Ernst Thälmann

German politician and communist leader

Ernst Thälmann - German politician and communist leader
Born

April 16th, 1886
138 years ago

Died

August 18th, 1944
80 years ago — 58 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Germany

Links & References

Born in 1886, a German politician and prominent member of the Communist Party of Germany. Participated in anti-fascist activities and was a key opponent of the Nazi regime. Elected as the party's national chairman in 1925, worked to strengthen the party's presence in German politics. Arrested by the Nazis in 1933 and remained imprisoned until execution in 1944. Posthumously recognized as a martyr of the communist movement.

Chairman of the Communist Party of Germany

Opposition to Nazi regime

Executed by the Nazis

Other People Born on April 16th

Petrus Apianus

Mathematician and astronomer, famous for astronomy
Born
April 16th, 1495 529 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1557 467 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent German mathematician and astronomer, contributions included advances in cartography and astronomical instruments. Authored influential works that bridged practical astronomy and mathematical frameworks. The internationally recognized work 'Astronomicum Caesareum' enhanced the understanding of planetary movements. His innovations in navigational tools supported maritime exploration, influencing geography and science during the Renaissance.

Continue Reading

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark

Danish monarch, artist, and cultural figure
Born
April 16th, 1940 84 years ago

Born on April 16, 1940, the individual ascended the throne of Denmark in 1972, becoming the first female monarch of Denmark since Margrethe I in the 14th century. Extensive involvement in arts and culture includes work as an illustrator and set designer for theatrical productions, as well as contributions to Danish cinema. Active in various cultural and social causes, contributions to the Danish Red Cross and the World Wildlife Fund occurred regularly. The individual has also represented Denmark in numerous official capacities and diplomatic relations.

Continue Reading

Chance the Rapper

American rapper and music activist
Born
April 16th, 1993 31 years ago

A prominent figure in hip-hop, gained recognition through mixtapes, particularly 'Acid Rap' released in 2013. Released the critically acclaimed coloring book in 2016, which earned three Grammy Awards, making history as the first streaming-only album to win a Grammy. In addition to music, engaged in various philanthropic efforts, including funding mental health services and supporting public schools in Chicago. Established a record label, Social Experiment, focusing on independent music distribution.

Continue Reading

Robert Henry Best

Journalist and WWII correspondent
Born
April 16th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1952 72 years ago — 56 years old

A significant journalist, contributed to news coverage during World War II, particularly focusing on the European theater. Worked for various publications, including a notable tenure with the Chicago Times. Reported on key events and battles, providing detailed accounts that informed the public about the war's progress and implications. Best's career included coverage of significant political and military developments, gaining recognition for in-depth analysis and firsthand reporting from conflict zones.

Continue Reading

Hsuan Hua

Chinese-American monk and author
Born
April 16th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1995 29 years ago — 77 years old

A Chinese-American monk and author, this individual dedicated life to spreading Buddhist teachings and promoting meditation. In 1962, founded the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas in California, establishing an important center for Buddhist learning and practice in the West. Authored multiple texts on Buddhism, contributing to the understanding of the religion among English-speaking audiences. Actively translated various Buddhist scriptures, making significant works accessible.

Continue Reading

Jarle Vespestad

Norwegian drummer with significant contributions
Born
April 16th, 1966 58 years ago

Established a reputation as a prominent drummer in the Norwegian jazz scene. Collaborated with various notable jazz musicians and participated in several influential projects. Contributed to the development of jazz in the Scandinavian region through performances and recordings. Engaged in educational initiatives to foster the next generation of musicians.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 18th

Elmer Bernstein

Composer of film scores and conductor
Born
April 4th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2004 20 years ago — 82 years old

Gained recognition for film scoring starting in the 1950s. Composed music for a variety of genres, producing scores for over 200 films. Collaborated with directors like Alfred Hitchcock and John Frankenheimer. Achieved critical acclaim for work in films such as "The Magnificent Seven," "To Kill a Mockingbird," and "Ghostbusters." Received Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame throughout his career. Continued to influence film music until retirement.

Continue Reading

Erwin Schulhoff

Czech composer and pianist with notable works
Born
June 8th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1942 82 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1894 in Prague, a prominent composer and pianist contributed significantly to early 20th-century music. Schulhoff studied under influential teachers including Claude Debussy and later became aligned with avant-garde movements. His works often incorporated elements of jazz and folk music, reflecting the cultural currents of his time. Notable compositions include symphonies, concertos, and chamber music, as well as the piano sonatina and the opera 'Flammen'. His career faced interruption due to the rise of the Nazi regime, which led to his persecution. Schulhoff died in a concentration camp in 1949, leaving behind a legacy of innovative music that merged various styles.

Continue Reading

Hal Connolly

Hammer thrower and Olympic coach
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2010 14 years ago — 79 years old

Achieved success in the hammer throw discipline, featuring prominently in both national and international competitions. Won a gold medal at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, showcasing exceptional skill and technique in the event. Later transitioned to a coaching role, imparting expertise to emerging athletes and contributing to the development of the sport. Acted as a mentor and coach to several notable throwers, emphasizing the importance of technique and mental preparation.

Continue Reading

Chri$ Ca$h

Wrestler and promoter for ECW
Born
1982 43 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2005 19 years ago — 23 years old

A professional wrestler and promoter, this individual gained recognition in the wrestling industry during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Prominence in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) marked the career, contributing to the promotion's reputation. Renowned for an innovative approach to wrestling, incorporating hardcore elements and unique storylines, this individual helped shape the genre during its peak. The wrestling persona resonated with fans, further elevating popularity through memorable matches and rivalries. The legacy within the wrestling community persists, influencing the style and presentation of future wrestling promotions.

Continue Reading

Ali-Agha Shikhlinski

Russian-Azerbaijani general
Born
April 23rd, 1865 159 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1943 81 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1865, a prominent general in the Russian and Azerbaijani military history. Played a significant role during World War I and the subsequent Russian Civil War. Commanded troops with strategic acumen, leading various military operations that contributed to regional stability. Engaged in efforts to promote Azerbaijani independence during the tumultuous political climate of the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Fiacre

Irish Hermit and founder of monasteries
Died
August 18th, 670 1354 years ago — None years old

A prominent figure in early medieval Ireland, this hermit established a monastic community in a forest in France. Renowned for his piety and spiritual presence, interactions with the local populace led to his reputation as a healer. His life of asceticism and dedication to prayer attracted numerous followers and contributed to the spread of monasticism in the region. The extensive influence of his monastic principles continued long after his death.

Continue Reading