Dave Eggers
American author and screenwriter
Born in 1970, this individual established a reputation as an author and screenwriter. The debut novel, 'A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius', received critical acclaim and won several awards. This individual also founded the publishing company McSweeney's, which became known for its innovative books and periodicals. In addition to literary contributions, work in screenwriting includes the adaptation of 'The Circle' into a feature film. Engaging in various philanthropic initiatives has also marked this individual's career.
Authored 'A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius'
Founded the publishing company McSweeney's
Wrote the screenplay for 'The Circle'
Other People Born on March 12th
Jane Pierce
15th First Lady of the United States
Born
March 12th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
1863 162 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 ReadingWilliam Buckland
Geologist; Dean of Westminster
Born
March 12th, 1784 241 years ago
Died
1856 169 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 ReadingIvari Padar
Former Minister of Finance, Estonia
Born
March 12th, 1965 60 years ago
Served as Minister of Finance and Minister of Agriculture. Was a member of the Estonian Social Democratic Party. Played a significant role in shaping financial policies and agricultural reforms during tenure. Contributed to the development of economic strategies that fostered growth and stability within Estonia.
Continue ReadingMasayoshi Ōhira
Japanese politician, Prime Minister
Born
March 12th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1980 45 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 68th Prime Minister of Japan from 1978 to 1979. Ōhira was a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and held various government positions prior to becoming Prime Minister, including Minister of Foreign Affairs. The tenure focused on economic issues and foreign relations during a period of economic growth in Japan. Ōhira passed away while in office, making his term notable for its brevity and the challenges faced during that time.
Continue ReadingUmirzak Shukeyev
Kazakh chairman of Samruk-Kazyna
Born
March 12th, 1964 61 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.
Continue ReadingWally Schirra
Astronaut and Apollo 7 commander
Born
March 12th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2007 18 years ago — 84 years old
A captain, pilot, and astronaut, this individual became a prominent figure in the early years of human spaceflight. Selected as one of the original seven astronauts for NASA's Project Mercury, he flew on Mercury-Atlas 8, performing six orbits of Earth in 1962. Later, he commanded the Apollo 7 mission in 1968, the first manned flight of the Apollo program, which tested crucial systems for future lunar missions. Throughout a distinguished career with NASA, he also contributed to the Gemini program and helped develop space shuttle technology.
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