John Bosco
Italian priest and educator, founder of the Salesians
A priest and educator dedicated to the welfare of youth, established the Salesian Society to provide education and spiritual guidance. Focused on the disadvantaged, advocated for preventive education emphasizing reason, religion, and loving-kindness as a framework for teaching. Significant contributions to church and education, influencing modern pedagogical methods.
Founded the Salesian Society
Established several schools and orphanages
Other People Born on August 16th
Ryan Kerrigan
American football linebacker, Pro Bowl selection
Born
August 16th, 1988 37 years ago
Played as an outside linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the Washington Football Team and the Philadelphia Eagles. Achieved a standout collegiate career at Purdue University, where set the school record for career sacks. Drafted in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft by Washington. Selected to the Pro Bowl multiple times during tenure with the team, recognized for consistent performance and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Retired after the 2021 NFL season.
Continue ReadingGodfrey Oboabona
Nigerian Footballer and Defender
Born
August 16th, 1990 35 years ago
A Nigerian footballer played as a defender with a career primarily in domestic and international competitions. Represented Sunshine Stars in Nigeria's Premier League and later transferred to clubs overseas. Contributed significantly to the Nigerian national team, including participation in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Demonstrated solid defensive skills and versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingKaren Chen
Figure skater and U.S. champion
Born
August 16th, 1999 26 years ago
Competed in figure skating, earning recognition in national and international competitions. Achieved prominence by winning the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in 2017. Represented the United States at the World Figure Skating Championships and the Olympic Games, contributing to the sport through individual competitions and performances. Known for grace and technical proficiency on the ice, specializing in singles events.
Continue ReadingMoussa Sissoko
French footballer, Premier League midfielder
Born
August 16th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional footballer, primarily played as a midfielder. Had significant stints with various clubs, including Toulouse and Newcastle United in the Premier League. Also represented Tottenham Hotspur, contributing to the team's runner-up finish in the UEFA Champions League in 2019. Earned caps for the French national team, participating in major tournaments such as UEFA Euro 2016 and the FIFA World Cup 2018, where France secured the championship title.
Continue ReadingCarey Price
Ice hockey player and Vezina Trophy winner
Born
August 16th, 1987 38 years ago
This ice hockey player achieved prominence as a goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted fifth overall in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, this player developed into one of the league's elite goaltenders. An outstanding performance during the 2014 Sochi Olympics contributed to the team's gold medal victory. In 2015, this player won the Vezina Trophy, awarded to the league's best goaltender, along with the Hart Trophy for being the league’s Most Valuable Player. This player's leadership and contributions to the Canadiens made a significant impact on the team’s success and fan base. Injuries plagued the latter part of his career, but this player remains a respected figure in the sport.
Continue ReadingIsmaïl Aissati
Moroccan footballer and international player
Born
August 16th, 1988 37 years ago
Aissati began professional career at Ajax, making his debut for the club in 2006. After his time in the Netherlands, he played for various clubs in Europe and the Middle East, including Dutch side Vitesse and Moroccan club RS Berkane. Aissati represented the Moroccan national team at various youth levels before earning caps for the senior team. He participated in the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations and contributed to the team's efforts during international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 31st
Cilibi Moise
Journalist and Author from Moldova
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1870 155 years ago — 58 years old
Contributed significantly to Moldavian and Romanian journalism during the 19th century. Engaged in writing articles that addressed social and political issues of the time, promoting literary and cultural advancements. Authored works that explored themes of nationalism, identity, and societal reform. Played a role in the development of modern Romanian literature through innovative storytelling and critical thinking.
Continue ReadingJost Bürgi
Clockmaker and mathematician, astronomical tables
Born
February 28th, 1552 473 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1632 393 years ago — 79 years old
A Swiss clockmaker and mathematician contributed significantly to the development of precision timekeeping and astronomical instruments. Bürgi developed mathematically sophisticated methods for calculating astronomical positions, leading to the creation of comprehensive astronomical tables. His work in horology, especially with the precision of mechanical clocks, was pivotal in the transition to modern timekeeping. Bürgi also introduced innovative techniques for calculating logarithms, which were not widely adopted until later. He served at the court of the Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II in Prague, where he further advanced the field of mathematics and astronomy.
Continue Reading11th Dalai Lama
Tibetan spiritual leader and reformer
Born
November 1st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1856 169 years ago — 17 years old
Served as the spiritual leader of Tibet from 1838 until death in 1856. Held significant influence over Tibetan Buddhism and governance during a period of cultural and political change. Implemented various governmental reforms aimed at modernizing the administration. Promoted education and cultural preservation in Tibet, fostering a dialogue between traditional practices and contemporary needs.
Continue ReadingCharles Spurgeon
Pastor and author of numerous sermons
Born
June 19th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1892 133 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent English pastor and author, known for leadership at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London. Delivered thousands of sermons, which were compiled into numerous volumes, making significant theological contributions. Established a charitable organization, the Stockwell Orphanage, to aid orphans and the needy. Published works that emphasized practical Christianity and the importance of personal faith.
Continue ReadingRagnar Frisch
Economist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
March 3rd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1973 52 years ago — 77 years old
An economist and academic, contributed to the field of econometrics, which combines economic theory with statistical methods. Played a key role in the development of modern economic analysis. As a co-recipient of the first Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1969, enriched the understanding of economics through innovative methodologies. Also served as the first president of the Econometric Society and was instrumental in establishing the field as a formal discipline in economics.
Continue ReadingManuel Alberti
Argentinian priest and journalist
Born
May 28th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1811 214 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent figure in early 19th century Argentina who served as a priest and contributed to journalism. Played a vital role in the religious and political discourse of the time. Engaged in debates on freedom and justice, influencing public opinion. Involved in the struggle for national independence from colonial rule and supported various Enlightenment ideals. Through writings and sermons, provided insight into the societal issues of the era. Was recognized for contributions to the press and religious life in Argentina until death in 1811.
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