Ella Henderson
English singer and songwriter, 'Ghost'
Originated from England and gained prominence as a singer and songwriter. First rose to public attention as a contestant on the ninth series of a popular television music competition, securing a place in the finals. Released the debut single 'Ghost' in 2014, which achieved critical and commercial success, topping charts in several countries. The debut album, 'Chapter One', featured multiple successful singles and demonstrated a strong vocal range.
Released the hit single 'Ghost'
Achieved platinum certification for 'Chapter One'
Other People Born on January 12th
Alfred Rosenberg
Architect and politician; Reich Minister
Born
January 12th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 53 years old
Born in Estonia, a noted architect and politician emerged as an influential figure in Nazi Germany. Served as the Reich Minister for the Occupied Eastern Territories, overseeing administrative and political matters in the eastern regions during World War II. Contributed to the development of policy regarding Eastern Europe and its populations. His writings and theories on Aryan culture and heritage significantly influenced Nazi ideology. Involved in the Party's expansion beyond Germany, promoting aggressive territorial policies.
Continue ReadingCharles Perrault
French author of classic fairy tales
Born
January 12th, 1628 397 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1703 322 years ago — 75 years old
Authored celebrated fairy tales including "Cinderella," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Little Red Riding Hood." Contributed to the development of the fairy tale genre in literature and helped to popularize storytelling for children. In 1697, published "Histoires ou contes du temps passé," which compiled these tales, making them widely accessible and influential in European literature.
Continue ReadingAxel Witsel
Belgian footballer and national team player
Born
January 12th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional footballer played as a midfielder. Started career at Standard Liège, winning the Belgian Pro League in 2008. Transferred to Benfica in 2011, contributing to the team's Primeira Liga title. Joined Russian club Zenit Saint Petersburg in 2012, winning the Russian Premier League, and later played for Tianjin Quanjian in China. Returned to Europe with Borussia Dortmund, competing in the Bundesliga. Regularly represented the national team since 2008, participating in UEFA Euro tournaments and FIFA World Cups.
Continue ReadingJames Farmer
Civil rights activist and politician
Born
January 12th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 79 years old
An American activist and politician, played a significant role in the civil rights movement. Co-founded the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) in 1942, which became an important organization in the struggle for racial equality. Participated in various campaigns for civil rights, including the Freedom Rides in 1961, which aimed to desegregate public transportation in the South. Served as a national director of CORE and advocated for nonviolent protest as a means to achieve social change. Farmer's efforts contributed to the advancement of civil rights legislation in the United States.
Continue ReadingDick Motz
Cricketer, Test player for New Zealand
Born
January 12th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2007 18 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent cricketer, Motz represented New Zealand in the 1960s and 1970s. Primarily a fast bowler, Motz played in 15 Test matches. His cricketing skills made significant contributions to the New Zealand team during this era. In addition to his Test career, he was also active in domestic cricket, where he played for Wellington. Motz's performances in both formats solidified his place in New Zealand's cricket history.
Continue ReadingRay Harroun
Race car driver and engineer, Marmon Wasp
Born
January 12th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1968 57 years ago — 89 years old
An American race car driver and engineer, contributed significantly to the evolution of motorsports. Achieved fame by winning the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911 driving the Marmon Wasp. Pioneered the use of rearview mirrors in automobiles to enhance driver safety and visibility. Harroun's innovations and racing strategies played a crucial role in shaping early 20th-century auto racing.
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