Brian Robertson
Scottish musician and songwriter
A Scottish musician and songwriter gained prominence as a guitarist for the rock band Thin Lizzy. Contributed to the classic albums 'Jailbreak' and 'Live and Dangerous'. Known for playing in the heavy metal band Motörhead during the early 1980s. Established a notable career through collaborative works with various artists.
Played guitar on Thin Lizzy's 'Jailbreak'
Guitarist for Motörhead in the early 1980s
Other People Born on February 12th
Joe Garagiola
Baseball Player and Sports Broadcaster
Born
February 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1946 to 1954, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Giants, and Chicago Cubs. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retirement, becoming a prominent commentator. Served as a host for the television game show 'The Today Show' along with baseball coverage on NBC. Authored a memoir titled 'Baseball is a Funny Game', reflecting on experiences in the sport.
Continue ReadingLorne Greene
Actor in Bonanza and Battlestar Galactica
Born
February 12th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1987 38 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1915, a Canadian-American actor gained prominence through roles in television and film. Best remembered for portraying Ben Cartwright in the long-running western television series Bonanza, which aired from 1959 to 1973. Later starred as Commander Adama in the science fiction series Battlestar Galactica, which debuted in 1978. The deep, resonant voice became an iconic feature, leading to additional narration work in various documentaries and programs. Contributed to the entertainment industry as a producer and director over a career spanning more than five decades.
Continue ReadingRoger J. Traynor
Chief Justice of California
Born
February 12th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1983 42 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 23rd Chief Justice of California from 1964 to 1970. Contributed to the legal framework of the state through several landmark rulings. Held a professorship in law at the University of California, Berkeley. Additionally, authored multiple influential opinions that shaped California law, particularly in the areas of torts and criminal justice.
Continue ReadingAbraham Lincoln
16th President of the United States
Born
February 12th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1865 160 years ago — 56 years old
Served as the 16th President of the United States from 1861 to 1865. Guided the nation through its Civil War, leading to the preservation of the Union. Issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which began the process of freedom for America's slaves. Delivered the Gettysburg Address in 1863, emphasizing national unity and the principles of liberty and equality. Assassinated in 1865, leaving a legacy as one of the most significant leaders in American history.
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 ReadingCharles Van Doren
American academic and quiz show contestant
Born
February 12th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2019 6 years ago — 93 years old
An academic and quiz show contestant gained national attention through participation in the television quiz show 'Twenty-One'. This role brought controversies surrounding quiz show ethics to light. During the 1950s, considerable public interest followed the revelations of the scripted nature of quiz shows. After the scandal, pursued a career in education and writing, focusing on topics related to literature and culture. Served as a professor at Columbia University and authored several works, contributing to discussions on the role of education in society.
Continue Reading