Jan van Riebeeck

Jan van Riebeeck was a Dutch diplomat and explorer born in 1619 who is best known for founding a refreshment station at the Cape of Good Hope in 1652, which later grew into Cape Town, South Africa. His mission was to establish a supply point for ships traveling between Europe and Asia, aiding Dutch trade. Van Riebeeck's settlement marked the beginning of European colonization in South Africa, impacting local indigenous populations. He played a significant role in developing the early infrastructure of the Cape Colony and is considered a key figure in South African history.