was influential in modern Turkish literature.
Continue ReadingTim Stützle
Ice hockey player, Ottawa Senators forward
Born
January 15th, 2002 23 years ago
Born in 2002, an ice hockey player gained recognition in professional leagues. Played for the Ottawa Senators in the NHL, showcasing skill as a forward. Stützle was selected third overall in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. Demonstrated exceptional talent and performance in international competitions, representing Germany in the World Junior Championships. Quickly became a key player for the Senators, earning accolades for offensive contributions and playmaking abilities.
Continue ReadingErnest J. Gaines
American author of 'A Lesson Before Dying'
Born
January 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 86 years old
An American author and academic, recognized for contributions to literature and education. The body of work often explores African American culture and the dynamics of life in the rural South. A prominent narrative includes 'A Lesson Before Dying', which deals with themes of dignity and redemption against the backdrop of racial injustice. Gaines also served as a professor, influencing generations of writers and students through a commitment to storytelling and academic excellence. His narratives reflect personal experiences and historical contexts that resonate deeply within the literary community.
Continue Reading