February 16 in History: Famous Births, Events, and Deaths

February 16 has witnessed several remarkable events that shaped world history. From political revolutions and independence movements to groundbreaking discoveries, this day marks key turning points across centuries. Many influential figures in science, literature, music, and politics were also born or passed away on this date, leaving behind lasting legacies. It stands as a reminder of humanity’s continuous journey through innovation, freedom, and creativity.

Famous People Born on February 16

1959 John McEnroe: American tennis legend known for his fiery personality and seven Grand Slam titles.

1931 Kim Jong-il: Former leader of North Korea, who ruled the country from 1994 until his death in 2011.

1957 LeVar Burton: American actor and television host, best known for "Roots" and "Reading Rainbow."

1958 Ice-T: American rapper, songwriter, and actor, recognized for pioneering gangsta rap and starring in "Law & Order: SVU."

1935 Sonny Bono: American singer, actor, and politician, part of the duo Sonny & Cher.

1928 John Schlesinger: British film director, known for classics like "Midnight Cowboy" and "Marathon Man."

1916 Vera-Ellen: American actress and dancer, best remembered for her roles in Hollywood musicals like "White Christmas."

1981 Valentino Rossi: Italian motorcycle racer, one of the most successful in MotoGP history.

1954 Iain Banks: Scottish author, known for novels like "The Wasp Factory" and science fiction series "The Culture."

1964 Christopher Eccleston: English actor, best known as the Ninth Doctor in "Doctor Who" and roles in "The Leftovers."

1991 The Weeknd: Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer, known for hits like "Blinding Lights" and "Starboy."

Famous Events on February 16

600: Pope Gregory the Great issues a decree saying “God bless you” should be the proper response to a sneeze.

1918: Lithuania declares its independence from Germany and Russia, forming the modern Republic of Lithuania.

1923: Archaeologists open the inner burial chamber of Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s tomb in Egypt, revealing priceless treasures.

1937: Wallace H. Carothers receives a U.S. patent for nylon, revolutionizing the textile industry.

1948: The North Korean People's Army is established, marking a significant step in the creation of North Korea.

1959: Fidel Castro becomes the 16th Prime Minister of Cuba after the revolution that ousted Fulgencio Batista.

1968: The first 911 emergency telephone system in the United States goes into service in Haleyville, Alabama.

1978: The first computer bulletin board system (BBS) is created, paving the way for modern internet communities.

1983: The Ash Wednesday bushfires devastate parts of southern Australia, killing over 70 people.

2005: The Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, comes into force.

2011: Protests erupt in Libya as part of the Arab Spring movement, eventually leading to the downfall of Muammar Gaddafi.

Famous People Who Died on February 16

1963 Patrick White: Australian novelist and Nobel Prize winner in Literature.

1984 Léon Jouhaux: French trade union leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

1996 Mitchell Parish: American lyricist known for songs like “Stardust” and “Stars Fell on Alabama.”

2004 Loretta Young: American actress, Oscar-winning star of classic Hollywood films.

2006 John Entwistle: English musician and bassist of The Who.

2013 Hal David: American lyricist famous for his partnership with composer Burt Bacharach.

2019 Bob Einstein: American actor and comedian, best known as Super Dave Osborne.

February 16 stands as a day of historical significance, marked by moments of political change, scientific breakthroughs, and cultural achievements. From Lithuania’s declaration of independence to the creation of nylon and the emergence of iconic figures in music, sports, and literature, this day highlights human creativity, resilience, and progress. Remembering the births and deaths of influential personalities also offers inspiration, showing how individual contributions can leave a lasting impact on the world.