Denis Law
Scottish footballer, Ballon d'Or winner
A professional footballer recognized for exceptional skill and goal-scoring ability. Played primarily as a forward, spending a significant part of his career at Manchester United. Helped the club win the English league title and the European Cup in 1968. Achieved international acclaim as a member of the Scotland national team, earning over 50 caps. Received the Ballon d'Or award in 1964, honoring the best male football player in Europe.
Won the Ballon d'Or in 1964
Helped Manchester United win the 1968 European Cup
Scored over 200 goals for Manchester United
Other People Born on February 24th
Christian Kabasele
Belgian footballer, Premier League defender
Born
February 24th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, transitioned to Belgium at a young age. Developed skills in youth football systems and joined the professional ranks. Played as a central defender, featuring prominently in various leagues. Had a successful stint with Watford in the English Premier League, contributing to the team's defense during key matches. Participated in multiple international competitions representing Belgium at the senior level, showcasing talent on the international stage.
Continue ReadingTim Erixon
Ice Hockey Player, New York Rangers
Born
February 24th, 1991 34 years ago
Professional ice hockey player played in the NHL primarily as a defenseman. Drafted 23rd overall by the New York Rangers in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Erixon played for multiple teams, including the Calgary Flames and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Also spent time in European leagues, notably in Sweden, contributing to a successful career both in North America and Europe. Erixon represented Sweden in international competitions.
Continue ReadingKelly Craft
American diplomat and businesswoman
Born
February 24th, 1962 63 years ago
Served as the United States Ambassador to Canada from 2017 to 2019 and as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations from 2019 to 2021. Held various positions in the private sector, including leadership roles in several organizations. Engaged in political and diplomatic efforts, focusing on trade relations and international cooperation.
Continue ReadingDave Sands
Australian boxer, world champion
Born
February 24th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
1952 74 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1926, a professional boxer gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. Competed in the middleweight division and earned recognition for exceptional boxing skills. Achieved significant success in the boxing world, culminating in winning the World Middleweight Championship in 1952. Retired from boxing after a respected career, leaving a legacy in Australian sports history.
Continue ReadingDerek Wolfe
American football defensive end
Born
February 24th, 1990 35 years ago
Played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the Denver Broncos. Contributed to the Broncos' victory in Super Bowl 50. Joined the Baltimore Ravens after the Broncos. Notable for his strong presence on the defensive line and ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Wilson
American politician and state representative
Born
February 24th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
May 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1964, a prominent figure in politics with a focus on state governance. Held a position as a state representative for a significant period, contributing to legislative processes and community initiatives. Served on various committees that shaped local policies and addressed issues such as education and public safety. Advocated for economic development and healthcare reforms while in office.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 17th
Hermann Schlegel
Ornithologist and herpetologist
Born
June 10th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1884 142 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed to the fields of ornithology and herpetology in the 19th century. Mainly focused on the study of birds and reptiles, and published significant works on their classification and biology. Served as a curator at the Natural History Museum in Berlin, where substantial collections were researched and documented. Notable for contributions to the understanding of avian and reptilian species which influenced future studies in these areas.
Continue ReadingQi Jiguang
Chinese general and military strategist
Born
November 12th, 1528 497 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1588 438 years ago — 59 years old
Served as a general during the Ming dynasty, focusing on the defense of the southeastern coastal regions of China against Japanese pirates. Developed military tactics and organized local militias effectively. Authored significant military texts, including the 'Treatise on Military Affairs' and 'Essentials of Military Affairs', which are still studied for their insights into strategy and tactics.
Continue ReadingVirginia Mayo
American actress, singer, dancer
Born
November 30th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2005 21 years ago — 84 years old
An actress, singer, and dancer active in film and television from the 1940s to the 1980s. Gained prominence in classic films during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Starred in the film 'The Best Years of Our Lives' and opposite James Cagney in 'White Heat.' Appeared in various musicals and comedies, showcasing both dramatic and comedic talents. Transitioned to television in later years, maintaining a presence on various shows.
Continue ReadingFaten Hamama
Egyptian actress and producer
Born
May 27th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2015 11 years ago — 83 years old
Renowned for significant contributions to Egyptian cinema, a career spanned over six decades. Gained success in the golden age of Egyptian movies and collaborated with notable directors and actors. Featured in films such as "The Dancer and the Police" and "The Assassin". Transitioned into production, helping shape the industry in Egypt. Played a crucial role in the cultural landscape of the nation through film and television.
Continue ReadingPatrice Lumumba
Congolese politician, 1st Prime Minister
Born
July 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1961 65 years ago — 35 years old
A significant figure in the independence movement of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Helped lead the country to independence from Belgium in 1960, serving as its first Prime Minister. Oversaw a tumultuous period marked by regional violence and political rivalries. Advocated for national unity and social justice during his brief time in office. Assumed a key role in shaping the post-colonial landscape of the nation. Faced opposition from both internal factions and external powers. Assassinated in 1961 under controversial circumstances.
Continue ReadingCamilo José Cela
Spanish author, Nobel Prize winner
Born
May 11th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2002 24 years ago — 85 years old
An influential Spanish author and politician, this individual contributed significantly to literature during the 20th century. Esteemed for a unique style, which blended realism and experimentation, the literary work often addressed themes of human existence and societal challenges. Most recognized for the novel 'The Family of Pascual Duarte', which laid the groundwork for contemporary Spanish literature. Apart from literary endeavors, also undertook a role in politics, serving as a senator in the Spanish government. The recognition culminated in receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1989 for an oeuvre that encompassed novels, essays, and poetry. This person's legacy continues to influence Spanish literature and culture.
Continue Reading