Heshen

Chinese politician and court official

Heshen - Leaders & Politicians born 1750
Born

1750
276 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

China

Links & References

Served as a prominent official in the Qing dynasty, holding the position of Grand Councillor. Played a significant role during the reign of the Qianlong Emperor, gaining influence through connections and loyalty to the emperor. Oversaw various administrative and military matters, contributing to policy decisions of the time. His tenure elicited both favor and criticism, leading to substantial wealth accumulation. After the death of Qianlong, faced political decline and was implicated in corruption, ultimately leading to downfall and disgrace. Died in exile in 1799.

Served as Grand Councillor in the Qing dynasty

Influenced policies during Qianlong Emperor's reign

Amassed significant wealth and power

Other People Who Died on February 22nd

Jonas Savimbi

Angolan general, founded UNITA
Born
August 3rd, 1934 92 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2002 24 years ago — 67 years old

Founded the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) in 1966. Led UNITA as a prominent faction during the Angolan Civil War, which lasted from 1975 to 2002. Engaged in conflict against the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA). Played a crucial role in the resistance against the Angolan government, which influenced regional dynamics in Southern Africa.

Continue Reading

Stefan Zweig

Austrian author and playwright
Born
November 28th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1942 84 years ago — 60 years old

An Austrian journalist, author, and playwright, contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. Works explored themes of identity, culture, and existential crisis. Gained prominence in the literary world with works such as 'The World of Yesterday,' an autobiographical reflection on pre-war Europe, and 'Letter from an Unknown Woman,' a poignant novella highlighting unrequited love. Fled Austria during the rise of Nazism, leading to a life of exile. Eventually settled in Brazil, where the later years were marked by his despair over the destruction of European culture.

Continue Reading

Efrem Zimbalist

Violinist and conductor of classical music
Born
1889 137 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1985 41 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Russia, a prominent violinist, composer, and conductor emerged as a significant figure in classical music. After studying under notable teachers, gained recognition for performances with major orchestras in the United States and Europe. Served as the concertmaster for the New York Philharmonic and taught at various prestigious institutions. Established a successful recording career and contributed to the music community through teaching and mentoring. His performances set standards in violin technique and interpretation, with a legacy that continues to influence musicians.

Continue Reading

Paul-Émile Borduas

Painter and critic of abstract art
Born
November 1st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1960 66 years ago — 54 years old

Originated from Canada, this painter and critic contributed significantly to the development of abstract art. In 1948, authored the manifesto 'Refus Global', which rejected traditional artistic practices and advocated for freedom in creating art. Participated in the Automatistes movement, which emphasized spontaneous, free creation, like the works created during the 1940s and 50s. Work reflects a strong influence of surrealism and lyrical abstraction.

Continue Reading

Wolfgang Sawallisch

Pianist and Conductor with Berlin Philharmonic
Born
August 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2013 13 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent pianist and conductor, recognized for contributions to classical music. Served as musical director of the Munich Philharmonic, where tenure from 1993 to 2001 highlighted significant orchestral performances. Conducted prestigious opera houses, including the Vienna State Opera and the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. Known for interpretations of Richard Strauss and other German composers, brought forth clarity and depth in orchestral music during concert performances and recordings. Maintained a long-term collaboration with the Berlin Philharmonic, enhancing the orchestra's repertoire and public recognition.

Continue Reading

Josh Malihabadi

Indian-Pakistani poet and author
Born
December 5th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1982 44 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent Urdu poet and author, contributed significantly to modern Urdu poetry. Birth occurred in 1898 in what is now India, leading to a literary career marked by political activism and social commentary. The poet faced exile and displacement during the partition of India in 1947, moving to Pakistan. Various literary works, including ghazals and poems, expressed themes of love, patriotism, and social justice. Worked as an editor for several literary magazines and participated in various cultural movements. The literary contributions have been recognized in both India and Pakistan.

Continue Reading