Richard von Weizsäcker

German politician and former President

Richard von Weizsäcker - German politician and former President
Born

April 15th, 1920
105 years ago

Died

January 31st, 2015
10 years ago — 94 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Germany

Links & References

Served as the 6th President of Germany from 1984 to 1994. Played a significant role in the reunification of Germany and in promoting democracy in Eastern Europe following the fall of the Berlin Wall. Before presidency, held various positions including member of the Bundestag and the governing mayor of West Berlin from 1981 to 1984. Participated in the German Army during World War II and later became a lawyer and politician.

Served as President of Germany

Promoted German reunification

Influenced post-war politics in Germany

Other People Born on April 15th

Ramón Iribarren

Civil engineer and architect
Born
April 15th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 67 years old

Birth occurred on April 15, 1900. Specialized in civil engineering and architecture, contributing significantly to infrastructure development in Spain. Played a crucial role in the design and construction of notable projects, enhancing urban landscapes. Worked on various significant works that shaped modern engineering practices in the country.

Continue Reading

Frankie Poullain

Scottish bass player and songwriter
Born
April 15th, 1967 58 years ago

A Scottish musician gained recognition as the bass player for the rock band The Darkness. Contributed to the band's distinctive sound characterized by a blend of glam rock and heavy metal elements. Participated in the band's successful debut album, 'Permission to Land', which achieved commercial success and earned multiple awards. Known for energetic live performances and vibrant stage presence. The band gained a significant following in the early 2000s.

Continue Reading

Suleiman II

Ottoman Sultan and military leader
Born
April 15th, 1642 383 years ago
Died
1691 334 years ago — 49 years old

Suleiman II ascended to the Ottoman throne in 1687 and ruled until 1691. His reign was marked by military campaigns and attempts to recover lost territories. Suleiman II played a crucial role in the Ottoman Empire's military organization and governance. He was involved in the wars against Austria and Poland, which were significant during this period. Despite facing internal challenges, he aimed to stabilize the empire and reinforce its power in Europe during a time of shifting alliances and conflicts.

Continue Reading

Dudu Cearense

Footballer and 2004 Copa do Brasil winner
Born
April 15th, 1983 42 years ago

Professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Started career at Atlético Mineiro before moving to play for several clubs, including Lyon and Internacional. Achieved notable successes in domestic leagues and international competitions. Gained recognition for technical skill and tactical awareness on the field. Played a significant role in winning the 2004 Copa do Brasil with Atlético Mineiro, highlighting contributions to both club and national level football.

Continue Reading

Robert Mills

Physicist known for gauge theory
Born
April 15th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1999 25 years ago — 72 years old

Contributions to theoretical physics included the development of gauge theory, which plays a crucial role in the standard model of particle physics. Served as a professor at several esteemed institutions, including the University of Maryland. Offered significant insights into quantum field theory and its implications for particle interactions. Authored numerous influential papers and collaborated with leading physicists, advancing the understanding of symmetries in particle physics.

Continue Reading

Clark McConachy

New Zealand Snooker Player Champion
Born
April 15th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 85 years old

Born in New Zealand in 1895, McConachy emerged as a prominent figure in the world of snooker. Throughout his career, he achieved significant recognition and accomplishments that highlighted his skill and dedication to the sport. He participated in various national and international tournaments, showcasing his talent on the snooker table. His contributions to the game during the early 20th century helped in popularizing snooker in New Zealand.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 31st

Giant Baba

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
January 23rd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1999 26 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in professional wrestling, made significant contributions as a wrestler and trainer. Co-founded All Japan Pro Wrestling in 1972, which became a paramount promotion in the industry. Held the World Heavyweight Championship multiple times and was recognized for a unique style that blended traditional Japanese wrestling with elements of American wrestling. Transitioned from an active competitor to a promoter role, guiding the careers of many future wrestling stars. His legacy continues through the promotion and his influence on the global wrestling landscape.

Continue Reading

Alexander Ypsilantis

Greek general and revolutionary leader
Born
1792 233 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1828 197 years ago — 36 years old

Served as a key figure in the Greek War of Independence against Ottoman rule. Led the Filiki Eteria, a secret organization that aimed for the liberation of Greece. In 1821, took command of Greek forces in the campaign to liberate the Peloponnese. Although faced with various challenges and ultimately defeated, played a significant role in inspiring widespread support for Greek independence.

Continue Reading

Arthur Percival

English General and Singapore Defender
Born
December 26th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1966 59 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a British Army officer, particularly during World War II. Commanded the garrison in the defense of Singapore against Japanese forces in 1942. Surrendered to the Japanese, marking the largest capitulation in British military history. After the war, held various posts in the British military and contributed to post-war military planning. Authored accounts of military strategy and operations in his later years.

Continue Reading

11th Dalai Lama

Tibetan spiritual leader and reformer
Born
November 1st, 1838 186 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 Reading

John Mott

American activist and Nobel laureate
Born
May 25th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1955 70 years ago — 89 years old

An influential activist focused on youth and student movements. Mott served as the head of the World Student Christian Federation and played a critical role in establishing several international organizations aimed at promoting social responsibility among students. Mott was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1946 for efforts dedicated to fostering peace and understanding through education and religion. His work emphasized the importance of youth leadership in community development and international cooperation.

Continue Reading

Johannes Clauberg

German philosopher and theologian
Born
February 24th, 1622 403 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1665 360 years ago — 42 years old

A philosopher and theologian contributed to the development of Cartesianism in Germany. Focused on the integration of philosophy and theology, emphasized the importance of rationality in religious belief. Engaged with the works of René Descartes and sought to reconcile reason with faith. Sought to articulate a robust framework for understanding God within the context of philosophical inquiry. His works laid groundwork for future theological discourse in Germany during the 17th century.

Continue Reading