Zewditu I of Ethiopia

Empress of Ethiopia and monarch

Zewditu I of Ethiopia - Empress of Ethiopia and monarch
Born

1876
149 years ago

Died

April 2nd, 1930
95 years ago — 54 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Ethiopia

Links & References

Zewditu I served as Empress of Ethiopia from 1916 until 1930. Ascending to the throne following a power struggle, she was the first female head of state in modern Ethiopian history. Zewditu ruled during a period marked by efforts to modernize the country while facing challenges from both internal factions and external threats. Despite her authority, political conflicts arose, particularly with the rise of her cousin, Ras Bitwaddad Tesemma. The period witnessed significant changes as Ethiopia navigated its identity in the wake of colonial pressures in Africa. Zewditu's reign ended with her death in 1930, after which her cousin became Emperor Haile Selassie I, ushering in a new era for the nation.

First female head of state in Ethiopia

Reign from 1916 to 1930

Navigated modernization efforts

Other People Who Died on April 2nd

Levi Celerio

Filipino composer and songwriter of hits
Born
April 30th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2002 23 years ago — 91 years old

A prolific composer and songwriter in the Philippines. Celerio wrote more than 4,000 songs across multiple genres, securing a prominent place in Filipino music. He gained recognition for creating music for films, radio, and television. Celerio became the only person to produce music using a leaf, which earned him a place in the Guinness World Records. His work contributed significantly to the Filipino cultural landscape.

Continue Reading

Johann Jacob Dillenius

Botanist known for 'Historia Muscorum'
Born
1684 341 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1747 278 years ago — 63 years old

A botanist and mycologist originally from Germany, contributed significantly to the study of plants and fungi. Moved to England, where he continued research and teaching. Most notable work, 'Historia Muscorum', provided an extensive classification of mosses. His detailed drawings and descriptions became a key reference for later botanical studies. Also served as a professor of botany at the University of Oxford, influencing the field of botany through teaching and scholarship.

Continue Reading

Paul Heyse

German author and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 15th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1914 111 years ago — 84 years old

An influential German author, poet, and playwright, recognized for contributions to literature. Worked extensively in poetry and prose, and became a prominent figure in the literary world. Authored multiple novels, short stories, and plays, reflecting themes of love, nature, and human experience. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1910. Played a significant role in the literary movement of realism and influenced later generations of writers.

Continue Reading

Diego Luis de San Vitores

Spanish Jesuit missionary in Guam
Born
November 12th, 1627 397 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1672 353 years ago — 44 years old

A Spanish Jesuit missionary traveled to the Mariana Islands in 1668, where he worked to evangelize the indigenous Chamorro people. Established several missions and was instrumental in the spread of Christianity in the region. His efforts greatly influenced the cultural and religious landscape of Guam. His missionary work faced challenges, including resistance from both the local population and rival colonial powers. San Vitores was martyred in 1672 during confrontations with Chamorro warriors, highlighting the tensions of colonialism and religious conversion in the Pacific.

Continue Reading

Hugo Sperrle

German field marshal and military leader
Born
February 7th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1953 72 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1885, a prominent figure in the German military during World War II. Served as a field marshal and held significant command positions within the Luftwaffe. Played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain and was responsible for air operations over the Mediterranean theater. Oversaw major Luftwaffe formations and was involved in strategic military decisions that shaped air warfare during the conflict.

Continue Reading

Gallieno Ferri

Comic book artist and illustrator
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

Worked primarily in the comic book industry, contributing illustrations and stories from the 1960s onwards. Created and illustrated the character Zagor, a popular comic book hero published by Bonelli Editore. His artwork featured a blend of adventure and fantasy set in various intriguing environments. Collaborated with several writers and took part in different projects that expanded the presence of Italian comics both nationally and internationally.

Continue Reading