Frederick William
Elector of Brandenburg and Prussia
Born
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
Luc Bourdon
Canadian Ice Hockey Player with Vancouver Canucks
Born
February 16th, 1987 38 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2008 17 years ago — 21 years old
Accomplished ice hockey player played in the NHL. Drafted 10th overall by the Vancouver Canucks in 2005. Took part in international competitions representing Canada, notably winning a gold medal at the 2006 World Junior Championships. Played as a defenseman, known for his strong skating ability and physical style of play. Tragically passed away in 2008 at a young age, which cut short a promising career.
Continue ReadingIan Clarke
Computer Scientist, Founder of Freenet
Born
February 16th, 1977 48 years ago
Born in 1977, a computer scientist contributed significantly to the development of peer-to-peer networking technologies. Founded Freenet, a decentralized communication platform aimed at protecting freedom of speech and privacy. Focused on privacy, security, and censorship-resistant technologies throughout the career. Engaged in various projects that revolved around internet freedom and digital rights.
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 ReadingKim Jong Il
North Korean Supreme Leader
Born
February 16th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the Supreme Leader of North Korea from 1994 until death in 2011. Assumed leadership following the death of Kim Il-sung. Led North Korea during a period marked by significant economic challenges and international isolation. Initiated nuclear weapons development, contributing to ongoing tensions with global powers. Oversaw the militarization of the country and maintained strict control over North Korean society through a system of propaganda and repression. His rule was characterized by significant human rights abuses and the continued prioritization of the military sector over economic reform.
Continue ReadingJohn Balance
English singer-songwriter and performer
Born
February 16th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 42 years old
An English singer-songwriter and musician, credited as a founding member of the experimental music group Coil. The group was influential in the avant-garde and industrial music scenes, blending music, multimedia, and performance art. Balance contributed to both vocals and instrumentation, and was instrumental in defining the sound of Coil. Utilized various styles across the discography, with a focus on themes of spirituality, sexuality, and the occult. Released albums such as 'Scatology' and 'Horse Rotorvator'. The work of the group is often categorized as dark ambient and noise music.
Continue ReadingOtis Blackwell
Singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
February 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2002 23 years ago — 71 years old
Developed a successful career as a singer-songwriter and pianist, contributing significantly to the music industry. Gained recognition for writing hit songs in the 1950s for various artists. Collaborated with prominent musicians, enhancing the sound of rock and roll during its formative years. Worked with artists such as Elvis Presley, contributing to the creation of several iconic tracks.
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