Pathetic Facts

South African musicians died when they were 64

Here are 15 famous musicians from South Africa died at 64:

Aggrey Klaaste

Aggrey Klaaste (January 6, 1940 Kimberley, Northern Cape-June 19, 2004) was a South African editor.

He was the editor of Sowetan, which is the largest circulated newspaper targeting black readership in South Africa. Klaaste was a pioneer in the South African media industry and was known for his commitment to journalism and the fight against apartheid. He was the first black editor of a major South African newspaper, and under his leadership, Sowetan became the voice of the oppressed and the marginalized during the apartheid era. Klaaste was also a recipient of many awards, including the prestigious Nat Nakasa Award for journalism. He was widely respected by journalists and activists alike, and his legacy continues to inspire young journalists in South Africa today.

Throughout his career, Aggrey Klaaste championed the importance of the media in promoting social justice, equality, and democracy. He believed that journalism played an integral role in giving a voice to the voiceless and holding those in power accountable. Klaaste was committed to providing objective and balanced reporting, and he believed in the power of dialogue to bring about change.

Aside from his work in journalism, Klaaste was also involved in many other initiatives aimed at promoting social change. He was a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and served as a board member of the Nelson Mandela Foundation. He also served on the board of trustees for the International Press Institute and was a member of the International Advisory Board of the International Center for Journalists.

Klaaste's impact on the South African media industry and society as a whole cannot be overstated. His dedication to journalism and social justice continues to inspire generations of journalists and activists, and his legacy serves as a reminder of the power of the media to effect change.

Read more about Aggrey Klaaste on Wikipedia »

Max Gluckman

Max Gluckman (January 26, 1911 Johannesburg-April 13, 1975) also known as Herman Max Gluckman was a South African scientist.

He was a social anthropologist who made significant contributions to the field of anthropology. Gluckman studied at the University of the Witwatersrand, where he earned a degree in law before moving on to study anthropology at Oxford University in the United Kingdom.

Gluckman is known for his work on the study of African tribal systems, particularly the political organization of the Zulu people. He argued that political institutions in Africa were not simply relics of a bygone era, but rather dynamic and adaptive systems that evolved in response to changing circumstances.

In addition to his work in anthropology, Gluckman was also a passionate advocate for racial justice and against apartheid in South Africa. He was active in various anti-apartheid organizations and was arrested several times for his political activities.

Gluckman was a prolific writer and his seminal works include "The Judicial Process Among the Barotse of Northern Rhodesia" (1955) and "Politics, Law, and Ritual in Tribal Society" (1965). His contributions to the field of anthropology were recognized with numerous awards, and he was elected a fellow of the British Academy in 1968.

Gluckman's work in anthropology was groundbreaking and his theories on political systems in Africa continue to be influential. He developed the concept of "rituals of rebellion," which describes how individuals and communities challenge the existing social order by creating rituals that subvert or challenge established power structures. He also developed the concept of "multi-tribal societies," which describes the complex social structures that exist in many African communities with multiple ethnic groups.

Gluckman had a profound impact beyond academia with his activism against apartheid. In the 1940s, he co-founded the anti-apartheid organization the Torch Commando and was involved with the African National Congress (ANC) in the 1950s. In 1964, Gluckman was among a group of activists who organized against the incarceration of Nelson Mandela on Robben Island.

Tragically, Gluckman passed away unexpectedly during a research trip to Zambia in 1975. His legacy continues to inspire and influence scholars and activists alike.

Read more about Max Gluckman on Wikipedia »

George Shepstone

George Shepstone (April 9, 1876 South Africa-July 3, 1940) was a South African personality.

He was a politician, journalist, and author who played a pivotal role in the politics and affairs of Natal, and later, South Africa. Shepstone was the son of Sir Theophilus Shepstone, one of the most prominent figures in the history of Natal, who served as Secretary for Native Affairs in the Colony of Natal.

Growing up in a politically active and influential family, George Shepstone became involved in politics himself, joining the Natal Provincial Council in 1910. He also worked as a journalist, writing for the Natal Witness, and later, the Natal Mercury.

