Ron Vlaar
Dutch footballer, World Cup participant
A prominent Dutch footballer, played primarily as a central defender. Began professional career with Feyenoord and had notable success at AZ Alkmaar, winning the Eredivisie in 2009. Gained international recognition while representing the Netherlands national team, participating in the 2014 FIFA World Cup where the team reached the semi-finals. Continued career in the English Premier League with Aston Villa, contributing to the team's performances during his tenure. After several successful years, concluded professional playing career before shifting focus to coaching and mentoring within football.
Winning Eredivisie with AZ Alkmaar in 2009
Reaching semi-finals of 2014 FIFA World Cup
Other People Born on February 16th
Edgar Bergen
Ventriloquist and actor with Charlie McCarthy
Born
February 16th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1978 47 years ago — 75 years old
A ventriloquist and actor, this individual gained fame during the mid-20th century with the creation of the character Charlie McCarthy. Bergen's performances combined humor and innovative ventriloquism techniques, captivating audiences through radio and television. The ventriloquist's radio show, 'The Edgar Bergen-Charlie McCarthy Show,' aired from 1937 to 1956 and featured numerous guest stars. His work in film included appearances in 'The Goldwyn Follies' and 'Hollywood Hotel.' Bergen's unique talent helped to popularize ventriloquism as a form of entertainment.
Continue ReadingKoffee
Jamaican reggae singer and Grammy winner
Born
February 16th, 2000 25 years ago
A prominent reggae singer and songwriter, Koffee gained international attention with her breakout single 'Toast' in 2019. The song celebrated success and resilience, showcasing her distinctive blend of reggae and dancehall. Koffee's debut EP, 'Rapture', released in 2019, earned critical acclaim and commercial popularity. In 2020, Koffee won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album, becoming the youngest person and only the second woman to receive the award. Her style and lyrical content resonate with a youthful audience, reflecting themes of empowerment and positivity.
Continue ReadingJames Colosimo
Italian-American mob boss at the Chicago Outfit
Born
February 16th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1920 105 years ago — 42 years old
An Italian-American mob boss became a significant figure in organized crime during the early 20th century. Colosimo immigrated to the United States and established himself as a key player in Chicago's underworld. His activities included prostitution, gambling, and mob operations. Colosimo's leadership and connections helped shape the Chicago Outfit, a major crime syndicate. His tenure was marked by expansion and influence in various illegal enterprises until his assassination in 1920.
Continue ReadingLuc Bourdon
Canadian Ice Hockey Player with Vancouver Canucks
Born
February 16th, 1987 38 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2008 17 years ago — 21 years old
Accomplished ice hockey player played in the NHL. Drafted 10th overall by the Vancouver Canucks in 2005. Took part in international competitions representing Canada, notably winning a gold medal at the 2006 World Junior Championships. Played as a defenseman, known for his strong skating ability and physical style of play. Tragically passed away in 2008 at a young age, which cut short a promising career.
Continue ReadingWayne King
American singer-songwriter and conductor
Born
February 16th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1985 40 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent figure in the music industry, contributed significantly as a bandleader and conductor. Gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s, leading the Wayne King Orchestra, which became renowned for its romantic music style and dance arrangements. Achieved notable success with recordings of light classical pieces, popular songs, and his signature waltzes. The orchestra performed extensively on radio and in live concerts, establishing a wide audience. In addition to conducting, engaged in songwriting, furthering the appeal of the music through original compositions.
Continue ReadingHans F. K. Günther
Eugenicist and academic in Germany
Born
February 16th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1968 57 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent eugenicist and academic, contributed to the field of racial theory and eugenics in Germany. Authored several works on race and genetics, influencing eugenics policies during the early to mid-20th century. Associated with the concept of racial hygiene, which laid theoretical groundwork for subsequent social and political movements. Involved in various academic institutions and participated in the eugenicist discourse prevalent in Germany during his time.
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