Percy Qoboza
South African journalist and author
Born
1938
88 years ago
Died
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
South Africa
Links & References
Worked as a prominent journalist and editor in South Africa during the apartheid era. Served as the editor of The World and later The Sunday Post, becoming crucial in exposing social injustices. Wrote extensively about the struggles faced by black South Africans and advocated for democracy and equality. Received numerous awards for journalism, including the prestigious National Press Club's Journalist of the Year award in 1974. Continued to write after his exile and became a significant figure in South Africa’s media landscape until his death.
Served as editor of The World newspaper
Advocated for press freedom during apartheid
Received National Press Club's Journalist of the Year award in 1974
Other People Who Died on January 17th
Birju Maharaj
Dancer and choreographer of Kathak
Born
February 4th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2022 4 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent figure in the classical dance form of Kathak, contributed significantly to the art of Indian dance. Born into a family of dancers, trained under the guidance of his grandfather. Created innovative choreography that blended traditional and contemporary styles. Established a dance school to teach and preserve Kathak. Received several accolades for contributions to the cultural landscape, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Padma Vibhushan.
Continue ReadingJyoti Basu
Indian politician and Chief Minister
Born
July 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2010 16 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 9th Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1977 to 2000. Played a significant role in the Indian political landscape, particularly as a leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Led a government that was one of the longest-serving democratically elected communist governments in the world. Instrumental in promoting social welfare programs and agrarian reforms in the state, impacting the lives of many citizens. Resigned from the role in 2000 and became an influential figure in Indian politics until his death in 2010.
Continue ReadingHermann Schlegel
Ornithologist and herpetologist
Born
June 10th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1884 142 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed to the fields of ornithology and herpetology in the 19th century. Mainly focused on the study of birds and reptiles, and published significant works on their classification and biology. Served as a curator at the Natural History Museum in Berlin, where substantial collections were researched and documented. Notable for contributions to the understanding of avian and reptilian species which influenced future studies in these areas.
Continue ReadingZhao Ziyang
Chinese politician and premier
Born
October 17th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2005 21 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 3rd Premier of the People's Republic of China from 1980 to 1987. Played a significant role in economic reforms and opening up China's economy in the 1980s. Advocated for more political openness and was involved in the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989, which led to his removal from power and subsequent house arrest until his death in 2005.
Continue ReadingFaten Hamama
Egyptian actress and producer
Born
May 27th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2015 11 years ago — 83 years old
Renowned for significant contributions to Egyptian cinema, a career spanned over six decades. Gained success in the golden age of Egyptian movies and collaborated with notable directors and actors. Featured in films such as "The Dancer and the Police" and "The Assassin". Transitioned into production, helping shape the industry in Egypt. Played a crucial role in the cultural landscape of the nation through film and television.
Continue ReadingMatthäus Daniel Pöppelmann
German architect known for Zwinger Palace
Born
May 3rd, 1662 363 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1737 289 years ago — 74 years old
An accomplished architect, primarily active in the early 18th century, contributed significantly to the Baroque architectural landscape in Germany. Most recognized for the Zwinger Palace in Dresden, this structure exemplifies the grandeur of Baroque design. Pöppelmann also played a prominent role in the construction of other notable buildings in Dresden, incorporating intricate designs and elaborate ornamentation. His works reflect the artistic trends of the time, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Continue Reading