Johann Heinrich Zedler
German publisher and encyclopedist
Born
Died
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
Germany
Links & References
Established one of the first comprehensive encyclopedias in the German language, Zedler's Universal-Lexicon, which spanned 68 volumes and was published between 1732 and 1754. The work aimed to cover a wide array of subjects, serving as a valuable reference for the time and making significant contributions to the dissemination of knowledge in the German-speaking world. Zedler also operated a successful printing business in Leipzig, which helped promote literacy and education in the region.
Published Zedler's Universal-Lexicon
Operated a successful printing business
Other People Born on January 7th
Hooley Smith
Canadian ice hockey player, NHL star
Born
January 7th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 60 years old
Played ice hockey primarily as a forward in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the 1920s and 1930s. Started NHL career with the Ottawa Senators and later played for the New York Rangers and the Chicago Black Hawks. Contributed significantly to team successes and built a reputation as a skilled player. Participated in the 1932 NHL All-Star Game, showcasing talent among the league's best. Retired from professional play after a notable career.
Continue ReadingAlbert Bierstadt
American landscape painter, Rocky Mountains
Born
January 7th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
1902 123 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1830, a prominent American painter became recognized for large-scale depictions of the American West, particularly landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. His works featured detailed portrayals of natural grandeur, often infused with dramatic light. Bierstadt traveled extensively throughout the western United States, capturing the beauty of the natural environment. His paintings contributed to the 19th-century American art movement known as the Hudson River School, focusing on Romanticism and the sublime in nature. Prominent exhibitions in leading art institutions propelled his recognition in the art community, and he became an influential figure during his lifetime.
Continue ReadingGerald Durrell
Zookeeper and conservationist, author
Born
January 7th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 70 years old
An Indian-English zookeeper, conservationist, and author founded Durrell Wildlife Park in Jersey, which focuses on conserving endangered species. Authored several books detailing adventures in the natural world, including 'My Family and Other Animals,' which reflects childhood experiences in Greece. Championed wildlife conservation through establishing the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust. Promoted public awareness of wildlife preservation through television documentaries.
Continue ReadingKim Jong-pil
South Korean politician and Prime Minister
Born
January 7th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 92 years old
Served as the 11th Prime Minister of South Korea. Played a significant role in South Korean politics and was a key figure in the military government during the 1970s. Co-founded the Korean Central Intelligence Agency and was influential in shaping South Korea's political landscape in the years following the Korean War. Later engaged in civilian politics, leading various political parties.
Continue ReadingIrrfan Khan
Indian actor in film and television
Born
January 7th, 1967 58 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2020 5 years ago — 53 years old
An accomplished actor, recognized for work in Indian cinema and international films. Gained prominence with performances in critically acclaimed movies. Initially started in television with roles in series during the 1990s, later transitioned to film. Achieved success with roles in films such as 'The Lunchbox' and 'Slumdog Millionaire'. Contributed to various genres, demonstrating versatility in acting.
Continue ReadingCharles Addams
Cartoonist and creator of The Addams Family
Born
January 7th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1988 37 years ago — 76 years old
An American cartoonist gained recognition for creating The Addams Family, a comic strip that originally appeared in The New Yorker. The series featured a macabre, satirical view of an eccentric family and became a cultural icon. The Addams Family was later adapted into a successful television series, a series of films, and various stage productions. The cartoonist's distinctive ghoulish humor and unique art style greatly influenced other creators in the genre of dark comedy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 21st
Juan Almonte
Mexican soldier and diplomat in Empire
Born
May 15th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1869 156 years ago — 65 years old
Son of José María Morelos, served as a regent in the Second Mexican Empire from 1863 to 1864. Actively participated in military operations and diplomatic efforts during his career. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Mexico during the 19th century. Contributed to various diplomatic missions and worked to promote the interests of the Empire both domestically and internationally.
Continue ReadingColin Dexter
English author of detective fiction
Born
September 29th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old
An English author wrote a series of detective novels featuring the character Inspector Morse. The series was adapted into a successful television show that aired from 1987 to 2000. Dexter's literary career began in the 1970s, with the first Morse novel, 'Last Bus to Woodstock', published in 1975. The character was distinguished by his intellect and love for classical music, making the stories unique in the genre. Dexter received multiple awards for his writing, including the prestigious Cartier Diamond Dagger award for lifetime achievement in crime writing.
Continue ReadingJacques-Nicolas Bellin
French cartographer and geographer
Born
1703 322 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1772 253 years ago — 69 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of cartography, produced maps and geographical works that reflected the knowledge of the time. Created the 'Petit Atlas Maritime', a comprehensive atlas of maritime maps featuring detailed charts of coastlines and shipping routes. Bellin's work became a standard reference for navigators and explorers in the 18th century. Served as a cartographer for the French Navy, enhancing the understanding of French territories and trade routes.
Continue ReadingUmar Wirahadikusumah
Indonesian general, 4th Vice President
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2003 22 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a general in the Indonesian National Armed Forces and played a significant role in the country's military and political landscape. Held the position of Vice President of Indonesia from 1993 to 1998, contributing to governmental policies and national defense strategies during a transformative period in the nation's history. Involved in various military operations throughout the Indonesian archipelago and participated in efforts to bolster Indonesia's national security. Transitioned into political roles, advocating for stabilization and reform within the government structure.
Continue ReadingWilbert Awdry
Author of The Railway Series
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1997 28 years ago — 86 years old
An English cleric and author created a beloved children's book series featuring anthropomorphic trains. The Railway Series introduced characters such as Thomas the Tank Engine and provided entertaining stories emphasizing friendship and adventure. The first book was published in 1945, and the series continued with numerous titles, gaining popularity across generations. In addition to writing, the individual contributed to children's literature through storytelling techniques and relatable character development.
Continue ReadingWillem Mengelberg
Conductor with the Concertgebouw Orchestra
Born
1871 154 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1951 74 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1871, a Dutch conductor and composer, led the Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam for over half a century. His tenure brought the orchestra to international prominence, championing the works of Mahler, Brahms, and Wagner. Mengelberg was influential in programming contemporary composers, advancing musical interpretation techniques. His performances were characterized by spontaneity and emotional intensity, which garnered critical acclaim. Despite facing controversies during World War II, Mengelberg continued to shape the musical landscape until retirement in the late 1940s. He passed away in 1951.
Continue Reading