Gaspard II de Coligny
French Admiral and military leader
Served as an admiral in the French navy during significant conflicts in the 16th century. Played a crucial role in the Wars of Religion in France, advocating for the Protestant cause. Instrumental in the planning of military operations against the Spanish and other factions. Assassinated in 1572 during the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre, which marked a turning point in French history.
Led French naval campaigns during the Huguenot Wars
Played a key military role at the Battle of Montcontour
Promoted Protestant interests in France
Other People Born on February 16th
Sergio Canales
Spanish professional footballer
Born
February 16th, 1991 35 years ago
A professional footballer who played as a midfielder, achieved recognition in La Liga. Started professional career with Racing Santander, later transferred to Real Madrid. Played for multiple clubs including Real Sociedad and Real Betis. Contributed significantly to club successes and demonstrated skill in both playmaking and scoring.
Continue ReadingJaroslav Kubera
Czech politician and Senate President
Born
February 16th, 1947 79 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2020 6 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a prominent Czech politician, holding the position of President of the Senate from 2018 until death in 2020. Represented the Civic Democratic Party and was active in regional politics prior to his role in the Senate. Emphasized issues related to provincial development and local governance.
Continue ReadingFrancis Galton
Polymath, anthropologist, and geographer
Born
February 16th, 1822 204 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1911 115 years ago — 88 years old
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.
Continue ReadingFrederick William
Elector of Brandenburg and Prussia
Born
February 16th, 1620 406 years ago
Died
1688 338 years ago — 68 years old
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.
Continue ReadingPeter Kosler
Lawyer and leading cartographer in Slovenia
Born
February 16th, 1824 202 years ago
Died
1879 147 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1824, a lawyer, geographer, and cartographer made significant contributions to the field of cartography in Slovenia. Authored several important maps and geographical works that helped define Slovenian territory. Played a key role in the promotion of Slovene identity through detailed mapping and geographical studies. His work laid foundations for future geographical research in the region.
Continue ReadingHeinz-Wolfgang Schnaufer
German soldier and pilot during WWII
Born
February 16th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 28 years old
Participated in World War II as a Luftwaffe pilot. Achieved a high number of aerial victories, becoming one of the leading night fighters of the conflict. Actively engaged in several major battles, demonstrating tactical expertise in combat. Received numerous commendations for contributions to air warfare tactics and strategy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 24th
Muriel Siebert
Businesswoman and philanthropist
Born
September 12th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2013 13 years ago — 84 years old
Established the first female-owned brokerage firm in New York named Muriel F. 'Mickie' Siebert, Inc. Played a significant role in advancing women in finance and politics. Served as the first female Superintendent of Banks for the State of New York from 1977 to 1982. Engaged in numerous philanthropic efforts aimed at educational and economic opportunities for women.
Continue ReadingFerenc Kölcsey
Hungarian poet and political figure
Born
August 8th, 1790 236 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1838 188 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent figure in Hungarian literature, Kölcsey authored the national poem 'Himnusz', which became the official anthem of Hungary. His literary work also includes critical essays that significantly shaped Hungarian poetry. In addition to his contributions to literature, Kölcsey was active in politics, serving in various capacities and advocating for cultural and political reforms. His tenure in the national political scene placed him among the influential intellectuals of his time.
Continue ReadingKalevi Kotkas
High jumper and discus thrower
Born
August 10th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1983 43 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1913, competed in athletics, specializing in high jump and discus throw. Represented Estonia and Finland in several international competitions. Achieved significant success in the 1930s and 1940s, participating in European championships. Notable for strong performances in both disciplines, contributing to Estonia's athletic prominence during that era.
Continue ReadingTom Norman
English businessman and entrepreneur
Born
May 7th, 1860 166 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1930 96 years ago — 70 years old
A businessman from England, played a significant role in the candy industry. Established a successful confectionery company that produced a wide variety of sweets. Became prominent for creating a popular line of products that gained a large customer base. The business was rooted in traditional recipes and showcased an understanding of market trends. Focused on quality and innovation, which led to an expansion in the company’s offerings. Managed the brand to achieve recognition during its peak years in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingElisabeth Kübler-Ross
Psychiatrist, author, and grief expert
Born
July 8th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2004 22 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of the psychological aspects of death and dying. Developed the five stages of grief model: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Authored several influential books on the topic, including 'On Death and Dying', which introduced the stages to a wider audience. Provided pivotal support and education for those coping with terminal illness and their families.
Continue ReadingCharlie Watts
Drummer for The Rolling Stones
Born
June 2nd, 1941 85 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2021 5 years ago — 80 years old
A drummer, songwriter, and producer who played with The Rolling Stones for over 50 years, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. Watts began his career in the early 1960s and became a key member of the group, known for its energetic performances and significant influence on rock music. He also worked on various jazz projects and collaborated with other musicians. His style combined a steady rhythm with an affinity for jazz influences, making him a respected figure in the music industry.
Continue Reading