Cristóbal Balenciaga
Fashion designer and founder of Balenciaga
A Spanish fashion designer established a renowned fashion house in Paris. Influenced by art and architecture, created innovative designs that redefined women's fashion in the mid-20th century. Dressed various celebrities and aristocrats and was known for masterful tailoring and unique silhouettes. The fashion house produced iconic pieces such as the 'Balloon Jacket' and 'Baby Doll Dress'. Balenciaga's work is celebrated for its forward-thinking style, contributing to the evolution of modern fashion.
Founded the fashion house Balenciaga in Paris
Created the 'Balloon Jacket' and 'Baby Doll Dress'
Other People Born on January 21st
Sergey Fesikov
Russian competitive swimmer and Olympian
Born
January 21st, 1989 37 years ago
Born in 1989, a competitive swimmer specialized in freestyle and butterfly events. Achieved success in international competitions, representing Russia. Competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, where participated in the 100 meter freestyle and 4x100 meter freestyle relay. Contributed to several national championships and other swimming events throughout the career.
Continue ReadingAnna Morandi Manzolini
Italian anatomist and wax modeler
Born
January 21st, 1714 312 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1774 251 years ago — 60 years old
An anatomist and wax modeler, significant contributions included the creation of detailed anatomical models using wax. Worked at a time when women faced significant barriers in the scientific community. Established a school for anatomical studies and collaborated with prominent anatomists. Published findings in anatomy, detailing complex human structures through meticulously crafted models.
Continue ReadingBrandon Crawford
Baseball player, 2014 World Series Champion
Born
January 21st, 1987 39 years ago
Professional baseball player played for the San Francisco Giants in Major League Baseball (MLB). Debuted in 2011 and established himself as a key player for the team. Notable for defensive proficiency and offensive contributions. Achieved considerable success, including being part of the Giants team that won the World Series in 2014. Received Gold Glove Awards for exceptional fielding skills.
Continue ReadingSven Erik Bystrøm
Norwegian cyclist, World Champion
Born
January 21st, 1992 34 years ago
Born in 1992, a professional cyclist specialized in road racing. Competed for several teams including Team Katusha and UAE Team Emirates. Achieved significant success in various international competitions, securing a victory at the UCI Road World Championships in 2016. Participated in numerous prestigious races including the Tour de France and Vuelta a España.
Continue ReadingVerónica Cepede Royg
Paraguayan tennis player, French Open 2016
Born
January 21st, 1992 34 years ago
Competed primarily on the WTA Tour and ITF Women’s Circuit, achieving a career-high singles ranking of No. 74 in 2017. Participated in the Grand Slam tournaments, reaching the third round of the French Open in 2016. Represented Paraguay in international competitions, including the Fed Cup. Gained recognition for strong performances on clay courts.
Continue ReadingPaula Hitler
Younger sister of Adolf Hitler
Born
January 21st, 1896 130 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1960 65 years ago — 64 years old
Born in Austria, Paula Hitler was the younger sister of Adolf Hitler. She lived in his shadow throughout her life, maintaining a low public profile despite her family connections. After the rise of Nazi Germany, she moved to Linz. Following World War II, Paula changed her name to escape her brother's legacy. She spent her later years in obscurity and reportedly held strong nationalist sentiments. Paula passed away in 1960.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 23rd
Eric Medlen
Race Car Driver, NHRA Funny Car Champion
Born
August 13th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2007 18 years ago — 33 years old
A race car driver competed primarily in the NHRA Funny Car division. Medlen drove for John Force Racing during his career. Achieved significant success on the track with multiple wins. Tragically passed away in 2007 following an accident during testing. His contributions to the sport left a lasting legacy within the NHRA community.
Continue ReadingLee Kuan Yew
1st Prime Minister of Singapore
Born
September 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
Served as Singapore's first Prime Minister from 1959 to 1990, leading the nation through its transition from a British colonial outpost to an independent state. Played a key role in the establishment of the People’s Action Party and implemented policies that transformed Singapore’s economy, promoting industrialization and attracting foreign investment. His government emphasized multiracialism and economic pragmatism, contributing to Singapore's reputation as a global financial hub. After stepping down as Prime Minister, remained an influential figure in Singaporean politics as Senior Minister and later Minister Mentor until 2011. Author of multiple books outlining his vision for governance and social harmony.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Taylor
Actress in 'Cleopatra' and humanitarian
Born
February 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2011 14 years ago — 79 years old
An English-American actress and humanitarian, made a significant mark in the film industry from the 1940s through the 2000s. Featured in classic films such as 'National Velvet', 'Cleopatra', and 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?'. Accumulated two Academy Awards for Best Actress. Later in life, dedicated efforts toward humanitarian work, particularly raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS research.
Continue ReadingNaji Talib
Iraqi Politician, 52nd Prime Minister
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 52nd Prime Minister of Iraq, holding office during a critical period following the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime. Focused on rebuilding governmental institutions and addressing the challenges of political transition in post-war Iraq. Led efforts to stabilize the economy and restore public services in a nation facing significant social and political upheaval.
Continue ReadingDave Brockie
Singer-songwriter and bass player
Born
August 30th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 50 years old
A Canadian-American musician gained prominence as the lead vocalist and bass player for the heavy metal band GWAR. Founded in 1984, the band combined theatrical stage performances with heavy metal music, creating a unique brand of shock rock. GWAR became known for their elaborate costumes and satirical lyrics, often addressing political and social themes. The band's albums, such as 'Scumdogs of the Universe' and 'America Must Be Destroyed', solidified their status in the metal genre. Brockie's stage persona, Oderus Urungus, became iconic in the music scene.
Continue ReadingAbdullahi Yusuf Ahmed
Somali President and politician
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
Served as President of Somalia from 2004 to 2008, leading the Transitional Federal Government during a period of political instability. Held the position of the military leader of the Somali National Alliance and played a significant role in the civil war. Worked towards establishing a federal government and promoting peace in the region.
Continue Reading