Eric Liddell
Rugby player and Olympic runner
A Scottish athlete excelled in both rugby and athletics. Achieved significant success with the Scotland national rugby team, earning multiple caps. Gained international fame as a runner, competing in the 1924 Paris Olympics. Won the gold medal in the 400 meters and the bronze in the 200 meters. Demonstrated strong principles by refusing to run in the 100-meter race due to a religious observance, which was widely recognized and respected.
Competed in the 1924 Paris Olympics
Won the gold medal in the 400 meters
Earned multiple caps with the Scotland rugby team
Other People Born on January 16th
Nicklas Bendtner
Danish footballer and striker for Arsenal
Born
January 16th, 1988 38 years ago
A professional footballer from Denmark, began career at Ajax before moving to Arsenal in 2006. Played as a striker, gaining recognition for performances in the Premier League and international matches. Served as a key player for the Danish national team, participating in UEFA Euro tournaments and earning over 30 caps. Later, played for various clubs including Juventus and VfL Wolfsburg, contributing to team successes across different leagues.
Continue ReadingRobert R. Hitt
American lawyer and politician, Assistant Secretary of State
Born
January 16th, 1834 192 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1906 119 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 13th United States Assistant Secretary of State from 1893 to 1895 under President Grover Cleveland. Played a key role in diplomatic affairs during a time of significant political change in the United States. Engaged in various legal practices before transitioning to politics, influencing policy and governance at national levels. Was involved in the Democratic Party and contributed to the shaping of foreign relations and policy-making.
Continue ReadingFKA Twigs
Singer-songwriter and actress
Born
January 16th, 1988 38 years ago
An English singer-songwriter and actress, gained attention with the EP 'EP2' released in 2013. The debut studio album, 'LP1', released in 2014, received critical acclaim, showcasing a blend of electronic, art pop, and R&B influences. Also recognized for the innovative music video for 'Cellophane', which featured stunning choreography and visuals. In addition to music, engaged in acting, appearing in the film 'Honey Boy'.
Continue ReadingClement Greenberg
Art critic and Modernist theorist
Born
January 16th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1994 31 years ago — 85 years old
Contributions to the field of art criticism established a foundation for understanding Modernist art. Promoted Abstract Expressionism, influencing key artists within the movement. Worked for various publications, including The Nation, where critiques on contemporary art were widely read. Authored influential essays that shaped art criticism, notably 'Avant-Garde and Kitsch,' which argued for the authenticity of Modernist art against popular culture. Articulated the importance of medium specificity in painting, which became a central tenet in art discussions.
Continue ReadingFulgencio Batista
Cuban politician and military leader
Born
January 16th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1973 52 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a colonel in the Cuban army and held the position of President of Cuba from 1940 to 1944 and again from 1952 until 1959. Initially came to power through a military coup, Batista implemented several social and economic reforms during his first term. His second term was marked by repression and corruption, leading to widespread opposition. Eventually, Fidel Castro's revolutionary movement resulted in Batista fleeing Cuba in January 1959.
Continue ReadingZhou Zuoren
Chinese author and translator of essays
Born
January 16th, 1885 141 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1967 58 years ago — 82 years old
An influential figure in modern Chinese literature, contributed to the introduction of Western literary concepts. Served as a cultural mediator between China and the West during the early 20th century. Published a variety of essays and translations, primarily focusing on Western philosophical and literary works. Engaged with the May Fourth Movement, emphasizing the importance of vernacular literature. His literary work often explored themes of individualism and modernity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
Stanley Donen
Film director of 'Singin' in the Rain'
Born
April 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2019 6 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent film director, contributed significantly to the musical genre in cinema. Directed classics such as 'Singin' in the Rain' and 'On the Town'. Worked in collaboration with notable figures in the industry, merging dance and storytelling in innovative ways. The use of vibrant choreography and memorable scores established a unique style that has been influential across generations.
Continue ReadingDwayne McDuffie
Comic book author and animated series writer
Born
February 20th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2011 14 years ago — 49 years old
An influential author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to comic books and animated television. Co-founded Milestone Media, which focused on creating diverse superhero narratives. Worked on major animated series, including 'Justice League' and 'Static Shock', shaping their storylines and character development. Advocated for increased representation within the comic book industry.
Continue ReadingNutan
Indian actress
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1991 34 years ago — 55 years old
An acclaimed actress in the Hindi film industry, notable for performances spanning several decades. Debuted in the film 'Hum Log' in 1951 and gained recognition for her roles in significant films such as 'Seema', 'Sujata', and 'Bandini'. Established a reputation for portraying strong, complex characters. Received numerous awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Actress on multiple occasions, and was honored with the title of 'Best Actress of the Century' by the Indian government.
Continue ReadingHasse Jeppson
Swedish footballer and national team player
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
A professional footballer, represented Sweden at the international level. Played as a forward and had a significant career with several clubs, including Malmö FF. Made notable contributions to the club's successes during the 1940s and 1950s. Participated in the 1950 FIFA World Cup held in Brazil while representing the national team. Also had impactful performances in domestic leagues throughout the career.
Continue ReadingZdzisław Beksiński
Polish painter and surrealist artist
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1929, an artist focused on surrealist themes through painting, photography, and sculpture. Created haunting and dystopian imagery, with works often described as nightmarish. Lived in Warsaw, evolving a distinctive style characterized by intricate details and a dark palette. Emphasized themes of death and decay, influencing contemporary art. Despite a tragic end to life in 2005, his works are celebrated in galleries worldwide, solidifying his position in the art community.
Continue ReadingAhmad ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi
Somalian general during the 16th century
Born
1507 519 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