Eva Cassidy
Singer known for 'Songbird' album
Born in 1963, a talented American singer and guitarist. Gained recognition posthumously for powerful vocal performances. Blended various musical genres including folk, jazz, and pop. Released the album 'Songbird' in 1998, which showcased unique interpretations of classic songs. Her renditions of 'Over the Rainbow' and 'Fields of Gold' contributed to a strong cult following. Although initially underappreciated during her lifetime, her music gained significant airplay and sales years after her death, leading to multiple posthumous awards and accolades.
Released the album 'Songbird' in 1998
Recorded 'Over the Rainbow' and 'Fields of Gold'
Other People Born on February 2nd
Howard Deering Johnson
Businessman and founder of Howard Johnson's
Born
February 2nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 75 years old
Founded the Howard Johnson's restaurant and hotel chain, creating a brand associated with comfort food and family dining in America. Established a distinctive franchise system that became influential in the hospitality industry. The first location opened in 1925 in Quincy, Massachusetts, expanding to over a thousand locations across the United States and Canada at its peak. Contributed to the popularization of roadside dining and lodging with consistent branding and menu offerings.
Continue ReadingJustin I
Byzantine Emperor, reformed the empire
Born
February 2nd, 450 1575 years ago
Died
August 1st, 527 1498 years ago — 77 years old
Ascended to the throne as the Byzantine emperor in 518. Implemented various reforms that strengthened the central authority of the empire. Oversaw a period of consolidation and stability during reign. Appointed Justinian I as co-emperor, laying the groundwork for future developments in law and governance. Died in 527, leaving a lasting legacy in the Byzantine tradition.
Continue ReadingCharles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord
French politician and Prime Minister
Born
February 2nd, 1754 271 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1838 187 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent French politician and diplomat, served as Prime Minister during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution and the subsequent Napoleonic Era. Played a pivotal role in the Congress of Vienna and was instrumental in shaping European diplomatic relations in the early 19th century. Held various significant positions under different regimes, including the Ancien Régime, the Revolutionary government, and both Napoleonic and Bourbon restorations. Renowned for his diplomatic skills and adaptability, he maneuvered through shifting political landscapes with acumen.
Continue ReadingGabriel Naudé
French librarian and scholar
Born
February 2nd, 1600 425 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1653 372 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent figure in the 17th century, contributed significantly to the field of library science and scholarship. Authored 'Advis pour dresser une bibliothèque', a work that provided guidelines on building and managing libraries. Served as the librarian to Cardinal Mazarin, where established notable collections and advanced library organization practices. Actively participated in the intellectual community of his time, influencing librarianship and research methodologies.
Continue ReadingJohnston McCulley
Author of Zorro stories
Born
February 2nd, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 75 years old
An American author and screenwriter, contributions include the creation of the character Zorro, first introduced in the 1919 story 'The Curse of Capistrano'. The character became a popular hero in various adaptations, including films, television series, and comics. The iconic masked vigilante, known for his swordsmanship and wit, captured the imagination of readers and viewers alike.
Continue ReadingSalem al-Hazmi
Terrorist and hijacker of Flight 77
Born
February 2nd, 1981 44 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 20 years old
Born in Saudi Arabia in 1981, engaged in the September 11 attacks. Hijacked American Airlines Flight 77, which was crashed into the Pentagon. Coordinated with other hijackers as part of a larger group involved in planned attacks on U.S. soil. Operated under the directive of terrorist organizations with goals to incite fear and promote their ideology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 2nd
Thomas Midgley Jr.
Chemist and engineer; inventor of leaded gasoline
Born
May 18th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1944 81 years ago — 55 years old
Contributed significantly to chemistry and engineering as an American chemist and engineer. Developed leaded gasoline in the 1920s, which was widely used as a fuel to reduce engine knocking. Later, invented chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) for refrigeration and air conditioning, which became widespread due to their efficiency. The environmental impacts of these inventions were recognized later, leading to significant changes in policies and practices regarding fuel and refrigerants.
Continue ReadingAtilio Stampone
Argentine pianist and composer
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2022 3 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent figure in Argentine music, contributed significantly to the tango genre as both a pianist and a composer. Stampone studied under notable instructors and later developed a unique style that blended traditional tango with contemporary elements. His compositions have been performed by various orchestras and artists, enhancing the popularity of tango music. In addition to performing in prestigious venues, Stampone received accolades for his contributions to music throughout his career until his passing in 2022.
Continue ReadingClyde King
Baseball player and manager with the Yankees
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2010 15 years ago — 86 years old
A professional baseball player and manager who played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played for the New York Yankees, Brooklyn Dodgers, and other teams. Managed the New York Yankees and the Kansas City Royals. In the front office, contributed to baseball operations for several teams, enhancing player development and talent evaluation.
Continue ReadingJames Thurber
Humorist and cartoonist, The New Yorker
Born
December 8th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1961 64 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent American humorist and cartoonist, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature through illustrations and essays. Worked as a staff writer for The New Yorker, where many of his cartoons and writings were published. His work often depicted the quirks of modern life and the absurdities of human behavior. Authored several books, with major titles including "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" and "My Life and Hard Times," both showcasing a unique blend of humor and insight.
Continue ReadingRobert Cormier
American author and journalist
Born
January 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2000 25 years ago — 75 years old
An author and journalist, contributions spanned various publications and genres. Wrote numerous novels aimed at young adults, addressing complex themes and issues. The novel "The Chocolate War" gained significant attention for its unflinching portrayal of school bullying and conformity. Cormier's writing style often included elements of realism, moral complexity, and the exploration of adolescent struggles. His work has been both praised and scrutinized for its candidness, leading to its inclusion in academic discussions.
Continue ReadingJenny Lind
Swedish soprano acclaimed for opera performances
Born
October 6th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1887 138 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Sweden, this celebrated soprano gained prominence in the 19th century for remarkable performances in opera, particularly in roles such as the title character in 'Lucia di Lammermoor'. Recognized for her exceptional vocal ability, she undertook extensive tours in Europe and America, captivating audiences with her distinct style and emotive interpretations. Additionally, she starred in various concerts and was dubbed the 'Swedish Nightingale' due to her immense talent and popularity.
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