Hans-Dietrich Genscher

German politician and Vice-Chancellor

Hans-Dietrich Genscher - German politician and Vice-Chancellor
Born

March 21st, 1927
98 years ago

Died

March 31st, 2016
9 years ago — 89 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Germany

Links & References

Born in 1927, served as a soldier in the German Army during World War II. Entered politics post-war and became a prominent figure in the Free Democratic Party (FDP). Served as Vice-Chancellor and Minister of Foreign Affairs in Germany from 1974 to 1992, playing a significant role in German reunification and European integration. His diplomatic efforts were crucial in negotiating treaties and fostering relations during a period of significant change in Europe.

Served as Vice-Chancellor of Germany

Influential in German reunification

Held position as Minister of Foreign Affairs

Other People Born on March 21st

Sim Gokkes

Dutch composer and conductor of operas
Born
March 21st, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 46 years old

Born in 1897, a Dutch composer and conductor contributed significantly to the music scene in the Netherlands. Focus on operatic works defined the career, with compositions performed by various orchestras and opera companies. Leadership roles included conducting numerous performances across Europe. Gokkes' style blended traditional and contemporary elements, showcasing versatility in orchestration and composition. Works also reflected the cultural landscape of the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Chiney Ogwumike

Basketball player and ESPN analyst
Born
March 21st, 1992 33 years ago

Played professional basketball for the Connecticut Sun in the WNBA. Was a standout player at Stanford University, earning multiple All-American honors. Represented Nigeria in international competition, contributing to the national team in events like the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup.

Continue Reading

Marit Bjørgen

Cross-country skier and Olympic champion
Born
March 21st, 1980 45 years ago

A prominent cross-country skier, this individual secured 15 Olympic medals, making them the most decorated Winter Olympian in history. Success spanned multiple Olympic Games from 2002 to 2018, with standout performances contributing to Norway's dominance in the sport. In World Championships, achieved an impressive total of 18 medals, further solidifying a legacy in cross-country skiing. This individual retired in 2017, concluding a distinguished career with a strong influence on the sport.

Continue Reading

Nizar Qabbani

Syrian poet and diplomat celebrated for love
Born
March 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1998 27 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent Syrian poet, publisher, and diplomat, contributed significantly to Arabic literature. Published many volumes of poetry exploring themes of love, feminism, and social issues. Established the publishing house Qabbani & Sons, promoting literary works in the Arab world. Served as a diplomat in several countries, including Turkey and the UK, where exposure to different cultures influenced literary style. Regarded as a leading figure in modern Arabic poetry, both in terms of style and thematic exploration, with works being translated into various languages.

Continue Reading

Friedrich Waismann

Austrian philosopher and mathematician
Born
March 21st, 1896 129 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1959 65 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1896, a significant figure in the Vienna Circle, contributed to the philosophy of language, and was involved in logical positivism. Waismann focused on the foundations of mathematics and the philosophy of mathematics, emphasizing the logical structure of mathematical theories. His work explored the relationship between language and reality, critiquing the limits of language and the meaning of mathematical statements. Waismann's ideas also intersected with scientific discourse, particularly in the realms of physics and mathematics, drawing connections between empirical observation and theoretical constructs.

Continue Reading

Michale Graves

Singer-songwriter, Misfits vocalist
Born
March 21st, 1975 50 years ago

Born in 1975, a singer-songwriter rose to prominence as the lead vocalist for the punk rock band Misfits. During the late 1990s, contributed to the band’s notable albums, including 'American Psycho' and 'Famous Monsters.' After leaving Misfits, launched a solo career, releasing several albums and maintaining a strong presence in the punk and horror punk scene. Engaged in various artistic endeavors including acting, fashion design, and writing, fostering a distinctive personal brand.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 31st

Ralph DePalma

Race car driver and early Hollywood actor
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1956 69 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent Italian-American race car driver and actor, competed in the early 20th century. Gained recognition in the automobile racing circuit, achieving significant success in the Indianapolis 500, where a victory eluded despite multiple attempts. Transitioned to acting, appearing in silent films, showcasing versatility beyond racing. Contributed to the development of automobile technology, testing innovative designs and performance enhancements throughout racing career.

Continue Reading

Jackie McLean

Jazz saxophonist and composer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2006 19 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent American jazz saxophonist and composer emerged as a leading figure in the hard bop era. McLean showed significant prowess on the alto saxophone and contributed to the development of modern jazz. He worked alongside notable musicians such as Charles Mingus and Miles Davis. Throughout a career spanning several decades, McLean recorded numerous albums, showcasing his innovative style and approach to jazz. His collaborations and compositions have left a lasting mark on the genre.

Continue Reading

Kang Youwei

Chinese scholar and political reformer
Born
March 19th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1927 98 years ago — 69 years old

A key figure in late Qing Dynasty reform efforts, he advocated for educational and political reforms within China. He was a proponent of constitutional monarchy and sought to modernize Chinese society. His book, 'Datong Shu' (The Book of Great Unity), outlined his vision for a reformed China. In 1898, he played a central role in the Hundred Days' Reform, which aimed to implement significant changes in governance and society. After the reform movement was suppressed, he went into exile and continued to promote reform ideas through writings and lectures.

Continue Reading

Muhammad Wakkas

Bangladeshi teacher and parliamentarian
Born
January 15th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2021 4 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1952, a notable figure in Bangladeshi education and politics. Served as a teacher and held a significant role in parliament as a member of the Awami League. Engaged in various educational initiatives aimed at improving literacy and access to education in Bangladesh. Contributed to legislative discussions and policies affecting the educational sector in the country.

Continue Reading

Enid Bagnold

English author and playwright, wrote 'The Chalk Garden'
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1981 44 years ago — 92 years old

An English author and playwright gained recognition for literature that often explored themes of family and nature. Best known for the play 'The Chalk Garden', which debuted in 1955, the work showcases her ability to create complex characters and intricate plots. Bagnold also achieved success with her semi-autobiographical novel 'National Velvet', published in 1935, focusing on a young girl and her dream of horse racing. The novel's success led to a popular film adaptation in 1944, cementing its place in British literary history. Throughout her career, Bagnold wrote numerous plays and novels, contributing to the literary world with her unique voice and perspective.

Continue Reading

Bernard O. Gruenke

Stained glass artist and craftsman
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 98 years old

Specialized in creating intricate stained glass windows, contributing to various churches and public buildings across the United States. Developed unique techniques that enhanced the vibrancy and durability of stained glass art. Part of projects that incorporated modern themes while honoring traditional craftsmanship. Active in the stained glass community, sharing knowledge and techniques with aspiring artists. His works remain integral to both religious and artistic spaces.

Continue Reading