Craig Breedlove
Race car driver and land speed record holder
Born
Died
2023
3 years ago — 86 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Achieved significant milestones in land speed racing. Set multiple world land speed records driving vehicles such as the Spirit of America and the blue Flame. First person to exceed 400 mph in a wheeled vehicle, reaching a speed of 408.6 mph in 1970. Continued to break his own records throughout the 1960s and 1970s, establishing a legacy in the sport of land speed racing.
First to exceed 400 mph in land speed
Set multiple world land speed records
Drove the Spirit of America and blue Flame
Other People Born on March 23rd
Nils-Aslak Valkeapää
Finnish singer and author of 'Siida'
Born
March 23rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2001 24 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in Sámi culture, contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of Sámi music and literature. Worked as a director and an author, focusing on the traditional and contemporary aspects of Sámi identity. Created works that highlight Sámi folklore and themes. The artistic expression incorporated in various forms, including performance and poetry, received attention both locally and internationally. Valkeapää's contributions emphasized the importance of cultural heritage and identity for the Sámi people.
Continue ReadingLudwig Minkus
Austrian composer of ballet music
Born
March 23rd, 1826 199 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1917 108 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Austria, contributed significantly to 19th-century ballet music. Composed a variety of works that became staples in ballet repertoire. Worked with prominent ballet companies, particularly in Russia. His music for ballets such as 'Don Quixote' and 'La Bayadère' achieved enduring popularity and are regularly performed worldwide. Minkus's compositions were characterized by their melodic richness and ability to complement dance performances effectively.
Continue ReadingJulius Reubke
Pianist and composer of symphonic works
Born
March 23rd, 1834 191 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1858 167 years ago — 24 years old
Born in Germany, a 19th-century pianist and composer contributed significantly to the realms of piano and orchestral music. Developed a reputation for compositions that showcased technical ability and emotional depth. Studied under Theodor Kirchner and later with Franz Liszt. His most celebrated works include the Symphony in C minor and various piano compositions. The Symphony reflects influences from both the Romantic and Classical periods and is noted for its innovative features. Despite a short life, the contributions to the development of piano literature and orchestral works have resonated through subsequent generations.
Continue ReadingBette Nesmith Graham
Inventor of Liquid Paper correction fluid
Born
March 23rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 56 years old
An American inventor developed a correction fluid called Liquid Paper in the 1950s. Initially created to assist in correcting typing errors during her time as a secretary, the product gained significant popularity in office environments. Founded a company to market Liquid Paper and successfully expanded distribution. The product became a staple for typists and writers, leading to widespread use in schools and businesses. The success of Liquid Paper contributed to her financial independence and established a legacy in office supplies.
Continue ReadingKyrie Irving
Professional basketball player
Born
March 23rd, 1992 33 years ago
Born in 1992, this basketball player gained prominence in the NBA as a guard. Drafted first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2011, he won an NBA Championship in 2016. He played a key role in the Cavaliers' historic comeback in the Finals against the Golden State Warriors by hitting the game-winning shot in Game 7. After his tenure with the Cavaliers, he played for the Boston Celtics and later joined the Brooklyn Nets. Throughout his career, he was recognized for his exceptional ball-handling skills and scoring ability, earning multiple selections to the NBA All-Star Game.
Continue ReadingWalter Rodney
Guyanese historian and activist
Born
March 23rd, 1942 83 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1980 45 years ago — 38 years old
An influential historian, scholar, and activist contributed significantly to the understanding of Caribbean history and colonialism. Authored the book "How Europe Underdeveloped Africa," which critically examined the impact of European colonialism on African economies. Rodney's activism included mobilizing for worker rights and pan-African unity. His political involvement led to his expulsion from Guyana in 1968 due to his opposition to the government. Later, he continued his academic and political work in Jamaica and other countries, advocating for social justice and historical awareness.
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