Famous Birthdays on April 12

Fourth president of South Africa from 2009 to 2018, whose tenure was marked by numerous corruption scandals and economic decline. He was forced to resign and later sentenced to prison for contempt of court.

Spanish operatic soprano renowned for her performances in bel canto operas, particularly Bellini and Donizetti works, and considered one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century.

Ethereal vocalist and composer best known for her work with Dead Can Dance and film scores including Gladiator, for which she won a Golden Globe.

American actor and director (born 1956)

Japanese right-back who earned 69 caps for Japan and played professionally in France's Ligue 1 for Olympique de Marseille.

Vietnamese professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder and is considered one of Southeast Asia's most talented players. He has been a key player for the Vietnam national team and won the AFC U-23 Championship Golden Ball award in 2018.

Haitian polymath considered the father of Haitian literature in Creole, best known for creating the theatrical form 'spiralism' and writing over 40 works including novels, plays, and poetry.

Dutch economist who shared the first Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1969 for his development of econometric models.

Chess grandmaster who reached a peak world ranking of #2 and has been Azerbaijan's top-rated player for over a decade.

Vietnamese politician who served as Chairwoman of the National Assembly of Vietnam from 2016 to 2021, becoming the first woman to hold this position. She was a key figure in Vietnam's legislative branch and represented the country in international parliamentary forums.

Served as the 12th Emir of Kuwait from 1965 to 1977, leading the country through its early years of independence and oil wealth. His reign was characterized by significant infrastructure development and the establishment of Kuwait's welfare system.