Arkady Shevchenko

Ukrainian diplomat and defector

Arkady Shevchenko - Leaders & Politicians born 1930
Born

1930
96 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Ukraine

Links & References

Served as a high-ranking diplomat in the Soviet Union, specializing in international relations. Defected to the West in 1978, seeking asylum in the United States during the Cold War. Worked at the United Nations, advocating for Soviet policies while secretly reporting to Western intelligence agencies. Authored the book "Breaking with Moscow," providing insights into the inner workings of Soviet diplomacy and politics. Contributed to discussions on Eastern European affairs and served as a lecturer in diplomacy.

Defected to the United States in 1978

Worked at the United Nations

Authored 'Breaking with Moscow'

Other People Who Died on February 28th

Cosimo II de' Medici

Grand Duke of Tuscany
Born
May 12th, 1590 436 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1621 405 years ago — 30 years old

Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1609 until death in 1621. Played a significant role in the cultural and scientific advancements of the Italian Renaissance, supporting artists and scholars. Established the Accademia del Cimento, promoting experimental science. Oversaw the completion of the Pitti Palace and the expansion of the Boboli Gardens.

Continue Reading

Isak Penttala

Finnish politician, Member of Parliament
Born
February 8th, 1883 143 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1955 71 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a member of the Finnish Parliament, representing the Finnish People's Party. Engaged in political activities during a pivotal time in Finland's history, contributing to legislative discussions and national policy making. Played a role in the development of local governance and policies that shaped the region. His tenure highlighted the importance of representation for minority communities within the parliament.

Continue Reading

George Kennedy

American actor in 'Cool Hand Luke'
Born
February 18th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2016 10 years ago — 91 years old

An actor who gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. Played the role of Dragline in 'Cool Hand Luke', which showcased his acting abilities and made him a recognizable figure in cinema. Appeared in various films and television series throughout his career, earning accolades for his performances. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'Cool Hand Luke'. His career spanned several decades, with appearances in over 200 films and TV shows, contributing to the entertainment industry significantly.

Continue Reading

Daniel J. Boorstin

Historian and Librarian, Pulitzer Prize Winner
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2004 22 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent historian and librarian, contributed significantly to the understanding of American history and culture. Served as the Librarian of Congress from 1975 to 1987, overseeing vast literary resources. Authored a number of influential books that explored the nature of knowledge and perception in society, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning work 'The Discoverers.' Engaged in the academic community through teaching and lectures, promoting a deeper appreciation of historical narratives.

Continue Reading

Donald A. Glaser

Physicist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
September 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2013 13 years ago — 86 years old

Contributions to the field of physics are significant, particularly in the development of the bubble chamber. This invention changed the way subatomic particles were observed and studied. Glaser received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1960 for this work, which advanced experimental techniques in particle physics. Later, he explored biophysics and neurosciences, further diversifying his research pursuits. His academic career included a position at the University of California, Berkeley, where he influenced numerous students and researchers.

Continue Reading

Helmut Zacharias

Violinist and composer from Germany
Born
January 27th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2002 24 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Germany, this violinist and composer gained recognition for exceptional musical talent from an early age. He studied at the Berlin University of the Arts, eventually gaining acclaim for his innovative compositions and performances. Throughout his career, he collaborated with numerous orchestras and ensembles, showcasing a blend of classical and popular music styles. The artist also worked extensively in radio and television, making significant contributions to the music scene in Germany and beyond. His works spanned various genres and appealed to a wide audience, establishing a lasting legacy in the violin community.

Continue Reading