Thomas de Maizière
German politician and cabinet member
A prominent figure in German politics, held various ministerial positions, including Federal Minister of the Interior and Federal Minister of Defence. Actively participated in shaping Germany's security policies and integration of migrants. Served as a member of the Bundestag, representing the Christian Democratic Union party. Contributed to discussions on European security and national defense during critical periods, including the refugee crisis and cybersecurity challenges.
Served as Federal Minister of the Interior
Served as Federal Minister of Defence
Other People Born on January 21st
Grigori Rasputin
Russian mystic and advisor to royalty
Born
January 21st, 1869 157 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1916 109 years ago — 47 years old
Born in Siberia, a mystic developed a following among the Russian aristocracy. Gained influence over the imperial family, particularly Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra, through his alleged healing abilities, especially during the Tsarevich Alexei's hemophilia crisis. His controversial presence escalated tensions with government officials and the public. Rasputin was murdered in 1916 by nobles aiming to save the monarchy from his perceived negative influence.
Continue ReadingJohn M. Stahl
Film director and producer of melodramas
Born
January 21st, 1886 140 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent film director and producer, associated primarily with the melodrama genre. Served as a director for several classic films during the early to mid-20th century. Gained recognition for a directorial style that emphasized emotional depth and character development. Contributed significantly to the production of notable films during the 1930s and 1940s, including 'Nana' and 'Imitation of Life.' Established a reputation for crafting engaging stories that resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingGeorge Kerferd
Australian politician; 10th Premier of Victoria
Born
January 21st, 1831 195 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1889 136 years ago — 58 years old
Served as the 10th Premier of Victoria from 1870 to 1871. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Victorian Government and contributed to key legislative developments during his tenure. Actively involved in the growth of education and public works in the state, advocating for infrastructure improvements.
Continue ReadingRené Iché
French sculptor and war memorialist
Born
January 21st, 1897 129 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1954 71 years ago — 57 years old
René Iché was a sculptor whose work prominently featured themes of war and remembrance. Born in France, Iché's artistic career spanned several decades, during which he created many significant sculptures. His works often reflected the impact of World War I, as he served as a soldier during the conflict. After the war, Iché dedicated himself to memorial sculptures, capturing the experiences of soldiers and the devastation of war. His art was exhibited in various galleries and locations, contributing to France's artistic landscape.
Continue ReadingAdriaen van der Werff
Dutch painter renowned for his portraits
Born
January 21st, 1659 367 years ago
Died
1722 304 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1659, a Dutch painter specialized in portraiture and history painting. Studied under prominent artists and became a noted member of the Guild of Saint Luke in Delft. His work displayed a keen attention to detail and rich color palettes. Van der Werff gained recognition for his refined style, which combined traditional techniques with emotional depth. He produced numerous portraits of nobility and affluent citizens, and his work was celebrated across Europe. The artist also served as a court painter in several instances, further solidifying his reputation. His legacy includes a significant body of work that exemplifies the Baroque style in Dutch painting.
Continue ReadingPieter Hendrik Schoute
Dutch mathematician and academic
Born
January 21st, 1846 180 years ago
Died
1923 103 years ago — 77 years old
A mathematician and academic contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in the fields of projective geometry and algebra. Schoute published extensively in mathematical journals and served as a professor at various institutions. The work focused on the principles of projective spaces and geometric transformations, garnering recognition within the mathematical community.
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