Arlen Specter
American politician and attorney
A prominent lawyer and politician, spent over 30 years as a United States Senator from Pennsylvania. Served as a Republican and later as a Democrat, contributing to significant legislative efforts, particularly in areas such as judicial nominations, health care, and civil rights. Also took part in landmark investigations, including the Warren Commission's inquiry into President John F. Kennedy's assassination. Was a key voice in various Senate committees, influencing policies on national security, justice, and more.
Served as United States Senator from Pennsylvania
Participated in the Warren Commission
Instrumental in health care legislation
Other People Born on February 12th
Gucci Mane
American rapper with influential mixtapes
Born
February 12th, 1980 45 years ago
A prominent figure in hip hop, contributed significantly to the genre through a series of influential mixtapes and albums. Gained recognition with the release of 'Trap House' in 2005, followed by 'Hard to Kill' and 'The State vs. Radric Davis'. Established the record label 1017 Records, promoting emerging artists. His style blends Southern rap with a distinctive delivery, influencing numerous artists and shaping trap music. Overcame legal challenges and personal struggles, leading to a resurgence in his career with collaborations and projects like 'Everybody Looking' and 'Evil Genius'.
Continue ReadingGianni Romme
Speed Skater, Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
February 12th, 1973 52 years ago
Born in the Netherlands, this speed skater specialized in distance races. Achievements include winning multiple World Championships and Olympic medals. Secured a gold medal in the 5000 meters at the 1998 Winter Olympics and a silver medal in the 10,000 meters. Contributed to his team's victory in the 1999 World Team Championships, further establishing a strong presence in the sport.
Continue ReadingRay Manzarek
Keyboardist and co-founder of The Doors
Born
February 12th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent keyboardist and producer, contributed significantly to rock music as a co-founder of the band The Doors. Instrumental in shaping the sound of the band with distinctive keyboard melodies and innovative use of the organ. Served as the band's creative force alongside its iconic frontman. Played a key role in producing several of the band's albums and supporting the distinctive blend of rock, blues, and psychedelia that characterized their work. Frequent collaborator with other artists throughout his career, exploring various musical genres.
Continue ReadingMike Posner
Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 12th, 1988 37 years ago
Started his career releasing mixtapes and gained significant attention with the single 'Cooler Than Me' in 2010. The debut album '31 Minutes to Takeoff' featured hits like 'Please Don't Go' and showcased a mix of pop and electronic influences. Later, produced tracks for prominent artists and expanded work into production and songwriting. Achieved recognition for the song 'I Took a Pill in Ibiza', which received widespread acclaim and commercial success, leading to a remix by a notable DJ. Has also undertaken projects involving personal reflection and poetry.
Continue ReadingChristina Ricci
American actress, known for Wednesday Addams
Born
February 12th, 1980 45 years ago
An American actress began her career in the early 1990s with roles in films such as 'The Addams Family' and 'Casper.' Gained critical acclaim for performance in 'Buffalo 66' and starred in 'Monster' alongside Charlize Theron. Transitioned to television with a leading role in the series 'Z: The Beginning of Everything,' portraying Zelda Fitzgerald. Founded a production company to develop independent films, and has been recognized for her contributions to the industry through various nominations and awards.
Continue ReadingJulian Schwinger
Theoretical physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
February 12th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1994 31 years ago — 76 years old
Contributed significantly to quantum field theory, specifically in the development of quantum electrodynamics. His work provided a theoretical framework for understanding particle interactions. Served as a professor at various institutions, including UCLA. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965, sharing the honor with Richard Feynman and Sin-Itiro Tomonaga for their contributions to the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 14th
Bruno Metsu
Football manager and coach of Senegal
Born
January 28th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2013 12 years ago — 59 years old
Started a career as a professional footballer, playing as a midfielder. Transitioned to coaching and took charge of various clubs in France. Achieved notable success as the national team manager of Senegal, leading the team to the quarter-finals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Guidance during this tournament marked a significant milestone in Senegalese football history.
Continue ReadingGart Westerhout
Astronomer and academic specializing in radio astronomy
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of radio astronomy and astrophysics. Worked extensively on the mapping of the Milky Way, particularly the distribution of hydrogen in the galaxy. Held academic positions, fostering research and education in astronomy. Published important research papers that advanced understanding of galactic structure and interstellar matter.
Continue ReadingJanet Nelson
British historian and medieval scholar
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2024 1 years ago — 82 years old
A historian specializing in the early Middle Ages, significant contributions were made to the understanding of the Carolingian Empire. Focused on historical narratives and the social structures of the period, extensive research was conducted on key figures such as Charlemagne. Authored several influential works that explored themes of power, politics, and society during the medieval period. Served in various academic roles and contributed to the scholarly community through teaching and writing.
Continue ReadingAshawna Hailey
Computer scientist and philanthropist
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2011 14 years ago — 62 years old
Pioneered research in computer science with a focus on artificial intelligence and algorithm design. Contributed to development of innovative technologies improving data processing systems. Engaged in philanthropic efforts aimed at enhancing educational opportunities in technology for underrepresented communities. Advocated for diversity in the tech industry through various initiatives and programs.
Continue ReadingDody Weston Thompson
Photographer and author of photography books
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent American photographer and writer, contributed significantly to the field of photography throughout her career. Worked extensively with 20th-century photographic techniques and was known for both fine art photography and her instructional literature. Published books on photography, such as 'The Creative Photographer', which provide insights into the artistic and technical aspects of image-making. Advocated for the teaching of photography and influenced numerous photographers through workshops and lectures.
Continue ReadingWally Bell
Baseball umpire and player
Born
1965 60 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2013 12 years ago — 48 years old
Played in Major League Baseball and served as an umpire from 1992 until 2013. Officiated games in the American League and later the combined MLB. Worked in numerous postseason games, including the 1997 World Series. Bell faced health challenges, being diagnosed with a heart condition, which ultimately affected his career. He continued to work in the league despite these issues, demonstrating dedication to the sport.
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