Kofi Awoonor

Ghanaian author and poet, celebrated for 'This Earth, My Brother'

Kofi Awoonor - Ghanaian author and poet, celebrated for 'This Earth, My Brother'
Born

1935
90 years ago

Died

September 21st, 2013
11 years ago — 78 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Ghana

Links & References

An author, poet, and diplomat from Ghana, contributions include poetry and prose that reflect the culture and struggles of Ghana. Best recognized for the collection 'This Earth, My Brother,' which showcases themes of identity, belonging, and the essence of African life. Served as a diplomat and held various roles including being a member of Ghana's National Commission on Culture. Wrote extensively about the African experience and the impact of colonialism and independence on the continent. The literary career spanned several decades, significantly contributing to African literature and poetry.

Published 'This Earth, My Brother'

Served as Ghana's Ambassador to Brazil

Other People Who Died on September 21st

Jan Pieterszoon Coen

Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies
Born
January 8th, 1587 438 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1629 395 years ago — 42 years old

Served as the Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies. Established Batavia as the capital of the Dutch colonial empire in Asia. Implemented policies that expanded Dutch dominance in spice trade and pushed out Portuguese and English interests in the region.

Continue Reading

Lembitu

Estonian king and military leader
Died
September 21st, 1217 807 years ago — None years old

Served as a king and military leader in Estonia during the early 13th century, leading resistance against foreign invasions. Played a crucial role in the Estonian struggle for independence during the Northern Crusades. Engaged in battles against the Livonian Order and other external forces attempting to conquer the region. Established leadership over Estonian tribes and forged alliances to resist encroachments on Estonian territory.

Continue Reading

Gerolamo Cardano

Italian mathematician and physician
Born
September 24th, 1501 523 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1576 448 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Italy in 1501, made significant contributions to mathematics and medicine. Authored the influential work 'Ars Magna,' which laid the groundwork for modern algebra. Practiced medicine in Milan and was involved in astrology. Cardano also developed one of the first systematic approaches to probability. His interdisciplinary interests included mechanics and physics, leading to the invention of the Cardan joint in engineering. Cardano's work blends scientific inquiry with philosophical musings.

Continue Reading

Caldwell Jones

Basketball player and coach
Born
August 4th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2014 10 years ago — 64 years old

Played professional basketball in the NBA from 1973 to 1988. Served as a center for teams including the New Orleans Jazz, Philadelphia 76ers, and the San Antonio Spurs. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading various teams in different leagues. Contributed to the development of basketball through both playing and coaching roles.

Continue Reading

Walewska Oliveira

Brazilian volleyball player, Olympic champion
Born
1979 46 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2023 1 years ago — 44 years old

A professional volleyball player from Brazil, achieved significant success in international competitions. Played as a middle blocker and was part of the Brazilian national team that won the gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Contributed to the team’s success in various championships, showcasing skills and athleticism throughout the career. Also played at the club level in leagues across Brazil and Europe, further establishing a legacy in the sport before passing away in 2023.

Continue Reading

Haakon VII of Norway

Norwegian King during World War II
Born
August 3rd, 1872 152 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1957 67 years ago — 85 years old

Ascended the throne in 1905 after Norway's independence from Sweden. Led Norway as a constitutional monarch during World War II, providing a symbol of resistance against Nazi occupation. Worked to maintain Norway's sovereignty and unity, often collaborating with exiled government officials. After the war, played a role in the restoration of the monarchy's reputation and helped Norway's integration into post-war Europe.

Continue Reading