Frederick William

Elector of Brandenburg and Prussia

Frederick William - Elector of Brandenburg and Prussia
Born

February 16th, 1620
405 years ago

Died

1688
337 years ago — 68 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Germany

Links & References

Born in 1620, served as Elector of Brandenburg and Duke of Prussia from 1640 until death in 1688. Led Brandenburg-Prussia through the Thirty Years' War. Expanded territories and strengthened central authority. Implemented reforms in administration and military. Promoted trade and modernization, laying groundwork for future expansion of the state.

Unified the Duchy of Prussia with Brandenburg

Expanded territories through military campaigns

Strengthened the central government of Brandenburg-Prussia

Reformed the military and administration of the state

Other People Born on February 16th

Angelo Peruzzi

Italian footballer and manager
Born
February 16th, 1970 55 years ago

A prominent Italian footballer and manager, celebrated for a distinguished goalkeeping career. Played for clubs such as Juventus, Lazio, and Inter Milan. Contributed to the Italian national team, featuring in the 1998 FIFA World Cup and winning UEFA Euro 2000. Transitioned into management after retirement from playing, taking on roles including coaching positions at various clubs. Recognized for his leadership skills on and off the pitch.

Continue Reading

Roberta Williams

Video game designer, co-founder of Sierra
Born
February 16th, 1953 72 years ago

An American video game designer co-founded Sierra Entertainment, a pioneer in the adventure game genre. Williams developed several groundbreaking games in the 1980s and 1990s, significantly influencing the industry. With a focus on narrative and character development, she created notable titles that engaged players in interactive storytelling. Her work helped establish graphical adventure games as a popular format. The company introduced numerous sequels that continued to build on these innovative advancements.

Continue Reading

Margot 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 Reading

Richard McDonald

Co-founder of McDonald's Corporation
Born
February 16th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1998 27 years ago — 89 years old

Co-founded McDonald's Corporation, which revolutionized the fast-food industry with its franchise model. Introduced a focus on speed, low prices, and a standardized menu that greatly contributed to the brand's success. Established the original McDonald's restaurant in San Bernardino, California in 1940, transitioning it into a franchised entity in 1955 under the leadership of his brother, Maurice. The innovation of the 'Speedee Service System' laid the groundwork for modern fast-food restaurant operations.

Continue Reading

Yuri Manin

Mathematician, contributed to algebraic geometry
Born
February 16th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1937, contributions included significant advancements in algebraic geometry and mathematical physics. Held positions at various prestigious institutions, including the University of Munich and the University of California, Santa Barbara. Authored influential works that shaped contemporary mathematics, particularly in areas like number theory and algebraic topology.

Continue Reading

Carl Icahn

Investor and Corporate Raider
Born
February 16th, 1936 89 years ago

An American businessman and investor, focused on leveraged buyouts and corporate activism. Founded Icahn Enterprises in 1987, leading a variety of high-profile investments across multiple industries. Played a significant role in challenging corporate governance practices and promoting shareholder rights. Engaged in numerous battles for control of companies, including Apple and Xerox, affecting management strategies and business operations. Operated as a prominent figure in the investment landscape, widely acknowledged for an aggressive investment approach and a strategic understanding of market dynamics.

Continue Reading