Shepstone was a member of the South African Party and acted as both a Member of Parliament and Senator. He was also instrumental in negotiating the Union of South Africa, which brought together four British colonies to form the country we know today.

In addition to his political career, George Shepstone was also a prolific author, writing several books on the history and politics of South Africa. His most well-known work is probably the biography of his father, entitled "Life and Times of Sir Theophilus Shepstone".

George Shepstone passed away in 1940, leaving behind a legacy as a statesman, journalist, and author who made significant contributions to the history of South Africa.

In recognition of his contributions to South African politics, Shepstone was granted the Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1920. He continued to serve in politics until his death, being appointed as the Minister of Agriculture and Land Affairs in 1933.

Shepstone was a strong supporter of segregation and the racial policies of the time, and was criticized by some for his views. However, he remained a respected figure in South African politics, working to bring about positive change and development in the country.

Today, George Shepstone's legacy is remembered through the Shepstone Gardens in Johannesburg, which were established by his son, Sir Lionel Shepstone, in his honor. The gardens are a popular tourist attraction and serve as a testament to the contributions of the Shepstone family to the history and development of South Africa.

Read more about George Shepstone on Wikipedia »

Shunter Coen

Shunter Coen (October 14, 1902-April 5, 1967) was a South African personality.

He gained recognition as a radio and stage performer in the 1930s and 1940s, known for his comedic talent and distinctive voice. Coen was also an accomplished filmmaker, directing and producing several successful films in the 1950s and 1960s. He was widely regarded as a pioneer of South African cinema and was awarded the Order of Merit in recognition of his contributions to the arts. In addition to his artistic career, Coen was active in politics, advocating for greater representation for people of color in the government. Despite facing opposition and discrimination, he remained committed to social justice throughout his life. Today, Shunter Coen is remembered as a trailblazing figure in South African entertainment and a hero of the anti-apartheid movement.

Coen was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and grew up in a racially divided society where opportunities for people of color were limited. Despite these challenges, Coen pursued his passion for performance and quickly became one of the most sought-after entertainers of his time. His radio show, "The Shunter Coen Show," was a hit with audiences across the country, and he soon began performing in theaters and nightclubs.

In the 1950s, Coen turned his attention to filmmaking and produced several successful movies that explored themes of racial inequality and injustice. His most acclaimed film, "The Suitcase," tells the story of a young black man who is wrongly accused of stealing a suitcase and must navigate a corrupt and oppressive legal system to clear his name.

Coen's contributions to South African culture and society were not limited to his artistic endeavors. He was an outspoken advocate for civil rights and worked tirelessly to promote greater representation for people of color in government. He was a member of the African National Congress and was involved in many anti-apartheid protests and demonstrations.

Coen's legacy continues to inspire generations of South Africans who are committed to promoting social justice and equality. In 2018, a documentary film about his life and career, "Shunter Coen: The Voice of South Africa," was released to critical acclaim.

Read more about Shunter Coen on Wikipedia »

Herbert Hayton Castens

Herbert Hayton Castens (November 23, 1864 Eastern Cape-October 18, 1929 Fulham) was a South African personality.

He was a successful businessman and philanthropist, known for his contributions to the development of the diamond and gold industries in South Africa. Castens was also a prominent member of the Cape Town community, and served as a member of the Cape Provincial Council from 1906 to 1910. He was also involved in various charitable organizations, including the South African Red Cross Society and the Cape Peninsula Publicity Association. In 1912, he was appointed as a member of the Royal Commission on Civil Service in South Africa. Castens passed away in Fulham in 1929 at the age of 64.

During his lifetime, Herbert Hayton Castens made significant contributions to the economic and social development of South Africa. He was born on November 23, 1864 in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Castens started his business career as a clerk for De Beers diamond company, but later established his own company, H.H. Castens and Co., which became one of the leading diamond dealers in South Africa. He was also involved in the development of the gold mining industry in the Witwatersrand region.

In addition to his business pursuits, Castens was active in community and public service. He was a member of the Cape Provincial Council and served on several committees, including those on finance, agriculture, and education. His involvement in charitable organizations included serving as the Vice President of the South African Red Cross Society and Chairman of the Cape Peninsula Publicity Association.

