Ben Sandford
New Zealand skeleton racer and Olympian
Competed in skeleton racing at the elite level. Participated in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, achieving a notable ranking. Competed in multiple World Championships, securing a top ten finish on several occasions. Demonstrated consistent performance across a range of international events, representing New Zealand with distinction.
Competed in the 2006 Winter Olympics
Achieved top ten finishes at World Championships
Other People Born on March 12th
George Forbes
New Zealand Prime Minister
Born
March 12th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1947 79 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 22nd Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1930 to 1935. As a member of the Reform Party, held various ministerial positions prior to becoming Prime Minister, including Minister of Finance. Implemented key policies during the Great Depression to stabilize the economy. After leaving office, remained active in politics and served in various capacities, including the role of a prominent public figure in New Zealand.
Continue ReadingWilliam Buckland
Geologist; Dean of Westminster
Born
March 12th, 1784 242 years ago
Died
1856 170 years ago — 72 years old
An English geologist and paleontologist, this individual made significant contributions to the understanding of geology and fossil records. He served as the first people to describe a dinosaur's fossil, coining the term 'Dinosauria'. His work included the study of the geology of the English Lake District and the role of fossils in understanding Earth's history. As Dean of Westminster, engagement in educational initiatives also took place, along with contributions to religious and civic life.
Continue ReadingDavid Mellor
British politician and government minister
Born
March 12th, 1949 77 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2009 17 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a member of the Conservative Party in the UK. Held various ministerial roles in the 1990s, including Minister of State for Trade and Minister of State for the Home Office. Represented the constituency of Putney in Parliament from 1983 to 1997. Resigned from the government in 1992 after a personal scandal but continued to serve in Parliament until 1997. After leaving politics, transitioned to a career in media and business.
Continue ReadingJane Pierce
15th First Lady of the United States
Born
March 12th, 1806 220 years ago
Died
1863 163 years ago — 57 years old
Served as First Lady of the United States from 1853 to 1857 during the presidency of Franklin Pierce. Her tenure was marked by personal tragedy and political challenges. The loss of her son in a train accident influenced her public life. Focused on her family's well-being and often engaged in social issues of the time, she played a supportive role in her husband's political career. Her involvement in the role of First Lady included hosting events and being an example of 19th-century domesticity.
Continue ReadingFrederica of Baden
Queen consort of Sweden
Born
March 12th, 1781 245 years ago
Died
1826 200 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1781, Frederica became queen consort of Gustav IV Adolf of Sweden. She married the king in 1797, becoming an important figure in the royal court. Her tenure included significant political challenges, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars, when Sweden faced territorial losses. Frederica and Gustav IV had several children, and her role was pivotal in maintaining royal traditions during a tumultuous period in Swedish history. The monarchy faced difficulties, especially after Gustav IV's ousting in 1809, which led to the couple's separation for a time. Frederica spent the latter part of her life in exile, primarily in her native Baden.
Continue ReadingUmirzak Shukeyev
Kazakh chairman of Samruk-Kazyna
Born
March 12th, 1964 62 years ago
Born in 1964, held the position of chairman of Samruk-Kazyna, a sovereign wealth fund of Kazakhstan. Played a significant role in managing state assets and implemented various reforms aimed at economic growth. Oversaw initiatives in various sectors, including energy and transportation. Engagement in national and international investment projects marked the tenure.
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