Abe Saperstein
Basketball coach and founder of the Globetrotters
Born
1902
124 years ago
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Played an instrumental role in popularizing basketball through the establishment of the Harlem Globetrotters. Founded the team in 1926, blending athletic skill with entertainment. Saperstein served as coach and promoter, leading the Globetrotters on tours that showcased their talents across the United States and internationally. Notably integrated humor and theatrics into performances, contributing to the global appeal of basketball. Saperstein's efforts also included fostering talent, helping numerous players achieve professional careers.
Founded the Harlem Globetrotters in 1926
Served as coach and promoter of the Globetrotters
Integrated entertainment with basketball
Helped popularize basketball worldwide
Other People Who Died on March 15th
Robert Clatworthy
English sculptor and educator.
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 87 years old
An English sculptor and educator contributed significantly to contemporary sculpture. Educated at the Royal College of Art, worked as a lecturer at various institutions including the University of Brighton. His sculptural works often explored themes of the human form and abstraction, leading to exhibitions across the UK. Participated in major exhibitions such as the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, showcasing pieces that reflected a unique artistic vision.
Continue ReadingCharles Harrelson
American murderer and hitman
Born
July 23rd, 1938 88 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2007 19 years ago — 68 years old
Involvement in organized crime occurred during the late 20th century. Accused of multiple murders, including the killing of a federal judge in 1979. Convicted in 1981 for the assassination of the judge, which gained significant media attention. Sentenced to life in prison for his crimes. Died in prison in 2007.
Continue ReadingSmiley Culture
English singer and DJ known for reggae
Born
1963 63 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2011 15 years ago — 48 years old
An English singer and DJ, prominent in the genre of reggae and reggae fusion. Best recognized for contributions to British reggae music, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. Achieved significant success with the single 'Nine to Five' released in 1984. The artist combined elements of DJing and singing, contributing to the evolution of the genre within the UK music scene. Smiley Culture's work addressed social issues alongside showcasing cultural influences from Jamaica. His career spanned over three decades and included a variety of performances and recordings.
Continue ReadingSarla Thakral
Pioneer female pilot in India
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2008 18 years ago — 94 years old
The first Indian woman to earn a pilot's license, achieved this milestone in 1936. Received training at the Lahore Flying Club and flew K. L. Malhotra's De Havilland Puss Moth. Maintained a passion for aviation throughout life and inspired future generations of women in aviation. Continued to contribute to the field even after her aviation career ended due to World War II.
Continue ReadingMike Porcaro
Bass player for Toto
Born
1955 71 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent bass player, contributed to the rock band Toto, which formed in 1977. Played on their hit albums, including 'Toto IV', which won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year in 1983. Joined the band in the late 1970s and remained with them until 2008. Participated in numerous tours and recordings, showcasing a distinct playing style that defined many of the band's classic tracks. Developed a reputation in the music industry for contributions to various projects beyond Toto, collaborating with a range of artists and musicians.
Continue ReadingJohan Jakob Nervander
Finnish poet and physicist
Born
February 23rd, 1805 221 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1848 178 years ago — 43 years old
Born in Finland, a notable figure in the early 19th century contributed to both literature and science. Wrote poetry that reflected the cultural context of the period and engaged with themes prevalent in Finnish society. Also studied physics and meteorology, contributing to the understanding of weather patterns in Finland. Worked at the University of Helsinki, where academic pursuits complemented literary interests, effectively merging both fields in significant ways.
Continue Reading