Edward Colston
Merchant and politician from England
Born
November 2nd, 1636
389 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1721
304 years ago — 84 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
England
Links & References
Born in England in 1636, a prominent merchant and politician became a key figure in the development of the transatlantic slave trade. Colston was a leading member of the Royal Africa Company, a group involved in the trade of enslaved Africans. Later, he served as a Member of Parliament for Bristol and was influential in local economic affairs. Aside from his mercantile ventures, he contributed to various philanthropic efforts in Bristol, including funding for schools and the construction of public buildings. His legacy remains complex due to the ties between his wealth and the slave trade, which has led to significant discussion and reevaluation in contemporary society.
Served as a Member of Parliament for Bristol
Involved with the Royal Africa Company
Contributed to education and public works in Bristol
Other People Born on November 2nd
Aga Khan III
Served as the 48th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims from 1885 until death in 1957. Established the Aga Khan Education Service to provide educational opportunities and improve standards in education for Muslim communities. Promoted various social and economic initiatives through the Aga Khan Development Network, focusing on poverty alleviation and community development. Advocated for better understanding among cultures and religions throughout the 20th century.
Continue ReadingCarter Beauford
Born in 1957, this American drummer gained prominence as a founding member of the Dave Matthews Band. The band, formed in 1991, is noted for its unique fusion of rock, jazz, and world music elements. Beauford's dynamic drumming style and innovative approach have played a critical role in the band's sound, contributing to its widespread acclaim. The group has released multiple platinum albums and has received several Grammy nominations. Beauford's percussion work extends beyond live performances, featuring in studio albums that showcase his expertise in rhythms and groove. His contributions have solidified his status within the music community.
Continue ReadingYolande
Served as Duchess of Lorraine in the 15th century. Played a significant role in regional politics and was a patron of the arts. Her reign saw the strengthening of the duchy's power amidst the complex politics of France and the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingKen Rosewall
An accomplished tennis player, he competed from the 1950s to the 1970s. Rosewall captured a total of eight Grand Slam singles titles, including four Australian Opens. He was the first player to win the Australian Open in both amateur and professional categories. Rosewall's competitive spirit and longevity in the sport contributed to his legacy, becoming a fixture in tennis history.
Continue ReadingHarlow Shapley
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through research on the structure and size of the Milky Way galaxy. Served as the director of the Mount Wilson Observatory and later the Director of the Harvard College Observatory. Developed methods to determine the distances of stars, leading to a better understanding of the universe's scale. Advocated for science education and popularization of astronomy.
Continue ReadingDanny Cipriani
Played as a fly-half in rugby union. Started professional career with Wasps, contributing to their success in the 2006–07 Premiership season. Had a significant stint with Bath and also played for Sale Sharks. Represented the England national team, earning numerous caps. Known for exceptional skills and agility on the field. Transitioned to coaching and analysis after retirement, sharing expertise in rugby.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 11th
Selim Sarper
Served as the 13th Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey from 1946 to 1950. Worked on significant foreign policy issues during the early years of the Republic. Held various political and academic roles, influencing educational policies in Turkey. Active in promoting Turkey's interests on the international stage.
Continue ReadingMacKinlay Kantor
An American author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to literature with novels and screenplays. Achieved prominence with the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel 'Andersonville,' a historical fiction account of the infamous Civil War prison. Wrote screenplays including the adaptation of his own works and others, gaining recognition in the film industry. His storytelling often focused on themes of war and human experience, reflecting deep historical insights.
Continue ReadingVito Volterra
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics. Developed the Volterra equations, which are integral equations used in various applications in mathematics and biology. Conducted research on functional analysis and operator theory. Served as a professor at the University of Rome and advanced his studies on nonlinear differential equations. Actively participated in several scientific societies and held prominent editorial roles in scientific journals.
Continue ReadingJean Cocteau
A prominent figure in French literature, worked across multiple forms including poetry, novels, and plays. Gained recognition for the film 'La Belle et la Bête' and the play 'Les Parents Terribles.' His artistic vision encompassed not only literature but also visual arts, making significant contributions to the Surrealist movement. Engaged with influential artists in the early 20th century, shaping responses to modernity and creativity.
Continue ReadingNorm Cash
A professional baseball player and sportscaster, this individual played as a first baseman and outfielder primarily for the Detroit Tigers. Career spanned from 1958 to 1974, during which significant contributions were made to the Tigers' 1968 World Series championship team. Cash was recognized for his hitting ability, especially his power at the plate, culminating in a batting average of .271 over his career. Following retirement from player duties, transitioned into a broadcasting role, providing commentary and insights into the game. Cash's legacy is remembered through his performances both on and off the field.
Continue ReadingHuldrych Zwingli
Born in 1484, Zwingli emerged as a key figure during the Reformation in Switzerland. He served as a pastor in Zurich, where he began advocating for reforms in church practices and beliefs. Zwingli's theological views emphasized the authority of Scripture and rejected certain Catholic practices. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Reformed tradition and was instrumental in developing the theology of the Protestant Reformation. Zwingli also engaged in debates with other reformers, including Martin Luther, regarding issues such as the Lord's Supper. His reforms led to significant changes in Zurich’s ecclesiastical structure and religious life until his death in 1531 during the Second War of Kappel.
Continue Reading