Selena
Singer-songwriter, Queen of Tejano Music
An influential singer-songwriter in the Tejano genre, gained popularity in the early 1990s. Released influential albums including 'Selena' and 'Amor Prohibido.' Achieved commercial success with multiple hits, resonating with both English and Spanish-speaking audiences. Tragically passed away at a young age, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry. Posthumously recognized with several awards and honors, solidifying a prominent place in Latin music history.
Released the album 'Amor Prohibido'
Won a Grammy Award for 'Best Mexican-American Album'
Expanded the Tejano music genre's reach across mainstream audiences
Other People Born on April 16th
Lennart Risberg
Swedish boxer with Olympic experience
Born
April 16th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 78 years old
Competitive boxing career spanned several years, including participation in the 1960 Rome Olympics. Achieved significant recognition within national and international boxing circles. Notable for skill and techniques that showcased the sport's tactical nature.
Continue ReadingCaleb Blood Smith
U.S. Secretary of the Interior
Born
April 16th, 1808 218 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1864 162 years ago — 55 years old
Served as the 6th U.S. Secretary of the Interior from 1861 to 1862. Participated in the early stages of the Civil War as part of President Abraham Lincoln's cabinet. Engaged in policy-making that impacted the management of public lands and resources. Prior to the cabinet position, held a significant role in journalism and contributed to the establishment of various public policies.
Continue ReadingVicar
Chilean cartoonist and illustrator
Born
April 16th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2012 14 years ago — 77 years old
An influential Chilean cartoonist specialized in humor and satire. Worked for several national and international publications and became a prominent figure in the Latin American cartooning scene. Contributed to various iconic Chilean humor magazines, where political and social satire flourished during the country's tumultuous periods. Collaborated with well-known artists and maintained a legacy of sharp wit through powerful imagery and narratives until passing away in 2012.
Continue ReadingQueen Margrethe II of Denmark
Danish monarch, artist, and cultural figure
Born
April 16th, 1940 86 years ago
Born on April 16, 1940, the individual ascended the throne of Denmark in 1972, becoming the first female monarch of Denmark since Margrethe I in the 14th century. Extensive involvement in arts and culture includes work as an illustrator and set designer for theatrical productions, as well as contributions to Danish cinema. Active in various cultural and social causes, contributions to the Danish Red Cross and the World Wildlife Fund occurred regularly. The individual has also represented Denmark in numerous official capacities and diplomatic relations.
Continue ReadingVince Hill
English singer-songwriter with 'Edelweiss'
Born
April 16th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 89 years old
A British singer-songwriter gained recognition in the 1960s. Achieved success with the song 'Edelweiss', which reached the UK Singles Chart. Released several albums throughout the following decades and became a prominent figure in the British music scene. In addition to a solo career, contributed to television and performed on numerous shows, earning a place in popular culture.
Continue ReadingSadie Sink
American actress in 'Stranger Things'
Born
April 16th, 2002 24 years ago
Born in 2002, an actress emerged in the entertainment industry with significant roles in television and film. Gained prominence for playing Max Mayfield in the Netflix series 'Stranger Things'. Also starred in the film adaptation of 'Dear Evan Hansen', showcasing talent in both dramatic and musical roles. Participated in various theatrical productions, further expanding presence in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 31st
Ivan I of Moscow
Grand Duke of Moscow
Born
1288 738 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1340 686 years ago — 52 years old
Ruled as Grand Duke of Moscow from 1325 to 1340. Strengthened the power of Moscow by consolidating territories and exerting influence over neighboring principalities. Actively engaged in diplomacy, securing favorable relations with the Golden Horde. Initiated the construction of significant religious structures, contributing to the cultural landscape of the region.
Continue ReadingNick Newton
Inventor of the Newton Starting Blocks
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2018 8 years ago — 85 years old
An inventor focused on athletic equipment, contributed to the advancement of track and field. Developed the Newton Starting Blocks, which enhanced sprinter performance by providing better footing at the start of races. Collaborated with athletes and coaches to refine the design and functionality of the starting blocks, which have been widely adopted in various competitions. The innovation played a significant role in the optimization of sprinting techniques.
Continue ReadingMoana Jackson
Constitutional lawyer and advocate
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2022 4 years ago — 77 years old
Specialized in constitutional law with a focus on Indigenous rights. Contributed significantly to the drafting of key legal documents in New Zealand. Advised the government on treaty issues and participated in national conversations on constitutional reform. Engaged in various legal battles advocating for the rights of Māori and other indigenous populations. Worked with numerous organizations to promote social justice and legal recognition for Indigenous peoples.
Continue ReadingRoger Somville
Belgian painter known for vibrant abstractions
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2014 12 years ago — 91 years old
This Belgian painter specialized in abstract art, focusing on the interplay of color and form. Renowned for bold compositions and innovative techniques, his work was characterized by a fusion of painting and intense emotional expression. His artistic journey included participation in numerous exhibitions, both nationally and internationally. An adherence to the principles of informel painting highlighted the spontaneity and freedom in his creations. Over the years, he received significant recognition within the European art community, contributing to the evolution of modern art in Belgium.
Continue ReadingPatrick Demarchelier
Fashion photographer, worked with Vogue
Born
August 21st, 1943 83 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2022 4 years ago — 78 years old
French fashion photographer gained prominence in the fashion industry, capturing iconic images for magazines. Received acclaim for a distinctive style that blended fine art and commercial photography. Collaborated with numerous celebrities and brands, creating memorable campaigns that influenced fashion trends. Photographed notable fashion editorials and campaigns for Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and other prestigious publications, establishing a significant presence in the world of fashion photography.
Continue ReadingGonzalo Anes
Economist and historian of Spain
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2014 12 years ago — 83 years old
An economist and historian contributed significantly to the fields of economics and historical research in Spain. Focused primarily on the economic history and contemporary economic issues, engaged in academia for many years. Served as the director of the Economic and Social History Department at the University of Barcelona. Made substantial contributions to studies regarding the economic structures and policies of the Spanish economy, particularly during the 20th century. Involved in various research projects and published multiple works that analyzed Spain's economic development and historical context.
Continue Reading