Johannes Steinhoff
German general and fighter pilot

Born
September 15th, 1913
112 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1994
31 years ago — 80 years old
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
Germany
Links & References
A distinguished German general and pilot, contributed significantly during World War II as a Luftwaffe fighter pilot. Achieved high honors and recognition for aerial combat success, becoming one of the top aces of the conflict. After the war, played a key role in the post-war defense landscape of Germany, serving as a general in the Luftwaffe of the Bundeswehr. Involved in the re-establishment of the German Air Force, focusing on modernizing its structure and capabilities. Advocated for integrated NATO operations and flew multiple types of aircraft throughout his career, earning accolades for leadership and expertise.
Aerial combat achievements during WWII
Top ace in the Luftwaffe
Other People Born on September 15th
Wayne Ferreira
A former professional tennis player from South Africa, achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of World No. 10. Competed on the ATP Tour from the early 1990s until the mid-2000s, participating in all four Grand Slam tournaments. Reached the quarterfinals of Wimbledon in 1992 and the semifinals of the US Open in 1995. Also experienced success in doubles, securing four ATP Tour titles. Accumulated over 400 career match wins.
Continue ReadingJean Sylvain Bailly
An influential figure in 18th-century France, played a key role in the French Revolution. Served as the first Mayor of Paris from 1789 to 1791, overseeing significant events during a critical time in French history. Contributed to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of the moons of Jupiter and the examination of comets. Also engaged in mathematics and was involved with the Academy of Sciences. His political career ended with arrest during the Reign of Terror, leading to execution in 1793.
Continue ReadingSigne Toly Anderson
A prominent American singer, a founding member of the rock band Jefferson Airplane, contributed significantly to the psychedelic rock scene in the 1960s. Anderson provided lead vocals on the band's debut album, 'Takes Off,' which featured the hit single 'It's No Secret.' Anderson's unique vocal style helped shape the early sound of the band, which became a significant influence on the rock genre. After her departure from Jefferson Airplane in 1966, she pursued a solo career and continued to perform with various groups. Anderson's contributions to music continued until her later years, and she remained a figure in the rock community until her passing.
Continue ReadingDonald Bailey
An English engineer specialized in bridge design. Developed the Bailey bridge during World War II, which provided rapid and efficient solutions for military logistics. The design facilitated troop movements and the delivery of supplies across difficult terrains. Subsequently, the Bailey bridge became widely used in civilian applications, showcasing versatility in various engineering contexts. The bridge's modular design allowed for quick assembly and disassembly, becoming critical in wartime and disaster relief scenarios.
Continue ReadingMike Procter
Born in South Africa in 1946, a cricketer emerged as a prominent fast bowler and all-rounder during the 1960s and 1970s. Played for the national team and was notable in the gallery of cricket history. Following a successful playing career, transitioned into coaching and officiating, contributing to international cricket. Played a significant role in World Series Cricket.
Continue ReadingChimamanda Ngozi Adichie
An acclaimed author, this individual gained recognition for contributions to literature through novels, essays, and short stories that explore themes of identity, feminism, and post-colonialism. Major works include 'Half of a Yellow Sun', which is set against the backdrop of the Nigerian Civil War, and 'Americanah', which deals with issues of race and belonging in the United States and Nigeria. The individual also delivered a widely viewed TED Talk titled 'We Should All Be Feminists', which inspired discussions on gender inequality and was adapted into a book of the same name.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
Hasse Jeppson
A professional footballer, represented Sweden at the international level. Played as a forward and had a significant career with several clubs, including Malmö FF. Made notable contributions to the club's successes during the 1940s and 1950s. Participated in the 1950 FIFA World Cup held in Brazil while representing the national team. Also had impactful performances in domestic leagues throughout the career.
Continue ReadingFrederick Banting
A Canadian physician and academic contributed significantly to the medical field. Developed insulin for diabetes treatment alongside Charles Best. Conducted key research at the University of Toronto, which led to the discovery of insulin in 1921. This breakthrough transformed diabetes management and saved countless lives.
Continue ReadingEugène de Beauharnais
A French general, served as a prominent military leader during the Napoleonic Wars. Became the Governor of Italy, strategically overseeing the region for the French Empire. Notable for the Battle of Borodino, where commanded troops effectively against Russian forces. Played a significant role in various campaigns, demonstrating strong leadership skills on the battlefield. After Napoleon's fall, held various roles within the newly established French government.
Continue ReadingGaius Caesar
Born in 20 BC, Gaius Caesar served as a Roman consul and was the grandson of the first Roman emperor, Augustus. Gaius was raised in the imperial family and received a comprehensive education, preparing him for a life in politics. He was appointed consul in AD 1 and became the youngest person to hold this position. His reign was marked by attempts to solidify his family's power. Gaius' relationship with the Roman military was significant as he sought to garner loyalty among the legions leading to a brief period of popularity. However, his rule became controversial due to his autocratic tendencies and ambitious military campaigns. Gaius' life ended prematurely in 4 AD when he died under unclear circumstances, and he left behind a legacy intertwined with the Julio-Claudian dynasty.
Continue ReadingAhmad ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi
Led the Adal Sultanate in military campaigns against the Ethiopian Empire during the 16th century. Engaged in pivotal battles such as the Battle of Lake Tana and the Battle of Marda, contributing to significant territorial changes. Utilized innovative tactics and alliances to expand influence in the region. His campaigns marked a critical point in the history of the Horn of Africa.
Continue ReadingBaruch Spinoza
A prominent 17th-century philosopher and scholar, contributed significantly to the fields of metaphysics, ethics, and political philosophy. Spinoza advocated for rationalism and laid the groundwork for the modern understanding of liberty and democracy. His seminal works include 'Ethics', in which he formulated his views on the nature of reality, God, and human freedom, and 'Theological-Political Treatise', which examined the relationship between religion and state. His ideas about the separation of church and state and the nature of truth challenged contemporary beliefs and political structures.
Continue Reading