Sam Nujoma

Namibian politician, 1st President

Sam Nujoma - Namibian politician, 1st President
Born

May 12th, 1929
95 years ago

Died

February 8th, 2025
0 years ago — 95 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Namibia

Links & References

A prominent figure in the struggle for Namibia's independence, the first president played a significant role in the country’s transition from colonial rule to autonomy. Serving as president from 1990 to 2005, efforts included establishing a constitutional democracy and promoting national unity. Prior to presidency, involvement in the liberation movement as a leader of SWAPO (South West Africa People's Organization) was crucial in gaining political recognition. Engagement in various international platforms to advocate for African solidarity further defined the political career.

Led Namibia to independence from South Africa

Served as the first president from 1990 to 2005

Other People Born on May 12th

Steve Smith Sr.

American football wide receiver
Born
May 12th, 1979 45 years ago

Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) for the Carolina Panthers and the Baltimore Ravens. Smith spent 13 seasons with the Panthers, becoming the franchise's all-time leading receiver. A five-time Pro Bowl selection, he was known for his exceptional speed and playmaking ability. Smith won Super Bowl 50 with the Ravens and finished his career with over 14,000 receiving yards, ranking among the all-time leaders in the league. His fierce competitiveness and leadership were noted throughout his career, earning him a reputation as one of the top receivers of his generation.

Continue Reading

Robert Baldwin

Canadian politician and lawyer
Born
May 12th, 1804 220 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1858 166 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the third Premier of Canada West from 1848 to 1851. Played a significant role in the introduction of responsible government in Canada. Contributed to the establishment of public education in Canada West. Advocated for civil liberties and democratic reforms.

Continue Reading

Jason Biggs

Actor and comedian from American Pie
Born
May 12th, 1978 46 years ago

Born in 1978, an actor and comedian gained recognition for roles in film and television. Gained widespread popularity for the character Jim Levenstein in the American Pie film series. Appeared in multiple sequels, including American Pie 2 and American Reunion. Featured in the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black, portraying Larry Bloom. Also voiced a character in the animated series Nerds and featured in the sitcom Mad Love.

Continue Reading

Joachim von Sandrart

German art-historian and painter
Born
May 12th, 1606 418 years ago
Died
1688 337 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1606, a prominent art historian and painter participated in the development of art theory. Co-founded the German Academy of Arts, contributing significantly to the appreciation and understanding of art. Authored important texts that analyzed the works of various artists and crafted a detailed narrative of art history. His paintings often depicted historical and mythological themes, reflecting the Baroque style prevalent during his lifetime.

Continue Reading

Farley Mowat

Canadian environmentalist and author
Born
May 12th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 10 years ago — 92 years old

This Canadian author and environmentalist wrote extensively about nature and conservation. Many works highlighted the relationship between humans and the environment, with early publications reflecting a deep concern for wildlife preservation. The book 'Never Cry Wolf' presented an influential narrative on the life of wolves and their ecosystem. Mowat's writing style combined humor and heartfelt observations, which resonated with a wide audience. He traveled extensively, often immersing in the habitats he documented. His advocacy for the environment and critiquing of government policy drew national and international attention.

Continue Reading

Florent Amodio

Figure skater and European champion
Born
May 12th, 1990 34 years ago

Competed in figure skating representing France. Achieved prominence by winning the 2012 European Figure Skating Championships. Participated in the 2010 Winter Olympics and several World Figure Skating Championships, frequently showcasing technical skills and artistic expression. Throughout career, established a reputation for captivating performances and strong competitive presence.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 8th

Peter Mansfield

Physicist and Nobel laureate in Medicine
Born
October 9th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Conducted pioneering research that led to advancements in medical imaging technologies. His work revolutionized non-invasive diagnostics and enabled detailed imaging of internal body structures. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2003 for achievements in MRI technology, which greatly enhanced medical practices worldwide.

Continue Reading

Ivan V of Russia

Tsar of Russia during the 17th century
Born
September 6th, 1666 358 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1696 329 years ago — 29 years old

Born in 1666, ruled as Tsar of Russia from 1682 until 1696. Ascended the throne alongside his half-brother, Peter the Great, with whom shared power. Ivan's reign was marked by struggles with health, leading to limited personal involvement in governance. His co-regency with Peter the Great influenced the direction of Russian policy significantly. Following Ivan's death, Peter continued reforms that transformed Russia into a major European power.

Continue Reading

Hulagu Khan

Mongol ruler and military commander
Born
1217 808 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1265 760 years ago — 48 years old

A grandson of Genghis Khan, commanded Mongol forces during the 13th century. Led the successful siege of Baghdad in 1258, marking the end of the Islamic Golden Age. Established the Ilkhanate in Persia, contributing to the Mongol rule over the region and promoting trade and culture.

Continue Reading

Helen of Anjou

Queen of Serbia during the 14th century
Born
1236 789 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1314 711 years ago — 78 years old

Served as queen consort of Serbia through marriage. Contributed to the stabilization and consolidation of the Serbian state during the medieval period. Played a role in the political alliances of the region, facilitating relations between her homeland and Serbia. The marriage to King Stefan Uroš II Milutin enhanced royal lineage and governance.

Continue Reading

Peter Kropotkin

Russian zoologist and geographer
Born
December 9th, 1842 182 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1921 104 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of zoology and geography. Developed the theory of mutual aid, emphasizing cooperation among species. Engaged in studies of the natural world, promoting a progressive view of evolution. Published major works including 'Mutual Aid: A Factor of Evolution' and 'The Conquest of Bread', which addressed social and economic issues with an anarchist perspective. Involved in revolutionary activities and promoted anarchism as a political philosophy.

Continue Reading

Severus of Antioch

Patriarch of Antioch, prominent theologian
Died
February 8th, 538 1487 years ago — None years old

Became Patriarch of Antioch in 512, leading the church during a period of significant theological disputes. Severus played an essential role in the Miaphysite movement, advocating for the nature of Christ's divinity. His tenure was marked by strong opposition to the decisions of the Council of Chalcedon, emphasizing the one united nature of Christ. Severus faced persecution for his beliefs and was ultimately exiled, continuing his theological work in exile until his death in 538.

Continue Reading