Sabahattin Ali
Turkish journalist and author of 'Kürtün'
A prominent figure in Turkish literature, contributed to the literary scene through journalism, poetry, and fictional prose. Most recognized for the novels 'Kürk Mantolu Madonna' and 'İçimizdeki Şeytan', which explore human emotions and societal challenges. His works often reflected the social and political issues of the time. Faced persecution for his leftist views, leading to imprisonment and eventual exile. His life ended tragically in 1948 under suspicious circumstances.
Authored 'Kürk Mantolu Madonna'
Wrote 'İçimizdeki Şeytan'
Contributed extensively to Turkish journalism
Other People Born on February 25th
Jimmer Fredette
Professional basketball player, 2011 Naismith Award winner
Born
February 25th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional basketball player, gained recognition during college basketball at Brigham Young University. Averaged 28.9 points per game in the 2010-2011 season, earning the Naismith College Player of the Year award. Selected as the 10th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, later traded to the Sacramento Kings. Played for several teams in the NBA, including the Bulls and the Pelicans, and contributed significantly in the Chinese Basketball Association, winning multiple championships with the Shanghai Sharks.
Continue ReadingA. Leon Higginbotham Jr.
Civil Rights Advocate and Judge
Born
February 25th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1998 27 years ago — 70 years old
Birth occurred in 1928. Served as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Contributed significantly to civil rights law, focusing on racial equality and social justice. Authored several influential books on law and history, including 'In the Matter of Color: Race and the American Legal Process'. Played a key role in numerous landmark cases related to civil rights. Participated in various professional organizations that advanced the cause of civil rights. Engaged in academia as a professor of law and held positions at institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania.
Continue ReadingJorge Soler
Cuban baseball player, World Series MVP
Born
February 25th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in Cuba, one of the prominent figures in professional baseball. Made a significant contribution as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Achieved recognition during the 2021 World Series while playing for the Atlanta Braves, where performance contributed to the team's championship victory. Prior to this, played for the Chicago Cubs and Kansas City Royals, showcasing powerful hitting skills.
Continue ReadingFrançois Cevert
Racing Driver; 1971 French Grand Prix podium
Born
February 25th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1973 52 years ago — 29 years old
A notable Formula One racing driver, competed primarily in the early 1970s. Achieved success with the Tyrrell team, securing several top finishes in his career. Noteworthy performance includes a third-place finish at the 1971 French Grand Prix, which solidified his reputation as a skilled competitor in the sport. Cevert's promising career was cut short due to a fatal accident during practice for the 1973 United States Grand Prix. His contributions to the sport have been remembered by fans and fellow racers alike, making a lasting impression in Formula One history.
Continue ReadingEnrico Caruso
Italian-American operatic tenor
Born
February 25th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1921 104 years ago — 48 years old
Born in Naples, Italy, an Italian-American tenor achieved acclaim as one of the greatest operatic voices of the early 20th century. Caruso made significant contributions to opera, performing at renowned venues such as the Metropolitan Opera in New York. His recordings became immensely popular, making him the first operatic singer to gain international fame through the medium. With a powerful tenor voice, he left an enduring legacy in the world of classical music.
Continue ReadingJohn Foster Dulles
U.S. Secretary of State and diplomat
Born
February 25th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1959 66 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 52nd United States Secretary of State from 1953 to 1959. Played a significant role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War. Championed the concept of collective security and advocated for actions against communism. Contributed to the establishment of NATO and other military alliances. Was involved in critical negotiations surrounding the Korean War and the Eisenhower Doctrine.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 2nd
Juan Vicente Pérez
Venezuelan supercentenarian
Born
May 27th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 114 years old
One of the oldest verified people in history. Born on May 27, 1909, lived through significant historical events in Venezuela and the world. Achieved recognition for longevity, surpassing 113 years. Became a figure of interest in studies about aging and health.
Continue ReadingMaryse Condé
Guadeloupean novelist and playwright
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent novelist, critic, and playwright, contributions span several decades. Notable works include "Windward Heights," "The Story of the Cannibal Woman," and "I, Tituba: Black Witch of Salem." Condé's literature often explores themes of identity, history, and the complexities of the Caribbean experience. In addition to fiction, contributions to literary criticism and analysis reflect insights into postcolonial literature. Recognition includes the 2018 New Academy Prize in Literature, awarded in lieu of the Nobel Prize that year. The writer's academic career included teaching positions at various universities around the world.
Continue ReadingSteve Stevaert
Belgian politician and Limburg Governor
Born
April 12th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a Belgian politician and businessman, holding the position of Governor of Limburg. His political career included significant roles in regional governance and local politics. Focused on social development and economic growth within the province. Engaged in various community projects aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.
Continue ReadingUrs Widmer
Swiss author and playwright
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
An author and playwright from Switzerland, created a significant body of work reflecting contemporary Swiss society. Notable works include the novel 'The Green Meadow' and the play 'The Tin Drum,' which tackle themes of identity and cultural conflict. Engaged in literary circles, contributed to various cultural discussions and promoted the importance of literature in modern life. Worked as an editor and influenced future generations of writers.
Continue ReadingSimon Bainbridge
British composer with influential works
Born
August 30th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2021 4 years ago — 68 years old
A British composer, recognized for contributions to contemporary classical music. Worked extensively in various formats, including orchestral and chamber music. Collaborated with prominent ensembles and received commissions from prestigious institutions. Explored themes and techniques that advanced the modern compositional landscape. Educated at notable institutions and held academic positions, fostering a new generation of composers.
Continue ReadingZewditu I of Ethiopia
Empress of Ethiopia and monarch
Born
1876 150 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1930 95 years ago — 54 years old
Zewditu I served as Empress of Ethiopia from 1916 until 1930. Ascending to the throne following a power struggle, she was the first female head of state in modern Ethiopian history. Zewditu ruled during a period marked by efforts to modernize the country while facing challenges from both internal factions and external threats. Despite her authority, political conflicts arose, particularly with the rise of her cousin, Ras Bitwaddad Tesemma. The period witnessed significant changes as Ethiopia navigated its identity in the wake of colonial pressures in Africa. Zewditu's reign ended with her death in 1930, after which her cousin became Emperor Haile Selassie I, ushering in a new era for the nation.
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