Eveline Widmer-Schlumpf
Swiss politician and Federal Councillor
Born in 1956, a prominent Swiss politician and lawyer served as a member of the Swiss Federal Council from 2007 to 2015. Represented the Conservative Democratic Party and held the position of Federal Councillor, leading the Federal Department of Finance. Oversaw significant financial reforms and contributed to policy development during challenging economic times. Resigned from party leadership in 2015, concluding a notable political career in Swiss governance.
Served as a member of the Swiss Federal Council
Led the Federal Department of Finance
Implemented financial reforms during tenure
Other People Born on March 16th
Vladimir Komarov
Russian pilot and cosmonaut, Soyuz 1
Born
March 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 40 years old
A pilot and engineer, made significant contributions to space exploration as a cosmonaut. Flew on the Vostok 1 mission in April 1967. Commanded the Soyuz 1 mission in April 1967, which ended in tragedy when the spacecraft crashed upon re-entry. Despite the mission's outcome, advancements were made in crewed spaceflight and safety protocols as a result of this flight. Participated in the development of Soviet space technology and testing programs.
Continue ReadingRosa Bonheur
Painter of 'The Horse Fair'
Born
March 16th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1899 126 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1822, this artist gained recognition for detailed animal paintings, particularly horses. Growing up in Paris, significant influence from the art community shaped her work. A pioneer for women in the arts, she often dressed in traditionally male attire to facilitate her access to rural areas for studying animals. 'The Horse Fair', completed in 1855, showcased her skill in capturing the movement and spirit of horses. This work gained critical acclaim during the Paris Salon, establishing her reputation as a leading artist of the time. Her dedication to realism and the naturalistic portrayal of animals set trends within the art community. An animal lover, she owned and cared for a variety of species, reflecting her passion in her paintings. Throughout her career, numerous exhibitions featured her works, solidifying her status in the art world.
Continue ReadingRebecca Cole
Physician and social reformer
Born
March 16th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1922 103 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1846, this individual was a pioneering African American physician and a significant figure in the women's rights movement. Graduating from the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1867, the individual became one of the first African American women to earn a medical degree. The practice focused on providing medical services to underserved populations and emphasized the importance of health education. In addition to practicing medicine, engaging in social reform efforts, particularly in the areas of education and public health, was a primary focus. The establishment of a school to train African American nurses was among the notable contributions to the healthcare field.
Continue ReadingLouis C. Wyman
American lawyer and U.S. Senator
Born
March 16th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a lawyer and a politician. Held the position of United States Senator from New Hampshire from 1953 to 1961. Also served as the New Hampshire Attorney General prior to entering the Senate. Engaged in various legal and legislative matters during tenure, contributing to state and national governance. Post-political career included involvement in private law practice, offering legal services and expertise.
Continue ReadingMatthew Flinders
English navigator and cartographer
Born
March 16th, 1774 251 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1814 211 years ago — 40 years old
Famous for significant contributions to the mapping of Australia, including the first complete map of the continent's coastline. Born in 1774, dedicated to exploration and navigation, completed extensive surveys of the Australian coast. Flinders' circumnavigation of Australia in the ship 'Investigator' advanced knowledge of the country's geography. His writings on the land and its characteristics were influential during his time and remain notable.
Continue ReadingJames Soong
Taiwanese politician and governor
Born
March 16th, 1942 83 years ago
Elected Governor of Taiwan Province and served multiple terms as a legislator in Taiwan. Founded the People First Party in 2000, which played a role in Taiwanese politics. Held various positions in the Council of Grand Justices and was involved in negotiations with mainland China.
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