Ibrahim Boubacar Keita
Former Malian President and politician
Served as the President of Mali from 2013 until 2020. Previously held the position of Prime Minister in the 1990s. Played a significant role in political reform and governance in Mali during his tenure. Faced challenges including political unrest and security issues related to terrorism in the region. His presidency was marked by efforts to stabilize the country amidst ongoing conflicts.
Served as Prime Minister of Mali from 1994 to 1995
Elected President of Mali in 2013
Oversaw Mali's return to democracy after a military coup
Other People Born on January 29th
Sydney Chapman
Mathematician and geophysicist
Born
January 29th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1970 55 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions to mathematics and geophysics included significant work on the theory of the upper atmosphere and the interaction of the solar wind with the Earth's magnetosphere. Developed the Chapman function, extensively applied in atmospheric science. Also, researched the conditions and theories related to the stratosphere and ionosphere.
Continue ReadingPaul Ryan
American Politician, 62nd Speaker of the House
Born
January 29th, 1970 55 years ago
Served as a prominent American politician and was the 62nd Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 2015 to 2019. Represented Wisconsin's 1st congressional district from 1999 to 2019. Played a key role in the passage of significant legislation, including tax reform in 2017 and the repeal of parts of the Affordable Care Act. Served as the Republican vice-presidential nominee in 2012 alongside Mitt Romney. Involved in various committees and shaped significant policy discussions during tenure.
Continue ReadingTeresa Teng
Taiwanese pop singer with timeless ballads
Born
January 29th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1995 30 years ago — 42 years old
A prominent pop singer from Taiwan who gained popularity across Asia during the 1970s and 1980s. Famous for a unique voice and romantic ballads, albums included hits in Mandarin, Cantonese, and Japanese. Songs such as 'The Moon Represents My Heart' and 'When Will You Return?' became classics. Her music often explored themes of love and nostalgia, resonating deeply with audiences. Despite her untimely death in 1995, songs continue to be celebrated and are influential in the pop music genre.
Continue ReadingAmii Stewart
Singer and dancer most famous for 'Knock on Wood'
Born
January 29th, 1956 69 years ago
Born in 1956, this American singer and dancer gained prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s. She gained significant popularity with the disco hit 'Knock on Wood' which topped the charts in 1979. The single showcased a blend of disco and soul, leading to a successful career in music and performance. Besides singing, she was also recognized for her dynamic dance performances, highlighting her versatility as an entertainer. Following her initial success, multiple albums and singles followed, contributing to the dance and pop music scenes during her active years.
Continue ReadingSean Burke
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
January 29th, 1967 58 years ago
Played as a goaltender in the NHL for multiple teams including the New Jersey Devils, where a standout performance contributed to the team's playoff success. Recognized for exceptional skills and leadership qualities, transitioned to coaching roles after retiring from active play. Served as a goaltending coach and head coach, influencing the development of upcoming talent in the sport.
Continue ReadingHenry Ward Ranger
American painter and academic
Born
January 29th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1916 109 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1858, an American painter and academic specialized in landscape painting. Ranger played a pivotal role in the emergence of American Impressionism. He studied in Paris and developed a style that showcased the interplay of light and color in natural settings. Ranger was a founding member of the Old Lyme Art Colony, which became a central hub for Impressionist artists in America. His teaching at various art institutions also influenced many aspiring painters, promoting the Impressionist movement across the country.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 16th
Jimmy Castor
American singer-songwriter and saxophonist
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 72 years old
Active in the music industry from the 1960s, a saxophonist and singer-songwriter created a distinctive blend of funk, soul, and R&B. Achieved significant success with hit singles that resonated in clubs and on the radio. The work 'Troglodyte (Cave Man)' reached the top of the charts, showcasing a unique style that embraced humor and creativity. Collaborated with various artists and performed extensively, leaving a lasting mark on the genre of funk.
Continue ReadingPauline Phillips
Journalist and creator of Dear Abby
Born
July 4th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
A journalist and radio host played a significant role in American media by creating the advice column 'Dear Abby'. The column provided guidance on various personal issues and became a staple in newspapers across the country. For decades, the work reached millions, addressing topics ranging from relationships to moral dilemmas. The columnist's straightforward style and humor attracted a wide readership and engagement, contributing to the ongoing popularity of advice columns in print and digital media.
Continue ReadingGeorge Spalatin
German priest and reformer
Born
January 17th, 1484 541 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1545 480 years ago — 60 years old
A key figure in the early Protestant Reformation, contributed significantly to the movement led by Martin Luther. Played a vital role as a confidant and advisor to Luther, promoting reformist ideas. Served as a pastor and theologian, focusing on church reform and the spread of Lutheran teachings. Actively engaged in educational reforms, helping to establish schools that adhered to Reformation principles. His writings and correspondence were pivotal in advancing the Reformation in Germany.
Continue ReadingAndré Cassagnes
Toy maker, creator of the Etch A Sketch
Born
September 23rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
Developed the Etch A Sketch, a popular drawing toy, revolutionizing the way children interact with art. The invention allowed users to create drawings by turning two knobs, controlling a stylus that moved across a screen, leaving a distinctive aluminum powder mark. Introduced to the market in 1960, the toy achieved substantial sales and became a cherished item in many households. Entire generations grew up using the Etch A Sketch, which remains a classic example of innovative design in the toy industry.
Continue ReadingAndrija Artuković
Croatian Minister of Interior
Born
November 29th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1988 37 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the Minister of Interior during the Independent State of Croatia from 1941 to 1945. Oversaw the internal security and law enforcement agencies of the wartime regime. Worked closely with the Ustaše government, contributing to policies that led to significant human rights violations during World War II. After the war, faced charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, resulting in a long exile before being apprehended and tried in the 1980s.
Continue ReadingJohannes Schöner
German astronomer and cartographer
Born
January 16th, 1477 548 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1547 478 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of astronomy and cartography during the Renaissance. Designed celestial globes that illustrated the movements of celestial bodies. Produced maps that reflected the geographical knowledge of the time, including the first map of the Americas. Collaborated with other scholars and continued the work of earlier astronomers in refining astrological techniques. Schöner's work laid groundwork for future advancements in navigation and geography.
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