Leopold II of Belgium

Belgian King and Congo Free State founder

Leopold II of Belgium - Belgian King and Congo Free State founder
Born

April 9th, 1835
189 years ago

Died

December 17th, 1909
115 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Belgium

Links & References

Reigned as King of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909. Established the Congo Free State as a personal possession, which was marked by extensive exploitation of natural resources and forced labor. Under his rule, significant economic development occurred in the region, but at a devastating cost to the local population.

Created the Congo Free State in 1885

Exploited rubber and ivory resources

Facilitated infrastructure projects in Congo

Other People Born on April 9th

Johannes Bobrowski

German poet and songwriter
Born
April 9th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1965 59 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1917 in Germany, a significant figure in German literature, focusing on themes related to the East Prussian landscape and history. Bobrowski served in the German army during World War II, where experiences influenced his later work. After the war, Bobrowski became involved in literature, contributing to the literary scene in East Germany. His poetry often reflected melancholic and nostalgic tones, exploring complex relationships with the past. Bobrowski published several collections, and his works were characterized by rich imagery and lyrical quality. He passed away in 1965, leaving behind a notable legacy in German poetry.

Continue Reading

Paolo Tosti

Composer and educator of vocal music
Born
April 9th, 1846 178 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Italy and later settling in England, a prominent composer and educator contributed significantly to the realm of vocal music. Studied at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan and gained recognition for compositions that skillfully blended Italian lyrical traditions with English influences. Tosti served as the music teacher to the aristocracy, particularly in the late 19th to early 20th centuries. The composer produced numerous art songs, many of which have become staples in classical vocal repertoires. His works were often performed by notable singers and remained popular throughout various music festivals. His association with prestigious institutions solidified his role as a key figure in music education.

Continue Reading

Carlos Hernández

Costa Rican footballer and playmaker
Born
April 9th, 1982 42 years ago

Born in Costa Rica, played professional football primarily as an attacking midfielder. Started career with Saprissa, contributing to multiple national league titles. Gained recognition for performances in international competitions, particularly the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Moved to play in various leagues including those in the US and the Asian leagues. Represented the Costa Rican national team in several tournaments, further establishing a reputation in Central American football.

Continue Reading

Gerry Fitt

Northern Irish politician and life peer
Born
April 9th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a Labour MP for Belfast West from 1966 to 1970. Played a role in advocating for civil rights during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Later became a member of the House of Lords, contributing to discussions on Northern Ireland and other issues. In 1973, co-founded the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), aiming to provide a peaceful solution to the political conflict. Worked as an advocate for social change and was involved in various political dialogues throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Jazmine Sullivan

American singer-songwriter with 'Heaux Tales'
Born
April 9th, 1987 37 years ago

Singer-songwriter achieved recognition with the debut album 'Fearless' in 2008. The album received critical acclaim and earned multiple Grammy nominations. Follow-up albums, including 'Love Me Back' and 'Heaux Tales', showcased vocal prowess and songwriting skills. Sullivan's music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and empowerment. The artist was awarded a Grammy for Best R&B Performance for 'Pick Up Your Feelings'. Her powerful voice and emotional delivery have positioned her as a prominent figure in contemporary R&B.

Continue Reading

Eadweard Muybridge

Photographer, pioneer of motion pictures
Born
April 9th, 1830 194 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 74 years old

Eadweard Muybridge was an English photographer and cinematographer who significantly contributed to the development of motion pictures. Born in 1830, he is known for creating a series of photographs that depicted motion in a groundbreaking way. His work with sequential time-lapse photography laid the foundation for the future of cinema. Muybridge's most notable project involved capturing the movement of a galloping horse, using a set of cameras triggered by tripwires. This work resulted in the creation of 'The Horse in Motion' series in 1878, which demonstrated how a horse's legs move at high speed. Additionally, Muybridge developed the zoopraxiscope, an early device for projecting motion pictures.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 17th

José María Iglesias

Mexican politician and interim President
Born
January 25th, 1823 202 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1891 133 years ago — 68 years old

Served as an interim president of Mexico during a turbulent period in the late 19th century. His presidency was marked by political instability and conflict, particularly during the Reform War and the French intervention. He advocated for liberal reforms and worked towards establishing a more centralized government. Previously held various political positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs. Following the chaotic political environment, he became involved in significant controversies regarding power and governance.

Continue Reading

Larry Sherry

Baseball player and coach, World Series champion
Born
July 25th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2006 18 years ago — 71 years old

A professional baseball player and coach, played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Made significant contributions to the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1959 to 1962. Played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' 1963 World Series victory, earning the World Series Most Valuable Player award. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, applying experience and knowledge of the game to help develop players.

Continue Reading

Thomas Mitchell

Actor, singer, screenwriter; Stagecoach
Born
July 11th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1962 62 years ago — 70 years old

An American actor, singer, and screenwriter, recognized for a prolific career in film, television, and theater. Appeared in the 1939 Western film 'Stagecoach,' playing the character Doc Boone, which became a significant part of cinematic history. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'The Heirs of Rassendyll' in 1931. His work in multiple genres earned acclaim and led to enduring popularity.

Continue Reading

Otto Graham

American football player and coach
Born
December 6th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2003 21 years ago — 82 years old

An American football player and coach excelled as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the Cleveland Browns from 1946 to 1955, leading the team to ten championship games and winning seven titles. After retirement, transitioned to coaching, serving as head coach for the Browns and achieving notable success. Graham's play was characterized by strong leadership and strategic understanding of the game.

Continue Reading

Bernardus Johannes Alfrink

Dutch cardinal and church leader
Born
July 5th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1987 37 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church, contributing significantly to church matters in the Netherlands. Played a key role in the Second Vatican Council, advocating for reforms and modernization within the church. Actively worked on ecumenical dialogue, fostering relations between different Christian denominations. Appointed as Archbishop of Utrecht, overseeing the Catholic community in the Netherlands, and engaging in various national discussions concerning social and moral issues.

Continue Reading

Frank Pastore

Baseball player and radio host
Born
August 21st, 1957 67 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 55 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1979 to 1986, primarily with the Cincinnati Reds. Recorded a career-high 14 wins in the 1980 season and contributed to the team's success by appearing in multiple games during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Transitioned to a career in radio after retirement, hosting a talk show on Christian radio, where discussions centered on faith, politics, and current events.

Continue Reading