Bubba Smith
American football player and actor
A football player achieved prominence as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL), notably playing for the Baltimore Colts and the Oakland Raiders. Helped the Colts secure a victory in Super Bowl V. Transitioned to acting, becoming recognized for roles in the television series 'Police Academy' and 'The NFL Today'. Contributed to sports commentary and public appearances.
Played for Baltimore Colts and Oakland Raiders
Won Super Bowl V with the Colts
Starred in 'Police Academy' series
Other People Born on February 28th
Mikko Mäkelä
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
February 28th, 1965 60 years ago
A Finnish ice hockey player and coach, significant contributions occurred during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Played as a forward in the Finnish leagues and also had a stint in North America. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from professional play. Coached various teams in Finland, helping to develop young talent and further the sport within the country.
Continue ReadingClaudio Chiappucci
Professional Cyclist, Giro d'Italia Runner-Up
Born
February 28th, 1963 62 years ago
A cyclist from Italy achieved recognition in professional road cycling during the 1990s. Competed in numerous Grand Tours, including the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia. Won the prestigious Milan-San Remo classic in 1991. Excelled in mountain stages, gaining the nickname 'El Diablo' for his aggressive riding style. Chiappucci's most notable achievement was finishing second in the 1992 Giro d'Italia, a showcase of his endurance and climbing ability. Participated in over a decade of competitive racing, representing various professional teams.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Elson
Dutch basketball player, NBA champion
Born
February 28th, 1976 49 years ago
Competed professionally as a basketball player with a career that included time in the NBA and various European leagues. Played for teams such as the Denver Nuggets and the San Antonio Spurs. Contributed to the Spurs' victory in the 2007 NBA Championship. Also represented the Netherlands at the international level in multiple competitions.
Continue ReadingButch Leitzinger
Race Car Driver with Le Mans Success
Born
February 28th, 1969 56 years ago
A race car driver competed in various endurance racing events. Achievements include participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where multiple class victories were secured. In addition to Le Mans, involvement in American sports car racing led to notable performances in the American Le Mans Series and Grand-Am series. Achievements in these series contributed to a successful career across different racing formats.
Continue ReadingDaniel Handler
Author of A Series of Unfortunate Events
Born
February 28th, 1970 55 years ago
An American author, musician, screenwriter, and producer. Gained prominence through a series of children's books featuring the Baudelaire orphans, published under the pen name Lemony Snicket. The series gained international recognition and adapted into a film and a television series. Also contributed to various literary works and screenwriting projects, collaborating on film and television adaptations of his stories.
Continue ReadingMike Rucker
American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
February 28th, 1975 50 years ago
Played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) for the Carolina Panthers. Drafted in the second round of the 1999 NFL Draft. Contributed to the team's defense during the early 2000s, including the journey to Super Bowl XXXVIII. Retired with a reputation for consistency and performance on the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 3rd
Konstantin Rokossovsky
Soviet Union Marshal during WWII
Born
December 21st, 1896 129 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1968 57 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1896, a prominent military leader during World War II, served as a Marshal of the Soviet Union. Played a critical role in key battles such as the Siege of Stalingrad and the Battle of Kursk. Recognized for effective leadership and innovative strategies, which contributed to significant Soviet victories. After the war, held various positions in government and military, including defense minister in Poland. Received multiple awards for military service, contributing to his legacy in the Soviet Armed Forces.
Continue ReadingWilliam Bruce
Cricketer, Australian Test player
Born
1864 162 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1925 100 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent Australian cricketer, his career spanned from 1896 to 1908, representing Australia in Test matches. He played in 13 Test matches, contributing significantly as a batsman. Bruce was part of the pioneering Australian team that toured England in 1905, showcasing his skills against top international competition. His performance in domestic cricket also established him as a noteworthy player in the Australian first-class circuit. He was recognized for his strong batting techniques and contributed to the development of the sport in Australia during its formative years.
Continue ReadingIgnotus
Hungarian poet and author
Born
1869 157 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1949 76 years ago — 80 years old
A significant figure in Hungarian literature, contributed extensively to poetry and prose. Was an influential member of the literary scene during the early 20th century. Worked as a journalist and editor, shaping contemporary literary discourse. His writings often reflected societal and cultural themes relevant to Hungary.
Continue ReadingAnthonie Heinsius
Dutch lawyer and politician
Born
November 23rd, 1641 384 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1720 305 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1641, a prominent lawyer and politician in the Netherlands, played a crucial role in the political landscape during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Served as Grand Pensionary of Holland from 1702 to 1720, overseeing significant political affairs. Involved in the formation of alliances and treaties during the War of the Spanish Succession, contributing to Dutch influence in European politics. Engaged in various diplomatic negotiations, solidifying the Republic's position in international relations.
Continue ReadingWilliam Lyne
Australian politician, 13th Premier of New South Wales
Born
April 6th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1913 112 years ago — 69 years old
Served as Premier of New South Wales from 1899 to 1904. Represented the Australian Labor Party and was involved in various legislative reforms during his tenure. Contributed to the establishment of the New South Wales Public Service and promoted infrastructure development, particularly in railways and education. Politically active for several decades, culminating in a significant role within the state government.
Continue ReadingJames II
King of Scotland
Born
1430 596 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1460 565 years ago — 30 years old
Ruled as king of Scotland from 1437 until death in 1460. Took the throne at a young age after the assassination of his father. Reign marked by efforts to strengthen royal authority and resolve conflicts with the nobility. Engaged in military campaigns against England, specifically the capture of Roxburgh Castle. Promoted economic development and the arts, contributing to the Renaissance in Scotland.
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