Castens was recognized for his contributions to South Africa when he was appointed as a member of the Royal Commission on Civil Service in 1912. He was also awarded the title of Commandeur de l'Ordre de Leopold II by the Belgian government in recognition of his contributions to the Belgian Congo.

Herbert Hayton Castens died on October 18, 1929 in Fulham, England, at the age of 64. He was survived by his wife and five children. His legacy continues to be remembered through the many contributions he made to the economic, social and charitable developments of South Africa during his lifetime.

N. P. van Wyk Louw

N. P. van Wyk Louw (June 11, 1906 Sutherland-June 18, 1970 Johannesburg) was a South African poet and playwright.

He came from an intellectual family of Afrikaner origin, and his father was a clergyman. Van Wyk Louw studied at the University of Stellenbosch and later earned a Ph.D. from the University of Amsterdam. He was a professor of Afrikaans at the University of Witwatersrand and Stellenbosch University.

Van Wyk Louw was a prominent figure in Afrikaans literature, and his poetry is known for its intellectual depth and symbolism. His work often explored the cultural and historical identity of Afrikaner people in South Africa. Some of his notable works include "Raka," "Tristia," and "Die Halwe Kring" (The Half-Circle).

In addition to poetry, Van Wyk Louw also wrote plays and essays on literature and cultural issues. He was awarded the Hertzog Prize for literature twice, in 1936 and 1962. Today, he is regarded as one of the most important figures in modern Afrikaans literature.

Van Wyk Louw's literary career began in the 1920s when he became involved with "Die Brandwag," a cultural and political movement aimed at promoting Afrikaner nationalism. He later distanced himself from the movement due to its association with the National Party, which implemented the apartheid system in South Africa.

In addition to his literary pursuits, Van Wyk Louw was also involved in politics and served as a member of parliament for the United Party in the 1950s. However, he became disillusioned with politics and eventually focused solely on his writing.

Van Wyk Louw's influence on Afrikaans literature can still be felt today, and he is often studied in schools and universities. His work has been translated into several languages, including English, French, and German.

Read more about N. P. van Wyk Louw on Wikipedia »

Donald Gray

Donald Gray (March 3, 1914 Fort Beaufort, Eastern Cape-April 7, 1978 South Africa) a.k.a. Don Tidbury, Donald Elred Owermann Tidbury, Eldred Tidbury or Elred Owermann Tidbury was a South African actor and announcer. He had two children, Lorreta Gray and Deborah Gray.

Gray started his career in broadcasting in the mid-1930s and became known for his distinctive voice. He worked for several radio stations in South Africa, including the South African Broadcasting Corporation, where he was a presenter and producer. He later moved into acting and appeared in many South African films and television series. Some of his notable roles include the character of 'Jud Pierson' in the film adaptation of Cry, The Beloved Country and the television series The Villagers. Gray was also a director of the South African Academy for Arts and Science and was actively involved in promoting the arts in South Africa. He is remembered as one of the pioneers of South African broadcasting and an important figure in the country's entertainment industry.

Gray was also known for his work in theater and was a founding member of the Johannesburg Repertory Players. He acted in numerous productions, including Shakespeare's plays and modern works by South African playwright Athol Fugard. Gray also directed productions and was involved in adapting works for radio and television. In addition to his work in broadcasting and entertainment, Gray was also a political activist and advocate for the anti-apartheid movement. He was a member of the African National Congress and was arrested several times for his activism. Despite facing backlash for his political beliefs, Gray continued to use his voice and platform to advocate for South African unity and equality until his death in 1978.

Read more about Donald Gray on Wikipedia »

Phyllis Spira

Phyllis Spira (October 18, 1943 Johannesburg-March 11, 2008 Cape Town) was a South African ballet dancer.

She began her dance career in Johannesburg where she trained under the renowned ballet teacher Dulcie Howes. In 1963, she joined the Royal Ballet in London where she performed in various productions such as Swan Lake, Giselle, and The Sleeping Beauty. She also danced with the Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet in productions of Romeo and Juliet and The Rake's Progress.

