Joshua Reynolds
English painter and founding academic
An influential English painter and academic, recognized for contributions to portraiture and the establishment of the Royal Academy. Focus on the use of light and color defined a unique style within the 18th century. Created iconic portraits for numerous notable figures, capturing both the aristocracy and intellectuals of the time. Published writings on art theory and practice that influenced generations of artists.
Founding member of the Royal Academy of Arts
Painted portraits including 'The Ladies Waldegrave'
Other People Born on July 16th
Guy Béart
Singer-songwriter and lyricist
Born
July 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent figure in French music, recognized for contributions to the chanson genre. Initiated a musical career in the 1950s, often incorporating poetic lyrics reflecting personal and social themes. Gained popularity through hits like 'L'eau vive,' which showcased mastery in songwriting and sensitivity in vocal delivery. Throughout the career, collaborated with various artists and participated in numerous musical festivals, enhancing the French music scene. Continued to write and perform until the end of life, inspiring new generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingDylan Grimes
Australian Rules footballer with Richmond
Born
July 16th, 1991 34 years ago
An Australian Rules footballer, played for the Richmond Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). The player had a significant career, contributing to the team's defensive lineup and showcasing skills as a key defender. Achievements include leading the team to multiple finals series and successfully winning the AFL Premiership in 2017. Earned accolades for exceptional performance in both regular seasons and finals.
Continue ReadingGinger Rogers
Actress and dancer from musical theatre
Born
July 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1995 30 years ago — 83 years old
An American actress, singer, and dancer achieved fame for performances in film and stage. Collaborated with Fred Astaire in numerous musicals, showcasing exceptional dance skills. Starred in iconic films such as 'Swing Time' and 'Top Hat', earning an Academy Award for Best Actress for the film 'Kitty Foyle'. Celebrated for grace and charm on screen, became a prominent figure in the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Continue ReadingJames Maslow
Actor and singer, starred in Big Time Rush
Born
July 16th, 1990 35 years ago
An American actor, singer, and dancer. Became prominent as a member of the boy band Big Time Rush, which starred in the Nickelodeon series of the same name. The group released several albums and toured extensively. Pursued a solo music career following the band’s hiatus, releasing singles and collaborating with other artists. In addition to music, appeared on reality television, participating in competition shows and guest-starring on various series. Notable for versatility in entertainment, combining acting and musical talents throughout the career.
Continue ReadingLars Lagerbäck
Football manager, UEFA Euro 200 Sweden
Born
July 16th, 1948 77 years ago
A football manager and former player, contributed significantly to the sport. Managed the Swedish national team, guiding them to the UEFA Euro 2000 and 2004 tournaments. Later served as head coach for the Nigerian national team during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Also held managerial roles at various club levels across Sweden and Norway.
Continue ReadingSafiya Nygaard
YouTuber with a focus on beauty content
Born
July 16th, 1992 33 years ago
A YouTuber gained recognition for innovative beauty videos and unique fashion experiments. Created content that combined humor and detailed product reviews, leading to a substantial following. Developed a distinct brand through engaging with viewers on various beauty topics, including makeup transformations and style challenges. Collaborated with numerous brands and contributed to trends within the beauty community. Transitioned into vlogging, sharing insights into personal life and experiences.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 23rd
Ahmed Zaki Yamani
Saudi Arabian politician and oil minister
Born
June 30th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2021 4 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the Minister of Oil and Mineral Resources for Saudi Arabia from 1962 to 1986. Played a key role in OPEC, particularly during the 1973 oil crisis, which led to significant changes in the global oil supply. Oversaw the nationalization of the Saudi oil industry and participated in negotiations that affected oil production and pricing worldwide. After leaving office, continued to influence energy policy and served as an advisor in various capacities.
Continue ReadingEmperor Zhezong of Song
Emperor of the Song dynasty
Born
1076 950 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1100 925 years ago — 24 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1085, ruling during a time of political instability and strife. Implements reforms to counteract corruption within the government and attempts to strengthen the military. Faces challenges from the Jurchen tribes, leading to pivotal conflicts that greatly affected the Song dynasty’s territory. His reign witnessed cultural advancements, particularly in literature and art, contributing to the flourishing of Song culture. Died in 1100, leaving a complex legacy.
Continue ReadingFranciscus Vieta
French mathematician and algebra pioneer
Born
1540 486 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1603 422 years ago — 63 years old
A significant figure in the development of algebra, contributions to the field included the introduction of letters to represent known and unknown quantities in equations. Vieta's formulas provided connections between coefficients and roots of polynomials. His work laid groundwork for modern algebraic notation. Vieta published several influential works, among them 'In Artem Analyticam Isagoge'. His techniques were key in moving from rhetorical algebra to symbolic algebra.
Continue ReadingHorst Wessel
SA officer and song writer
Born
1907 119 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1930 95 years ago — 23 years old
Served as a prominent member of the Sturmabteilung, the paramilitary wing of the National Socialist German Workers' Party. Wessel became a symbolic figure within the organization after being killed in 1930. His life and death were utilized for propaganda purposes by the Nazi regime, leading to the creation of the song 'Die Fahne hoch', which became an anthem for the party. His story and the events surrounding his death contributed to the rising cult of personality around Nazi leaders during the early years of their rule.
Continue ReadingWilliam Raggio
American lawyer and state senator
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician in Nevada, played a significant role in state legislation during tenure as a state senator from 1972 to 2012. Raggio served as the Senate Minority Leader and was involved in various legislative initiatives, including education reform and tax legislation. His legal career spanned several decades, during which he became known for his expertise in law and public policy. Raggio's influence in Nevada politics persisted through his long service and leadership roles within the state government.
Continue ReadingNirmala Srivastava
Indian religious leader, Sahaja Yoga founder
Born
March 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2011 14 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent Indian religious leader established Sahaja Yoga, a spiritual movement aimed at self-realization and inner peace. This practice emphasizes the significance of meditation and the awakening of the dormant energy within individuals. Founded in 1970, the movement gained international recognition and attracted followers worldwide. Conducted numerous public programs and seminars to spread teachings and principles, focusing on the transformative effects of self-awareness. Engaged in social and charitable activities, promoting values of love, compassion, and brotherhood among humanity. Passed away in 2011, leaving a lasting legacy in spiritual communities.
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