Jan van Riebeeck
Dutch politician, founder of Cape Town
A Dutch politician established a refreshment station for the Dutch East India Company at Cape of Good Hope in 1652, which later evolved into Cape Town. The settlement aimed to provide support for ships en route to the East Indies. Van Riebeeck served as the company's first commander, overseeing the initial development of the colony, including agriculture and trade routes. He played a critical role in the interactions between European settlers and local indigenous populations during the early stages of colonial expansion in Southern Africa.
Founded Cape Town in 1652
Led Dutch East India Company's settlement efforts
Other People Born on April 21st
Mikel Oyarzabal
Spanish footballer, Real Sociedad forward
Born
April 21st, 1997 28 years ago
Born in 1997, a professional footballer, primarily plays as a forward. Emerged through the youth system of Real Sociedad, debuting for the senior team in 2015. Achieved significant success with the club, including helping Real Sociedad secure the Copa del Rey title in 2020. Internationally, represented Spain at various youth levels and made appearances for the senior national team, contributing to their triumph in the 2021 UEFA European Championship.
Continue ReadingIgnatius Zakka I Iwas
Iraqi patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church
Born
April 21st, 1933 92 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church from 1980 until death in 2014. Oversaw a significant period of growth within the church and participated in interfaith dialogue efforts, promoting cooperation among different Christian denominations and between religions. Actively engaged in humanitarian work, focusing on the rights and welfare of Christians in the Middle East. His leadership spanned major events affecting the church and its followers in Iraq and beyond.
Continue ReadingMaurice Wilson
English soldier and mountaineer
Born
April 21st, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 36 years old
Born in 1898, served as a soldier in World War I, later becoming an accomplished pilot. In 1934, aimed to summit Mount Everest, undertaking a solo expedition without supplemental oxygen. The journey was marked by challenges, ultimately resulting in disappearance on the mountain.
Continue ReadingArianne Hartono
Dutch tennis player and Grand Slam contender
Born
April 21st, 1996 29 years ago
Arianne Hartono is a professional tennis player from the Netherlands. Competing in women's singles and doubles, significant achievements include participation in major Grand Slam tournaments. Hartono gained recognition for her performances on the ITF Women's Circuit and the WTA Tour, showcasing a strong playing style and competitive spirit. Throughout the career, key victories in several tournaments highlighted her skill and determination on the court.
Continue ReadingYoshito Usui
Japanese illustrator of Crayon Shin-chan
Born
April 21st, 1958 67 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 51 years old
An illustrator and manga artist, gained prominence through the creation of the manga series Crayon Shin-chan, which debuted in 1990. The series follows the adventures of a mischievous five-year-old boy and reflects everyday life in a humorous manner. Usui's work led to adaptations in both animated television series and films, achieving widespread popularity in Japan and internationally. His distinctive drawing style and storytelling contributed to the series being recognized as a significant work in manga culture.
Continue ReadingWilhelmine Amalia of Brunswick-Lüneburg
Duchess of Saxe-Eisenach and patron
Born
April 21st, 1673 352 years ago
Died
1742 283 years ago — 69 years old
Born into the House of Brunswick-Lüneburg, served as the Duchess of Saxe-Eisenach. Played a significant role in the cultural enrichment of her court, promoting arts and education. Married Johann Georg I, Duke of Saxe-Eisenach, and was involved in the political and social life of the duchy. Notably, her patronage supported various artistic endeavors, contributing to the cultural heritage of the region. Through her descendants, her influence extended beyond her own reign.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 18th
Robert B. Parker
Author of Spencer detective novels
Born
September 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 77 years old
An American author and academic, this individual gained prominence for creating the iconic detective character Spencer, appearing in a series of novels that began in the 1970s. The Spencer series showcased a mix of traditional mystery elements with a modern, hard-boiled style. Beyond this, the individual wrote several other book series, including those featuring Jesse Stone and Sunny Randall. The prolific writer's works contributed significantly to the crime fiction genre, and many were adapted into television films. Academic pursuits included teaching writing at the university level, further influencing the next generation of authors.
Continue ReadingGlenn Frey
Singer-songwriter and guitarist for Eagles
Born
November 6th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2016 9 years ago — 67 years old
An influential singer-songwriter and musician co-founded the rock band Eagles. The group achieved massive success in the 1970s with hits like 'Hotel California' and 'Take It Easy,' contributing significantly to the genre of rock music. Frey also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles, including 'The Heat Is On' for the soundtrack of the movie 'Beverly Hills Cop.' In addition to music, Frey appeared as an actor in shows such as 'Miami Vice.' His contributions to music were recognized with various awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Frey remained active in music until his passing in 2016.
Continue ReadingEd Farhat
Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
June 9th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2003 22 years ago — 78 years old
A professional wrestler and trainer, contributions to the wrestling community included competing in territories like the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and American Wrestling Association (AWA). Farhat gained prominence as a character ‘The Sheik’, known for his unique style and use of foreign objects. Transitioning into training, he influenced several wrestling careers, notably training individuals who would later achieve recognition. He played a significant role in the growth of professional wrestling during his active years.
Continue ReadingBruce Chatwin
British Author and Travel Writer
Born
May 13th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1989 36 years ago — 48 years old
An author and travel writer whose works explored themes of wanderlust and the human experience. Chatwin wrote several books that combined fiction and travelogues, including 'In Patagonia,' a seminal work reflecting on the author's travels in South America. His writing style merged rich imagery with philosophical insights, influencing contemporary travel literature. Other notable works include 'The Songlines' and 'On the Black Hill,' which delve into cultural and environmental themes, drawing on personal experiences during his journeys. Chatwin’s life itself was marked by extensive travel, contributing to the authenticity of his narratives.
Continue ReadingN. T. Rama Rao
Indian actor and politician, Chief Minister
Born
May 28th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1996 29 years ago — 72 years old
An influential figure in Indian cinema and politics, this individual served as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, holding office from 1983 to 1989. As an actor, directed and played major roles in Telugu films, establishing a strong fan base. Contributed to the growth of Telugu cinema, producing over 300 films through various production companies. Transitioned into politics by founding a political party and significantly influenced regional governance and policies.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Gento
Spanish football player and Real Madrid legend
Born
October 21st, 1933 92 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2022 3 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent football player, made a significant mark in the world of football, primarily with Real Madrid. Played as a left winger from the 1950s to the 1960s, achieving remarkable success in the Spanish and European football scenes. Accumulated numerous titles, including six European Cups, leading the team to several domestic championships. Renowned for exceptional speed and skill on the field, becoming an essential part of one of the greatest teams in football history.
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