After leaving the Royal Ballet in 1973, Spira returned to South Africa and became the principal dancer and later artistic director of the PACT Ballet Company. She was known for her strong technical abilities and expressive dance style.

In addition to her career as a dancer, Spira also became a respected ballet teacher and choreographer. She taught at various dance schools in South Africa and was a guest teacher at international dance schools in the United States and Europe.

Spira was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver in 2004 for her contribution to ballet and the performing arts in South Africa. She passed away in 2008 at the age of 64.

Spira also played a key role in promoting racial integration in South African ballet during the apartheid era. She advocated for equal opportunities for black dancers and mentored many young black dancers, including Veronica Paeper, who later became a prominent choreographer. Spira also founded the Ballet Theatre Afrikan, which aimed to provide training and performance opportunities for dancers of all races. Her efforts were recognized both nationally and internationally, and she received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2007 Arts & Culture Trust Awards. Spira's legacy continues to inspire future generations of South African dancers and has helped to shape the country's vibrant and diverse ballet scene today.

Read more about Phyllis Spira on Wikipedia »

Bob Snedden

Bob Snedden (March 20, 1867 Dunfermline-April 3, 1931 Liskeard) was a South African personality.

He was a mining entrepreneur who made his fortune in South Africa's gold and diamond mines. Originally from Scotland, Snedden migrated to South Africa in the late 1800s as a young man seeking his fortune. He quickly established himself as a savvy businessman and became one of the wealthiest men in the country. Snedden also had a keen interest in politics and was an active member of the South African parliament. In addition to his business and political pursuits, Snedden was a philanthropist who supported numerous charitable causes during his lifetime. He was known for his dedication to public service and his commitment to improving the lives of those less fortunate. Today, Snedden is remembered as an important figure in South African history and a symbol of the country's entrepreneurial spirit.

During his time in South Africa, Snedden was known for his commitment to social justice and workers' rights. He was a member of the Transvaal Chamber of Mines and used his position to advocate for fair compensation and working conditions for miners. Additionally, he played a key role in the development of the South African Railways, which was instrumental in facilitating the rapid growth of the mining industry.

Snedden was also a sports enthusiast and was involved in the development of several sporting clubs and events. He sponsored several football and cricket teams and was a founding member of the Johannesburg Country Club, which has since become a prominent social and sporting venue.

Despite his wealth and success, Snedden was known for his humble and unassuming demeanor. He was a devoted family man and was survived by his wife and two children.

Today, Snedden's legacy lives on through the charitable foundations and organizations that he supported during his lifetime. His contributions to South African society continue to be recognized and celebrated, and he remains an important figure in the country's history.

Read more about Bob Snedden on Wikipedia »

Hendrik Verwoerd

Hendrik Verwoerd (September 8, 1901 Amsterdam-September 6, 1966 Cape Town) was a South African politician.

Verwoerd was active in politics for most of his adult life and served as the Prime Minister of South Africa from 1958 until his death. He was a founding member of the National Party and is known for his role in implementing apartheid, which was a system of segregation and discrimination against people of color in South Africa. Despite being widely criticized for his policies, Verwoerd was seen by many as a staunch defender of the interests of the white South African population. During his time in power, he was also instrumental in South Africa's withdrawal from the Commonwealth and in the country's becoming a republic. His assassination in 1966 was carried out by a parliamentary messenger who disagreed with Verwoerd's political stance.

Verwoerd was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands, and moved to South Africa with his parents at the age of two. He received a doctorate in philosophy from Stellenbosch University and subsequently became a professor of applied psychology at the same institution. Verwoerd was a strong advocate of Afrikaner nationalism and believed in the superiority of the white race. He saw apartheid as a way to protect the interests of the white population in South Africa and to ensure their dominance over the country's black majority.

During his time in power, Verwoerd oversaw the forced removals of millions of black South Africans from their homes and the establishment of Bantustans, which were designated areas where black citizens were required to live. He also implemented policies that restricted the movement and economic opportunities of black South Africans and denied them basic rights and freedoms.

Despite his controversial legacy, Verwoerd remains a significant figure in South African history and his policies continue to impact the country today. His assassination was a dramatic moment in South African politics and led to increased tension and polarization in the country.

