Zachris Topelius
Finnish author and journalist
A prominent figure in Finnish literature and journalism, contributed considerably to Finnish identity and culture during the 19th century. Authored several novels, poetry collections, and children's stories, focusing on themes related to Finnish folklore and history. Played a significant role in the development of Finnish-language literature. Edited various publications, advocating for national education and media.
Authored 'Maamme-kirja' (Our Land)
Served as editor for 'Helsingin Sanomat'
Other People Born on January 14th
Dion Forster
Theologian and author of religious texts
Born
January 14th, 1972 54 years ago
A South African minister and theologian focused on addressing contemporary issues from a theological perspective. Engaged in academic and pastoral work, contributed writings that explored the intersection of faith and social justice. Served in various leadership roles within the church and theological education. Participated in numerous conferences and seminars, highlighting themes of faith, spirituality, and ethics.
Continue ReadingBert Konterman
Dutch footballer and manager with expertise
Born
January 14th, 1971 55 years ago
Played as a defender and midfielder in professional football, primarily for clubs such as FC Groningen, Feyenoord, and Vitesse Arnhem. Represented the national team of the Netherlands, earning multiple caps during the 1990s. Transitioned into management after retirement from professional play, leading various clubs in the Dutch football leagues.
Continue ReadingEmperor Nakamikado of Japan
Emperor of Japan during Edo period
Born
January 14th, 1702 324 years ago
Died
1737 289 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1702, served as the 113th Emperor of Japan from 1709 until death in 1735. During the Edo period, presided over a time characterized by stability and isolation. Focused on strengthening the imperial court's rituals and governance while supporting cultural advancements. During this reign, significant developments in literature, art, and philosophy occurred, particularly in relation to the Tokugawa shogunate. His reign witnessed a flourishing of culture, particularly in the visual arts and Noh theatre.
Continue ReadingLeo Kadanoff
Physicist known for statistical mechanics
Born
January 14th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
An American physicist contributed significantly to the fields of condensed matter physics and statistical mechanics. Developed important theories related to phase transitions and critical phenomena. Held a position at the University of Chicago for several decades, influencing many students and researchers. Published numerous influential papers and authored books that are widely used in academic settings. Received various accolades throughout the career for contributions to the scientific community.
Continue ReadingAaron Brooks
Basketball player; 2007 NBA Champion
Born
January 14th, 1985 41 years ago
A professional basketball player, entered the NBA after playing collegiate basketball at the University of Oregon. Played primarily as a point guard and gained recognition for speed and shooting ability. Spent significant time with the Houston Rockets, becoming a key contributor to the team's success during the late 2000s. Was part of the Golden State Warriors, capturing the 2007 NBA Championship. Also played for teams including the Phoenix Suns and Chicago Bulls, contributing to various playoff runs.
Continue ReadingDavid Clary
Chemist known for research in reaction dynamics
Born
January 14th, 1953 73 years ago
A chemist and academic focused on the physical chemistry of chemical reactions, contributions include work on reaction dynamics, computational chemistry, and interstellar chemistry. Held prestigious positions at universities and institutions, promoting research and education in chemistry. Authored numerous publications advancing understanding of molecular processes and chemical bonding. Served as president of the Royal Society of Chemistry, demonstrating leadership within the scientific community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 12th
Robert Ludlum
American author of spy novels
Born
May 25th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 73 years old
An author known for creating thrilling espionage narratives. Wrote the Jason Bourne series, which includes the novels 'The Bourne Identity,' 'The Bourne Supremacy,' and 'The Bourne Ultimatum.' Contributed extensively to the genre of political and espionage thrillers through numerous bestsellers. Works often depicted complex conspiracies and intricate plots, capturing the tension of the Cold War era.
Continue ReadingGanesh Pyne
Indian painter and Illustrator
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent painter and illustrator, contributions focused on painting, Indian mythology, and surrealism. Worked primarily with watercolors and oils, creating intricate and emotionally charged pieces. Exhibited in various national and international galleries, displaying distinct style and themes rooted in Indian culture. Received multiple accolades for artistic achievements throughout career, significantly influencing contemporary Indian art.
Continue ReadingVictor Westhoff
Dutch botanist and academic researcher
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of botany, focusing on the flora of the Netherlands and the ecology of plant communities. Worked as a professor at several universities, where teaching and mentoring students formed a major part of the academic career. Conducted significant research on the classification and distribution of various plant species. Played a pivotal role in conservation efforts, particularly in preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable practices in botany. Authored numerous publications, contributing valuable knowledge to the scientific community.
Continue ReadingStefan Dragutin
Serbian King and noble ruler
Died
March 12th, 1316 709 years ago — None years old
Became King of Serbia in 1282, ruling until 1316. Established territorial expansion and influence for Serbia during the late medieval period. His reign was marked by conflict with neighboring kingdoms and internal power struggles. Adopted a Catholic faith, which introduced religious changes in a predominantly Orthodox region. Led military campaigns against the Kingdom of Hungary and maintained regional power through strategic alliances.
Continue ReadingDick Harter
Basketball coach and player at a high level
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a college basketball coach and player. Played for the University of Maine and later transitioned into coaching. Coached at several institutions, leading teams to multiple tournament appearances. Known for a strong defensive coaching philosophy and developing players' skills. Worked at both the University of Oregon and the University of North Carolina among other schools.
Continue ReadingFriedhelm Konietzka
Footballer and manager, Bundesliga pioneer
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
A German-Swiss footballer and manager, played as a forward primarily for Hertha BSC. Achieved a significant milestone as the first player to score a goal in the Bundesliga during its inaugural season in 1963. Transitioned into management after retiring from professional play, leading various clubs in both Germany and Switzerland. Notable coaching tenure included managing FC Winterthur and VfL Wolfsburg.
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