Wolfgang Leonhard

German historian and author

Wolfgang Leonhard - German historian and author
Born

April 16th, 1921
104 years ago

Died

August 17th, 2014
10 years ago — 93 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Germany

Links & References

A German historian and author focused on the history of communism and the Eastern Bloc. Born in 1921, early experiences in the USSR influenced later scholarly work. Emigrated to West Germany in 1948, contributing to the understanding of East Germany and communism in Europe. Wrote extensively, with significant titles including 'The War Within the German Communist Party' and 'Child of the Revolution'.

Authored 'The War Within the German Communist Party'

Wrote 'Child of the Revolution'

Other People Born on April 16th

Octave Crémazie

Poet and bookseller of Canada
Born
April 16th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1879 146 years ago — 51 years old

A Canadian-French poet and bookseller contributed significantly to the literary scene in Quebec. He published poems that reflected the culture and social issues of his time, often advocating for French Canadian nationalism. His poetic works were published posthumously in collections, with a notable emphasis on themes of identity and the French language. Crémazie also played a vital role in promoting French literature in North America through his work as a bookseller and publisher, assisting in the dissemination of French books.

Continue Reading

Thomas Stonor

Banker and UK Lord Chamberlain
Born
April 16th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the 7th Baron Camoys and held the position of Lord Chamberlain of the United Kingdom. Engaged in the banking sector with significant responsibilities. Contributed to the royal household during a period of modernizing changes. Involved in various charitable activities and support for the arts.

Continue Reading

Michalis Dorizas

Football player and javelin thrower
Born
April 16th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1957 67 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1886, this Greek-American athlete excelled in both football and javelin throwing. Played for the New York Americans in American professional football. Achieved recognition for javelin throwing competitions and represented the United States in international events. Competed in various athletic meets, showcasing skills in the javelin event alongside football.

Continue Reading

John Bowe

Australian racing driver, Bathurst 1000 winner
Born
April 16th, 1954 71 years ago

Born in 1954, this individual entered the world of motorsport in the late 1970s and competed in various racing categories. Primarily known for success in touring car racing, significant achievements include multiple championships and victories in prestigious events. Achievements in the Australian Touring Car Championship, including several well-regarded wins, showcased talent in high-stakes racing. The celebrated Bathurst 1000 served as a key highlight in the racing career, with a notable victory further solidifying the individual’s reputation in the sport. Throughout the driving career, strong performances were marked by consistency and competitiveness, especially during the 1990s and early 2000s.

Continue Reading

Brendon Leonard

Rugby player for New Zealand teams
Born
April 16th, 1985 40 years ago

A rugby player achieved recognition in the international game, representing New Zealand in both sevens and fifteen-a-side formats. Played for the provincial team, Waikato, in the ITM Cup and through the years competed in the Super Rugby league with the Chiefs. Contributed to the New Zealand sevens team, participating in various international competitions and helping to elevate the team's status on the world stage.

Continue Reading

Kerron Stewart

Jamaican sprinter Olympic medalist
Born
April 16th, 1984 41 years ago

A Jamaican sprinter specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, winning a silver medal in the 100 meters and a bronze in the 200 meters. Achieved notable successes on the international stage, including participation in multiple World Championships. Recorded personal best times of 10.75 seconds in the 100 meters and 21.98 seconds in the 200 meters. Also contributed to relay competitions and was part of Jamaica's team at various international track and field meetings.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 17th

Jack Sharkey

Professional boxer and referee
Born
October 26th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1994 30 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1902, this individual became a prominent heavyweight boxing champion in the 1920s and 1930s. Claiming the World Heavyweight title in 1932, significant bouts included matches against Max Schmeling and Jim Braddock. Transitioning to a career as a referee, the individual oversaw numerous high-profile boxing matches, bringing extensive experience to the role. Retirement from boxing did not diminish involvement in the sport.

Continue Reading

Frederick the Great

Prussian king and military leader
Born
January 24th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1786 238 years ago — 74 years old

A monarch of the Kingdom of Prussia, led significant military campaigns during the Silesian Wars and the Seven Years' War. His reign is marked by extensive reforms in military, administrative practices, and the promotion of the arts. He established Prussia as a major European power. His interest in philosophy and music also contributed to the cultural life of his court.

Continue Reading

Billy Fiske

Pilot and soldier in World War II
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1940 84 years ago — 29 years old

Served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Initially trained as a pilot in the United States, later joined the British forces due to the urgency of the conflict. Participated in various missions, demonstrating flying skills and bravery. Fiske tragically lost his life in action, earning recognition for his service and sacrifice.

Continue Reading

Anne Dacier

French scholar and translator of classics
Born
1654 371 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1720 304 years ago — 66 years old

Contributed significantly to the translation of classical works into French. Translated the works of Homer, including the 'Iliad' and the 'Odyssey', making these ancient texts accessible to a wider French-speaking audience. Engaged in scholarly debates and corresponded with prominent intellectuals of the time, enhancing the cultural landscape of the era. Worked to defend and promote the value of classical literature through her translations and commentaries.

Continue Reading

Victor Poor

Engineer, developer of Datapoint 2200
Born
July 12th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 79 years old

An engineer born in 1933, contributed significantly to the development of computing technology. Focused on advancements in hardware and software, played a critical role in creating the Datapoint 2200, which is recognized as one of the first programmable desktop computers. This innovation helped pave the way for the personal computer revolution, influencing future designs and architectures in computing. Served as a key figure in the evolution of early computer systems and supported the growth of the computing industry during the 1970s.

Continue Reading

Edmond Audran

French organist and composer of operas
Born
1842 183 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1901 123 years ago — 59 years old

An organist and composer from France, recognized for contributions to the operatic genre. Significant works include 'La Mascotte' and 'Girelle.' Audran held prominent positions in various churches, where expertise in organ performance was demonstrated. Composed operettas that were performed in various theaters, gaining popularity during the late 19th century.

Continue Reading