He died as a result of assassination.

Read more about Hendrik Verwoerd on Wikipedia »

Jan Hendrik Hofmeyr

Jan Hendrik Hofmeyr (July 4, 1845 Cape Town-October 11, 1909 Westminster) was a South African politician and journalist.

He was a member of the Cape Parliament and served as its leader from 1902 to 1908. He was also the editor of the Cape Times, a prominent newspaper in South Africa during his time. Hofmeyr was known for his advocacy for cultural and educational advancement for the Afrikaner people, and played a significant role in the establishment of the University of Stellenbosch. He was also involved in the formation of the South African Party, a political party that aimed to bridge the divide between English and Afrikaans speaking South Africans. Hofmeyr was instrumental in the negotiations that led to the formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910, which united the former British colonies of Cape Colony, Natal, Transvaal, and Orange Free State into one country.

Hofmeyr came from a prominent Afrikaner family that was deeply involved in South African politics. His father, Jan Carel Hofmeyr, was a member of the Cape Parliament and his brother, J.B.M. Hertzog, served as the Prime Minister of South Africa. Hofmeyr himself was a prominent figure in the Cape Colony and was highly respected by both English and Afrikaner communities for his moderation and conciliatory approach. He believed in the importance of education as a means of uplifting the Afrikaner people, and his efforts in this regard had a lasting impact on South African society.

Apart from his political and journalistic work, Hofmeyr was also a notable author and historian. He wrote extensively on South African history and culture, and was particularly interested in the history of the Dutch Settlers in the Cape Colony. His books were widely read and praised for their meticulous research and insightful analysis.

Hofmeyr's legacy as a political and cultural figure in South Africa continues to be celebrated by both English and Afrikaans communities. The Jan Hofmeyr memorial garden in Cape Town is named after him, as is the Jan Hofmeyr scholarship at the University of Cape Town. His contributions to education, culture, and politics in South Africa make him one of the most important figures in the country's history.

Read more about Jan Hendrik Hofmeyr on Wikipedia »

John James Clements

John James Clements (June 19, 1872 Middelburg, Eastern Cape-June 18, 1937 Newcastle) was a South African soldier.

He served as a soldier during the Boer War and joined the British Army after the war. Clements became the first South African-born soldier to reach the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the British Army. He fought in World War I and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his leadership in combat. After the war, Clements retired from the army and became a politician, serving as a member of parliament in South Africa. He was also an avid sportsman, participating in rugby, cricket, and horse racing.

Clements' military career began during the Second Boer War, where he initially served with the Boer forces against the British. However, he later changed sides and fought for the British Army, ultimately serving as a captain with the Imperial Light Horse. Following the war, he stayed in the army and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the British Army.

Clements quickly rose through the ranks, and by 1914, he was a lieutenant colonel in the 4th Battalion of the South Staffordshire Regiment. During World War I, Clements fought in several significant battles, including the Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Passchendaele. He was known for his bravery and leadership skills and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order in 1916.

After the war, Clements retired from the military and entered politics. He was elected as a Member of Parliament for the National Party in the Cape Province in 1921, and he served in that position until 1930. Clements was also a sports enthusiast and excelled in several sports, particularly in rugby, cricket, and horse racing.

Clements was married and had two sons. He passed away in Newcastle, South Africa, in 1937, a day before his 65th birthday. Many tributes were paid to him following his death, with some calling him a "South African hero" and others describing him as "one of the most distinguished soldiers ever produced by South Africa."

Read more about John James Clements on Wikipedia »

Alexis Preller

Alexis Preller (September 6, 1911 Pretoria-December 13, 1975 Pretoria) was a South African personality.

He was an artist who is best known for his large-scale, surrealist paintings. Preller studied art at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg and later in Paris, where he was strongly influenced by the work of Paul Cézanne and other French modernists. His paintings often incorporated African and ancient Greek motifs, as well as elements of the South African landscape. Preller is considered one of South Africa's most important modern artists and his work has been exhibited in major collections around the world. In addition to painting, he was also a prolific writer and collector of art and artifacts.

