Jan van Riebeeck
Dutch politician, founder of Cape Town
Born
April 21st, 1619
406 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1677
348 years ago — 57 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Netherlands
Links & References
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
Percy Williams Bridgman
A prominent American physicist and academic, he contributed significantly to experimental physics and high-pressure research. Bridgman developed methods to achieve extreme pressures and studied their effects on various materials. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1946 for his work on the properties of matter under high pressures, he became a professor at Harvard University where he mentored future scientists. His research advanced the understanding of physical phenomena in solid state physics.
Continue ReadingLuis Saslavsky
A prominent figure in Argentine cinema, this individual directed a series of successful films during the mid-20th century. The career spanned various roles including direction, production, and screenwriting. Contributions included working in the genres of drama and comedy, with a focus on the Argentine culture. Several films garnered attention and recognition, contributing to the development of the national film industry.
Continue ReadingLudovico Carracci
Born in Bologna in 1555, this artist became a prominent figure in the Baroque movement. Training alongside his family, he developed a distinct style that blended realism with classical influences. Carracci established the Accademia degli Incamminati, a school that trained many successful artists. His works often focused on religious themes, featuring dynamic compositions and vivid colors. His mural paintings, particularly in the Palazzo Farnese in Rome, showcase his mastery in fresco techniques. Carracci's ability to capture human emotion and movement contributed significantly to the evolution of Baroque painting.
Continue ReadingJoseph Vaz
Born in India, dedicated life to missionary work in Sri Lanka during the late 17th century. Contributed significantly to the Catholic Church in the region amidst challenging circumstances. Alongside establishing numerous missions, provided spiritual guidance to local communities. Canonized in 2015, recognized as a symbol of faith and resilience.
Continue ReadingMary Rogers Miller
Focused on education and literature, contributed to the field through writings and teaching. Played a pivotal role in developing educational content and methodologies that influenced progressive education in the United States. Wrote several books aimed at improving literacy and understanding in students, emphasizing the importance of education in personal and social development.
Continue ReadingIsco
A professional footballer, he played as a midfielder for several clubs and the Spanish national team. Starting his career at Valencia, he later moved to Malaga, where notable performances led to a transfer to Real Madrid in 2013. While at Real Madrid, achieved significant success, including four UEFA Champions League titles. Represented Spain at various youth levels and the senior national team during major tournaments.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 18th
Laurent-Désiré Kabila
Assumed the presidency of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1997 after leading a rebellion against long-time dictator Mobutu Sese Seko. Implemented a series of reforms aimed at stabilizing the country, which was plagued by decades of corruption and mismanagement. Faced significant challenges, including ongoing civil conflict that erupted in 1998, primarily involving various rebel groups and foreign intervention. Ended his leadership violently when assassinated in 2001.
Continue ReadingAntoine César Becquerel
A physicist and academic contributed significantly to the study of radioactivity. Conducted pioneering experiments on the electromagnetic spectrum and discovered the phenomenon of phosphorescence in uranium salts. His work laid the foundational principles for future research in radioactivity and influenced scientists such as Marie Curie. Also served in various educational and research roles, promoting scientific inquiry.
Continue ReadingTamar of Georgia
Ruled as the first female monarch of the Kingdom of Georgia from 1184 until 1213. Oversaw a significant period of prosperity and territorial expansion. Fostered a golden age in Georgia marked by cultural flourishing, political stability, and military successes. Enhanced diplomatic relations with neighboring states and strengthened the monarchy's authority. Achieved victories in the wars against the Saljuks and the Khwarezmid Empire.
Continue ReadingGrigore Vieru
A prominent figure in Romanian poetry, focused on themes of love, nature, and childhood. Authored numerous poems and children's books that resonated with both young and adult audiences. Gained recognition for the ability to blend lyrical elegance with deep emotions. Had a significant influence on Romanian literature and culture, promoting the importance of language and creativity.
Continue ReadingKathryn Abbe
Active primarily in the mid-20th century, a photographer and author focused on capturing everyday life through the lens. Work included a significant series of photobooks that documented both urban and rural environments. Collaborated with other artists and contributed to various publications. Explored themes related to communities, nature, and the human experience.
Continue ReadingBaldassare Verazzi
An Italian painter became renowned for works that often depicted historical themes and religious subjects. Active during the 19th century, the artist contributed to various art movements, showcasing a blend of romantic style and academic principles. His artworks were characterized by emotive figures and dramatic lighting, which drew inspiration from classical techniques. Various exhibitions displayed his work, earning recognition in art circles. His paintings reflect the socio-political environment of the time, providing a visual narrative that resonates with historical events and religious stories.
Continue Reading