Alexander Haig
American general and Secretary of State
Born
December 2nd, 1924
100 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2010
15 years ago — 85 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
A career military officer and politician, held the position of 59th United States Secretary of State from 1981 to 1982 under President Ronald Reagan. Participated in key Cold War events and emphasized a strong military posture. Served as the Supreme Allied Commander Europe of NATO from 1974 to 1979, playing a crucial role in military strategy and defense policies. Joined the White House staff as Chief of Staff, contributing to the management of top-level meetings and decisions. His tenure in government followed a distinguished military career, including service in the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
Served as 59th Secretary of State
Held position as Supreme Allied Commander Europe
Other People Born on December 2nd
Warren William
Gained prominence as an American actor in the early 20th century. Achieved notable recognition for performances in films such as 'The Wolf Man' and 'The Return of the Vampire'. His career spanned several decades, becoming a recognizable figure in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s. Demonstrated versatility across various genres, including drama and horror, solidifying a legacy in classic American cinema.
Continue ReadingAnn Patchett
An accomplished author, the body of work includes novels, essays, and memoirs. Major works include 'Bel Canto', which won the PEN/Faulkner Award, and 'State of Wonder', which received the Orange Prize for Fiction. The writing reflects themes of human connection and ethical dilemmas, often set against rich, diverse backgrounds. Contributions extend to literary community through co-founding Parnassus Books in Nashville, Tennessee.
Continue ReadingDarryl Kile
Played professional baseball as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1991 with the New York Mets and later played for the Colorado Rockies and St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved notable success with the Cardinals, including becoming a two-time All-Star and winning a Gold Glove Award. Helped the Cardinals reach the postseason multiple times, contributing significantly to the team's pitching rotation until his untimely passing in 2002.
Continue ReadingJoel Ward
A professional ice hockey player participated in the National Hockey League (NHL), predominantly with the Washington Capitals. Skilled as a right winger, contributed to team success through scoring and playmaking abilities. Played collegiate hockey at the University of Toronto before being signed by the Minnesota Wild. Achieved a career highlight with a memorable playoff performance while helping the Capitals advance deep into the postseason. Retired after several seasons in the NHL, becoming a respected figure within the hockey community.
Continue ReadingGary Sánchez
A professional baseball catcher, played in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily for the New York Yankees. Made his MLB debut in 2015 and quickly became recognized for exceptional power-hitting skills. Played a key role in the Yankees' lineup, contributing to multiple playoff appearances. In 2016, set a rookie record for home runs by a catcher, showcasing significant offensive talent in his early career. Also represented the Dominican Republic in international competitions.
Continue ReadingIndra Lal Roy
Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I. Became the first Indian fighter pilot and achieved notable success in aerial combat. His contributions included flying numerous combat missions, demonstrating exceptional skill and bravery. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his valor and accomplishments in the air.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 20th
Henry Percy
Held the title of 1st Earl of Northumberland and served as the Earl Marshal of England. Engaged in regional politics and influenced the management of northern England during the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Played a significant role in the conflicts between rival factions, including the Yorkists and Lancastrians. Participated in the Battle of Shrewsbury in 1403, leading his forces against King Henry IV. His lineage continued the Percys' prominence in English nobility.
Continue ReadingRobert Peary
An American admiral and explorer, played a significant role in Arctic exploration, leading multiple expeditions to the North Pole. In 1909, claimed to have reached the North Pole, although the validity of the claim has been debated. Conducted expeditions that contributed to the mapping and scientific understanding of the Arctic region. Also explored Greenland, gathering valuable data on its geography and culture.
Continue ReadingJoseph II
Ruled as Holy Roman Emperor from 1765 until death in 1790. Engaged in numerous administrative and social reforms aimed at modernizing the empire. Advocated for religious tolerance and the reduction of the power of the Catholic Church. Implemented policies that centralized governance and promoted education. His reign was characterized by conflicts with various territories and resistance to reforms from traditional structures.
Continue ReadingFerruccio Lamborghini
Established a luxury sports car manufacturer, Lamborghini, after initially producing tractors from surplus military materials. Following World War II, transitioned to manufacturing high-performance automobiles to compete with existing luxury brands. The Miura, released in 1966, is regarded as one of the first supercars and set a new benchmark in automotive design and performance. The company became well-known for combining advanced engineering and distinctive styling, which attracted a dedicated following among car enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingKing John of Denmark
Ruled as King of Denmark from 1481 to 1513 and King of Norway from 1483 to 1513. Oversaw a union between Denmark and Norway. Participated in conflicts to solidify his reign and faced internal power struggles. Sought to strengthen royal authority and promote stability during his reign. The Kalmar Union, a series of treaties, was a significant aspect of his rule, aiming to unite the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under a single monarch.
Continue ReadingChester W. Nimitz
Served as a Fleet Admiral in the United States Navy during World War II. Played a significant role in naval operations in the Pacific Theater, including the Battle of Midway. After the war, acted as Chief of Naval Operations, overseeing the expansion of the Navy during the early Cold War. Contributed to maritime strategy and modern naval policy.
Continue Reading