Preller's work was often infused with his love of mythology, spirituality, and philosophy. He was fascinated by the stories and beliefs of ancient civilizations, and this interest is evident in many of his pieces. His use of color and texture, as well as his unique approach to composition, set him apart from other artists of his time. He was known for working in a variety of mediums, including oil, ink, and gouache. Preller was a member of the New Group, a collective of artists in South Africa who sought to modernize the art scene in the country. Throughout his career, he received many accolades, including the Helgard Steyn Award for his contribution to the arts in South Africa. Today, his work continues to inspire and captivate art lovers around the world.

Read more about Alexis Preller on Wikipedia »

Jacobus Arnoldus Graaff

Jacobus Arnoldus Graaff (March 4, 1863 Villiersdorp-April 5, 1927 England) was a South African businessperson and politician.

He was the founder of the Graaff Fruit Company and played a significant role in the development of South Africa's fruit industry. Graaff also served as a Member of Parliament in the Cape Colony and later became a Senator in the Union of South Africa. He was known for his advocacy of land reform and his efforts to bridge the gap between black and white South Africans. Graaff's philanthropic work included the founding of the Graaff-Reinet Museum and the Graaff Trust which provided loans to small farmers. He was knighted in 1921 for his services to South Africa.

Graaff was born in Villiersdorp, in the Western Cape of South Africa, to a family of Dutch ancestry. He grew up on his family's fruit farm and developed a keen interest in agriculture from a young age. After completing his education, he started his own fruit company, the Graaff Fruit Company, which became one of the largest exporters of fruit in South Africa.

In addition to his business ventures, Graaff was involved in politics. He was elected as a Member of Parliament in the Cape Colony in 1904 and served until the formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910. In 1915, he was appointed to the Senate of the Union of South Africa, where he served until his death in 1927.

Throughout his political career, Graaff advocated for land reform and worked to improve the lives of black South Africans. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Industrial and Commercial Workers' Union (ICU), a trade union that represented primarily black workers.

Graaff's philanthropic work included the establishment of the Graaff-Reinet Museum, which houses a collection of historical artifacts related to the Eastern Cape of South Africa, and the Graaff Trust, which provided loans to small farmers to help them purchase land.

After his death in 1927, Graaff was remembered for his contributions to South Africa's fruit industry and his efforts to promote social and economic equality. His legacy continues to inspire people in South Africa and around the world.

Marike de Klerk

Marike de Klerk (November 17, 1937 Pretoria-December 4, 2001 Cape Town) also known as First lady Marike de Klerk was a South African personality. Her children are called Jan de Klerk, Susan de Klerk and Willem de Klerk.

Marike de Klerk was the wife of former South African president, F.W. de Klerk, who was responsible for the country's transition to democracy and the dismantling of apartheid. As First Lady, Marike was a prominent figure in South African society and was known for her dedication to social and humanitarian causes, especially those involving the welfare of children.

She was born in Pretoria, the daughter of a civil servant, and studied languages at the University of Pretoria. She worked as a translator and interpreter for the South African Department of Foreign Affairs before marrying F.W. de Klerk in 1960.

During her time as First Lady, Marike de Klerk was actively involved in a number of charitable organizations, including the National Council of Women and the Save the Children Fund. She was also a strong advocate for improving the lives of disadvantaged children in South Africa.

In 1998, Marike de Klerk was the victim of a shocking murder in her Cape Town home. She was found dead by her security guard, and it was later determined that she had been strangled by a former employee. Her death was widely mourned in South Africa and around the world, and her legacy as a compassionate and committed public figure continues to inspire many.

Following her tragic death, an annual award for exceptional work in children's welfare was established in Marike de Klerk's name. The Marike de Klerk Foundation, founded by her family, continues to support the causes she championed during her lifetime. In addition to her charitable work, Marike de Klerk was also a successful businesswoman, with interests in agriculture and property development. She was widely respected for her intelligence, grace, and dedication to making a positive impact in the world. Today, she is remembered as a courageous advocate for social justice and a role model for women in South Africa and beyond.

She died caused by assassination.

Read more about Marike de Klerk on Wikipedia »