Heinrich Barth
German explorer and African studies scholar
Conducted extensive explorations in North and West Africa during the 19th century. Barth embarked on a journey from Tripoli to Timbuktu, which lasted from 1850 to 1855. Through this expedition, valuable geographical, ethnographic, and linguistic knowledge was gathered, significantly contributing to the understanding of African cultures and geography. Barth published several works detailing his travels, including 'Travels and Discoveries in North and Central Africa'. His research greatly influenced European perspectives of Africa during that era.
Explored North and West Africa, 1850-1855
Authored 'Travels and Discoveries in North and Central Africa'
Other People Born on February 16th
Peter Porter
Poet and educator, wrote 'The Last Innocent'
Born
February 16th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1929, a poet and educator contributed significantly to contemporary poetry in Australia and England. Porter emigrated to Australia from England in 1951 but returned to the UK in 1961. His poetry featured wit and emotional depth, often reflecting on themes of loss and identity. His collections include 'The Last Innocent' and 'The Cost of Seriousness'. Alongside poetry, engaged in teaching and mentoring young writers, influencing future generations of poets.
Continue ReadingMargot Frank
Holocaust victim and diary author
Born
February 16th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1945 81 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 ReadingOssian Everett Mills
Academic; founded Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
Born
February 16th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
1920 106 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 ReadingEdgar Bergen
Ventriloquist and actor with Charlie McCarthy
Born
February 16th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1978 47 years ago — 75 years old
A ventriloquist and actor, this individual gained fame during the mid-20th century with the creation of the character Charlie McCarthy. Bergen's performances combined humor and innovative ventriloquism techniques, captivating audiences through radio and television. The ventriloquist's radio show, 'The Edgar Bergen-Charlie McCarthy Show,' aired from 1937 to 1956 and featured numerous guest stars. His work in film included appearances in 'The Goldwyn Follies' and 'Hollywood Hotel.' Bergen's unique talent helped to popularize ventriloquism as a form of entertainment.
Continue ReadingPhilip Melanchthon
German theologian and academic reformer
Born
February 16th, 1497 528 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1560 465 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent theologian and key figure of the Protestant Reformation, contributed significantly to the development of Lutheran doctrine. Served as a professor in Wittenberg, where his teachings shaped many aspects of Protestant belief and church practices. Authored numerous works, including the 'Loci Communes,' which systematized theological principles. Played a crucial role in the formulation of the Augsburg Confession, a central document of Lutheranism presented in 1530. Engaged with major theological disputes and sought to promote unity among Protestant factions.
Continue ReadingKoffee
Jamaican reggae singer and Grammy winner
Born
February 16th, 2000 25 years ago
A prominent reggae singer and songwriter, Koffee gained international attention with her breakout single 'Toast' in 2019. The song celebrated success and resilience, showcasing her distinctive blend of reggae and dancehall. Koffee's debut EP, 'Rapture', released in 2019, earned critical acclaim and commercial popularity. In 2020, Koffee won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album, becoming the youngest person and only the second woman to receive the award. Her style and lyrical content resonate with a youthful audience, reflecting themes of empowerment and positivity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 25th
Al Plastino
Comic book author and illustrator
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
An American comic book author and illustrator contributed significantly to the comic book industry from the 1940s onward. Notable works include illustrated stories for Superman, including the famed 'Superman: The Secret Years' and contributions to a variety of other DC Comics titles. Plastino also worked on characters such as Supergirl and Aquaman. His art and storytelling helped shape the narrative styles and visual presentation of superhero comics during a pivotal time in the genre's development.
Continue ReadingPeter Lipton
Philosopher known for works on science
Born
1954 72 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2007 18 years ago — 53 years old
An academic focused on the philosophy of science, contributions included discussions on scientific explanation, realism, and the nature of scientific theories. Lipton served as a professor at the University of Cambridge, where he influenced the field through teaching and published works. Authored several influential texts, including 'Inference to the Best Explanation,' which explored the methodology of scientific reasoning. Engaged in debates regarding the justification of scientific practices and the role of evidence in theory acceptance.
Continue ReadingValentín Campa
Union leader and politician
Born
1904 122 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1999 26 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent union leader and politician in Mexico, significantly influenced labor movements during the mid-20th century. Served as the general secretary of the Mexican Electricians' Union. Actively participated in the Mexican labor movement, advocating for workers' rights and improving conditions. Held a seat in the Chamber of Deputies and was a member of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). His efforts contributed to the establishment of various labor rights legislation in Mexico.
Continue ReadingHastings Banda
Malawian politician and physician
Born
1898 128 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1997 28 years ago — 99 years old
A physician who transitioned into politics, the individual served as the first President of Malawi from 1964 to 1994. Under leadership, Malawi adopted a one-party state, with significant emphasis on independence and national identity. Education and health reforms were prioritized, with efforts made to increase accessibility in these sectors. The individual played a critical role in the formation of Malawi's political landscape following independence from British colonial rule, fostering both national pride and civil governance.
Continue ReadingCoco Robicheaux
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2011 14 years ago — 64 years old
Music career began in the 1960s, playing in New Orleans. Worked with various musicians across genres, blending blues, rock, and Cajun styles. Released multiple albums, gaining a following in the local music scene. Known for lively performances that often showcased a mix of original songs and traditional New Orleans music. Contributed to the sound of the region through collaborations and performances.
Continue ReadingPetr Hapka
Czech composer and conductor of film scores
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent Czech composer and conductor has made significant contributions to film music, theater, and popular songs. Worked extensively in Czech cinema, creating memorable scores for numerous films and collaborating with notable lyricists, including Michal Horáček. His compositions captured the essence of stories through music, establishing a lasting legacy in Czech culture. Received recognition for his contributions to arts and music throughout his career, and remained an influential figure until death in 2014.
Continue Reading