Günther Prien

German U-boat commander during WWII

Günther Prien - German U-boat commander during WWII
Born

January 16th, 1908
117 years ago

Died

1941
84 years ago — 33 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

Germany

Links & References

Led U-47, a German submarine, during World War II. Achieved fame for sinking the British battleship HMS Royal Oak in October 1939 during a daring raid in Scapa Flow. Prien's exploits contributed to the early successes of the Kriegsmarine in the Atlantic theater. Commanded multiple successful patrols in the North Atlantic, further solidifying reputation as a skilled U-boat commander.

Sank HMS Royal Oak

Commanded U-47

Participated in early U-boat campaigns

Other People Born on January 16th

John Carpenter

Film director known for horror classics
Born
January 16th, 1948 77 years ago

An American director, producer, screenwriter, and composer, contributed significantly to the horror genre. Began directing in the 1970s, rising to prominence with the release of 'Halloween' in 1978, which established many conventions of slasher films. Developed a distinctive filmmaking style characterized by synthesizer-driven scores and suspenseful storytelling. Other notable works include 'The Thing', 'Escape from New York', and 'They Live'. Blended elements of horror, science fiction, and action to create memorable cinematic experiences. Influenced numerous filmmakers and remains an iconic figure in the horror genre.

Continue Reading

Anne F. Beiler

Businesswoman, Founder of Auntie Anne's
Born
January 16th, 1949 76 years ago

Founded Auntie Anne's, a popular pretzel franchise, which started as a stand in a farmer's market in 1988. Developed the brand into an international presence with hundreds of locations across the globe. Pioneered the concept of the fresh pretzel, which captured consumer attention and established a unique niche in the snack food industry.

Continue Reading

Mary Ann McMorrow

American lawyer and judge
Born
January 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 83 years old

Graduated from the University of Chicago Law School, where a legal scholar, later became a prominent figure in the Illinois judicial system. Appointed as an Associate Justice of the Illinois Supreme Court, serving from 1992 to 2000. Achieved the distinction of being the first woman to hold this position. During tenure, contributed to major judicial opinions and reforms within the state's legal framework. Promoted legal education and women's rights throughout career.

Continue Reading

Dorothe Engelbretsdatter

Norwegian author and poet of Baroque era
Born
January 16th, 1634 391 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1716 309 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to Baroque literature in Norway. Authored several poems and religious texts that reflected the themes of her time. Her works often emphasized faith, morality, and the struggles of life. Engelbretsdatter is credited with the first published book of poetry by a Norwegian woman, marking a significant moment in Norwegian literary history. She also worked as a translator, bringing various texts to the Norwegian audience. Engelbretsdatter lived during the 17th century in a time when women's literary contributions were often overlooked.

Continue Reading

Lucas Achtschellinck

Belgian painter and educator
Born
January 16th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1699 326 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1626, this individual became a significant figure in the art world through both painting and educational contributions. Specialized in the technique of grisaille, which imitates sculpture through painting, gained recognition for works that displayed mastery in depicting light and shadow. Held a prominent position in the educational sector, influencing a generation of artists and educators through detailed instruction in the aspects of painting and drawing.

Continue Reading

Greivis Vásquez

Basketball player, NCAA standout
Born
January 16th, 1987 38 years ago

Played college basketball at the University of Maryland, where led the team to an ACC Championship and received several awards including the ACC Player of the Year in 2010. Entered the NBA draft and was selected as the 28th overall pick in 2010 by the San Antonio Spurs. Played for multiple NBA teams including the New Orleans Hornets, Toronto Raptors, and the Sacramento Kings. Achieved career highs in points and assists during time in the league. Contributed to the Venezuelan national team in international competitions.

Continue Reading