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Master D.M.Lee | 7/5/2023
John Chilembwe - Malawi
John Chilembwe (circa 1871-1915) was a prominent figure in Malawian history and played a crucial role in the struggle against colonialism. Here are some interesting facts about John Chilembwe:
Early Life and Education: John Chilembwe was born in the village of Chiradzulu in what is now Malawi, then known as Nyasaland, around 1871. He received his early education in a mission school run by Scottish missionaries and later studied at a mission school in South Africa.
Ordination and Religious Work: Chilembwe became a Baptist minister and was ordained in the United States. He returned to Nyasaland in 1901 and established the Providence Industrial Mission, a school and church that aimed to provide education and improve the lives of Africans.
Rev John Chilembwe, Ida, and their child, National Archives of Malawi
Early Life and Education: John Chilembwe was born in the village of Chiradzulu in what is now Malawi, then known as Nyasaland, around 1871. He received his early education in a mission school run by Scottish missionaries and later studied at a mission school in South Africa.
Ordination and Religious Work: Chilembwe became a Baptist minister and was ordained in the United States. He returned to Nyasaland in 1901 and established the Providence Industrial Mission, a school and church that aimed to provide education and improve the lives of Africans.
View of the church of the Providence Industrial Mission in Mbombwe, Nyasaland, shortly after its capture by government troops (1915)
Advocate for Social Justice: Chilembwe was a vocal advocate for social justice and equal rights for Africans. He denounced the oppressive practices of the British colonial government, such as forced labor and racial discrimination. He actively campaigned against the harsh treatment of Africans by European settlers.
Nyasaland Rising of 1915: In 1915, Chilembwe led an armed rebellion against the British colonial authorities, known as the Nyasaland Rising or the Chilembwe Uprising. The uprising aimed to overthrow colonial rule and establish an independent African state. Although the rebellion was ultimately unsuccessful, it remains a significant event in the history of Malawi's struggle for independence.
Accomplices of Rev John Chilmbwe in the uprising of 1915 being led to their hanging.
John Chilembwe's courage, determination, and commitment to the liberation of his people make him an important figure in the history of Malawi and the wider struggle against colonialism in Africa. His legacy serves as a reminder of the enduring fight for justice, equality, and self-determination.
Le Corbusier - Switzerland
Le Corbusier, born Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris (1887-1965), was a Swiss-French architect, urban planner, designer, and writer who played a significant role in shaping modern architecture and urbanism. Here are a few key points about Le Corbusier and his contributions:
Architectural Style: Le Corbusier is known for his pioneering approach to architecture, which emphasized functionalism, rationality, and the use of modern materials such as reinforced concrete. He advocated for buildings that served the needs of their inhabitants and reflected the spirit of the machine age.
Le Corbusier Portrait
Five Points of Architecture: Le Corbusier developed the concept of the "Five Points of Architecture" as guiding principles for modern building design. These points included pilotis (elevated supports), an open plan, horizontal windows, a free façade, and a roof garden. These ideas were influential in the development of modernist architecture.
Urban Planning and the Radiant City: Le Corbusier was also deeply involved in urban planning. He proposed the concept of the "Radiant City," a vision for urban development that focused on high-rise buildings surrounded by open spaces. His ideas sought to address issues such as overcrowding, traffic congestion, and poor living conditions in cities.
Model of the Plan Voisin for Paris by Le Corbusier displayed at the Nouveau Esprit Pavilion (1925) - SiefkinDR
Iconic Buildings: Le Corbusier's most famous works include the Villa Savoye near Paris, the Unité d'Habitation in Marseille, and the Chandigarh Capitol Complex in India. These buildings exemplify his modernist principles and have become iconic symbols of 20th-century architecture.
The planned museum is set to be built in Poissy, home of Le Corbusier's famed Villa Savoye Valueyou via Wikimedia Commons under CC BY SA-3.0
Furniture Design: In addition to his architectural work, Le Corbusier also contributed to furniture design. He created a range of chairs, sofas, and other pieces of furniture that were characterized by clean lines, functionality, and the use of materials such as leather and chrome.
LC4 Chaise Longe designed by Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand Villa Savoye
Influence and Legacy: Le Corbusier's ideas and designs have had a profound impact on architecture and urban planning. His work helped shape the modernist movement and inspired generations of architects around the world. His writings, including "Towards a New Architecture," remain influential texts in architectural theory.
While Le Corbusier's work has been widely celebrated, it is important to note that he also faced criticism for his urban planning ideas, particularly regarding the scale and human experience in his large-scale projects. Nevertheless, his contributions to modern architecture continue to be studied and debated, reflecting his lasting influence on the field.
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