Jean Behra
Race car driver, 1952 Monaco GP participant
Renowned as a skilled race car driver in the 1950s, participation in the Formula One World Championship marked significant achievements. Competed for several notable teams including Maserati and Ferrari. Achieved numerous podium finishes, showcasing talent in endurance racing. Contributed to the sport through both racing and technical advancements during a transformative era.
Finished third in the 1952 Monaco Grand Prix
Raced for the Maserati team
Participated in the 1955 Mille Miglia
Other People Born on February 16th
John Balance
English singer-songwriter and performer
Born
February 16th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 42 years old
An English singer-songwriter and musician, credited as a founding member of the experimental music group Coil. The group was influential in the avant-garde and industrial music scenes, blending music, multimedia, and performance art. Balance contributed to both vocals and instrumentation, and was instrumental in defining the sound of Coil. Utilized various styles across the discography, with a focus on themes of spirituality, sexuality, and the occult. Released albums such as 'Scatology' and 'Horse Rotorvator'. The work of the group is often categorized as dark ambient and noise music.
Continue ReadingJames Colosimo
Italian-American mob boss at the Chicago Outfit
Born
February 16th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1920 105 years ago — 42 years old
An Italian-American mob boss became a significant figure in organized crime during the early 20th century. Colosimo immigrated to the United States and established himself as a key player in Chicago's underworld. His activities included prostitution, gambling, and mob operations. Colosimo's leadership and connections helped shape the Chicago Outfit, a major crime syndicate. His tenure was marked by expansion and influence in various illegal enterprises until his assassination in 1920.
Continue ReadingMarie Ulven Ringheim
Norwegian singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 16th, 1999 26 years ago
Born in 1999, a Norwegian musician rose to prominence with a unique blend of pop and electronic music. Gained recognition for the project, Girl in Red, capturing a young audience with relatable themes in her lyrics. Released several successful singles, with noteworthy tracks including "I Wanna Be Your Girlfriend" and "We Fell in Love in October." Released the debut album, "if I could make it go quiet," which further established her presence in the music industry.
Continue ReadingArmand Guillaumin
French Impressionist painter
Born
February 16th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1927 98 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1841, a prominent French painter associated with the Impressionist movement. Focused on landscapes and urban scenes, utilized vibrant colors and bold brushwork. Participated in the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874, contributing significantly to the movement's development. His works captured light and atmosphere, influencing many contemporary artists. Later, became known for his powerful depictions of Paris, including the famous scene of the Rue de la Gare.
Continue ReadingKaiketsu Masateru
Sumo wrestler and coach, actively competed
Born
February 16th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 66 years old
Active in professional sumo wrestling from 1965 to 1998, achieved the highest rank of Yokozuna in 1995. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, training future generations in the sport. Contributed to the sumo community and upheld traditional practices.
Continue ReadingKim Jong Il
North Korean Supreme Leader
Born
February 16th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the Supreme Leader of North Korea from 1994 until death in 2011. Assumed leadership following the death of Kim Il-sung. Led North Korea during a period marked by significant economic challenges and international isolation. Initiated nuclear weapons development, contributing to ongoing tensions with global powers. Oversaw the militarization of the country and maintained strict control over North Korean society through a system of propaganda and repression. His rule was characterized by significant human rights abuses and the continued prioritization of the military sector over economic reform.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 1st
Lydia Litvyak
Russian lieutenant and fighter pilot
Born
August 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1943 82 years ago — 21 years old
Served as a fighter pilot during World War II. Achieved the rank of lieutenant in the Soviet Air Force and became one of the nation's first female fighter pilots. Flew numerous combat missions and was credited with destroying enemy aircraft in aerial combat. Demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery while participating in key battles on the Eastern Front.
Continue ReadingAbdalqadir as-Sufi
Islamic scholar and writer on spirituality
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2021 4 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Scotland, this Islamic scholar and writer dedicated a significant portion of life to the study and teaching of Sufism. He became particularly recognized for promoting spiritual philosophy and Islamic teachings globally. He established a number of educational institutions aimed at disseminating Islamic knowledge. As a prolific author, numerous works explored themes of spirituality, metaphysics, and the history of Islam. The contributions included lectures and writings that attracted a diverse audience interested in Islamic spirituality.
Continue ReadingCilla Black
Singer and television presenter
Born
May 27th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent English singer and television presenter, this individual rose to fame in the 1960s with hit songs and a successful television career. Launching a music career with singles such as 'Anyone Who Had a Heart', she became one of the leading female vocalists of the time. Transitioning to television, hosted popular shows like 'Blind Date' and 'Surprise Surprise', which captivated audiences and showcased her versatile talents. Her influence in both music and television spanned several decades, earning accolades for contributions to entertainment.
Continue ReadingJohn Ross
American Tribal Chief and Leader
Born
October 3rd, 1790 235 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1866 159 years ago — 75 years old
Served as a principal chief of the Cherokee Nation from 1828 until 1866. Advocated for the rights of the Cherokee people during a period of forced removals and relocation known as the Trail of Tears. Played a significant role in negotiations with the U.S. government, promoting the interests of the Cherokee Nation. Fought to preserve Cherokee land and culture amid increasing pressures from settlers and state governments.
Continue ReadingJoyce Brabner
Writer and artist; co-created 'Concrete'
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
August 1st, 2024 1 years ago — 72 years old
A writer and artist, contributed significantly to the comic book industry. Collaborated with her husband, illustrating narratives that intertwined personal experiences with social themes. Best recognized for creation and development of 'Concrete', a graphic novel series that gained critical acclaim and explored topics such as identity and humanity. Actively participated in the independent comic scene and worked to support and promote the work of other artists and writers. Engaged in educational outreach and served as a mentor for aspiring creatives.
Continue ReadingLouis VI
French king and monarch during Crusades
Born
December 1st, 1081 944 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1137 888 years ago — 55 years old
Ascended the throne in 1108, ruled as king of France during a time marked by territorial conflicts and the expansion of royal authority. Strengthened the monarchy by consolidating power and defending against feudal lords. Engaged in the First Crusade, supporting the Christian cause in the Holy Land. Implemented administrative reforms enhancing the royal judiciary and financial systems. Fostered relations with the church to bolster the monarchy's influence and authority.
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