Francis Galton
Polymath, anthropologist, and geographer
Contributed significantly to the fields of anthropology, geography, and statistics. Introduced the concept of eugenics and was a pioneer in the study of human intelligence. Developed statistical methods including correlation and regression and applied them to various fields. Galton's interest in fingerprint analysis led to it being adopted as an identification method. Founded the discipline of biometrics.
Pioneered the field of eugenics
Developed statistical methods like correlation
Introduced fingerprinting as an identification method
Other People Born on February 16th
James Colosimo
Italian-American mob boss at the Chicago Outfit
Born
February 16th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1920 105 years ago — 42 years old
An Italian-American mob boss became a significant figure in organized crime during the early 20th century. Colosimo immigrated to the United States and established himself as a key player in Chicago's underworld. His activities included prostitution, gambling, and mob operations. Colosimo's leadership and connections helped shape the Chicago Outfit, a major crime syndicate. His tenure was marked by expansion and influence in various illegal enterprises until his assassination in 1920.
Continue ReadingEdgar Bergen
Ventriloquist and actor with Charlie McCarthy
Born
February 16th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1978 47 years ago — 75 years old
A ventriloquist and actor, this individual gained fame during the mid-20th century with the creation of the character Charlie McCarthy. Bergen's performances combined humor and innovative ventriloquism techniques, captivating audiences through radio and television. The ventriloquist's radio show, 'The Edgar Bergen-Charlie McCarthy Show,' aired from 1937 to 1956 and featured numerous guest stars. His work in film included appearances in 'The Goldwyn Follies' and 'Hollywood Hotel.' Bergen's unique talent helped to popularize ventriloquism as a form of entertainment.
Continue ReadingPeter Porter
Poet and educator, wrote 'The Last Innocent'
Born
February 16th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1929, a poet and educator contributed significantly to contemporary poetry in Australia and England. Porter emigrated to Australia from England in 1951 but returned to the UK in 1961. His poetry featured wit and emotional depth, often reflecting on themes of loss and identity. His collections include 'The Last Innocent' and 'The Cost of Seriousness'. Alongside poetry, engaged in teaching and mentoring young writers, influencing future generations of poets.
Continue ReadingMargot Frank
Holocaust victim and diary author
Born
February 16th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 19 years old
Born in Germany in 1926, a Jewish girl faced persecution during World War II. In 1933, fled to the Netherlands with the family to escape Nazi discrimination. In 1942, went into hiding in Amsterdam with the family to avoid deportation. This period was documented in a diary, providing insight into life in hiding. Arrested in 1944 and deported to Auschwitz and later to Bergen-Belsen, where she died in early 1945.
Continue ReadingWayne King
American singer-songwriter and conductor
Born
February 16th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1985 40 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent figure in the music industry, contributed significantly as a bandleader and conductor. Gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s, leading the Wayne King Orchestra, which became renowned for its romantic music style and dance arrangements. Achieved notable success with recordings of light classical pieces, popular songs, and his signature waltzes. The orchestra performed extensively on radio and in live concerts, establishing a wide audience. In addition to conducting, engaged in songwriting, furthering the appeal of the music through original compositions.
Continue ReadingOssian Everett Mills
Academic; founded Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
Born
February 16th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
1920 105 years ago — 64 years old
Founded Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, a predominantly male music fraternity, in 1898. Contributed to the development of music education in the United States through academic positions. Advocated for the importance of music in education and community life. Played a significant role in establishing standards for music instruction.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 17th
Clyde Tombaugh
American astronomer, discovered Pluto
Born
February 4th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1997 28 years ago — 90 years old
An American astronomer and academic, contributed to the field of astronomy through the discovery of Pluto. Employed at the Lowell Observatory in Arizona, utilized the technique of detecting planetary bodies through photographic plates. Conducted extensive studies of Mars and other celestial objects. Taught at New Mexico State University and authored several scientific papers, solidifying a legacy in planetary science.
Continue ReadingSyedna Mohammed Burhanuddin
Spiritual leader, 52nd Da'i al-Mutlaq
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 99 years old
Served as the 52nd Da'i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra community from 1965 until passing in 2014. Focused on religious and communal guidance, promoting education and social welfare among followers. Elevated the position of the community through various initiatives and projects, emphasizing the importance of unity and progress. Authored numerous religious texts and led annual pilgrimages to significant sites, strengthening the faith and community bonds.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Church
American colonial military leader
Born
1639 386 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1718 307 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a colonel in the British Army during the early colonial period. Played a significant role in King Philip's War, leading colonial forces against Native American tribes in New England. Founded the Church Company, contributing to colonial military tactics. His military strategies were influential in the development of American colonial defense.
Continue ReadingAlbert Jacka
Australian soldier, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
January 10th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1932 93 years ago — 39 years old
Served as a soldier during World War I, participating in various key battles. Captured and held during the Gallipoli Campaign, later fought on the Western Front. Achieved the Victoria Cross for bravery at the 1916 Battle of Pozieres, recognized for acts of valor under heavy fire. Promoted to captain and held leadership positions in subsequent engagements.
Continue ReadingJohn of Brittany
Earl of Richmond
Born
1266 759 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1334 691 years ago — 68 years old
Served as the Earl of Richmond in the 14th century. Acted as a notable baron in England during the reign of Edward II. Engaged in various conflicts and political maneuvers characteristic of noble power struggles at the time. Became involved in the political landscape of Brittany and England, reflecting the intertwining of these regions through feudal allegiances.
Continue ReadingMelvin Day
New Zealand painter and historian
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old
An accomplished painter and historian focused on New Zealand's artistic landscape. Specialization in traditional Māori art and contemporary New Zealand painting marked significant contributions. Worked as a lecturer in the School of Fine Arts at the University of Canterbury, influencing a generation of artists. Published various texts on art history and its context in New Zealand, enriching the understanding of the country's cultural identity.
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