Francis Hughes
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born in 1956, a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, actively participated in the struggle for Northern Ireland's unification with the Republic of Ireland. Engaged in a hunger strike in 1981 in Maze Prison, demanding political status for IRA prisoners. The hunger strike lasted 59 days, ultimately leading to his death. His actions and sacrifice became emblematic of the wider conflict during this period.
Participated in the 1981 hunger strike
Member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army
Other People Born on February 28th
Zeki Rıza Sporel
Turkish footballer and top goal scorer
Born
February 28th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1969 56 years ago — 71 years old
Started playing professional football in the early 1920s. Primarily played as a forward for Beşiktaş JK and the Turkish national team. Achieved significant recognition as one of the top goal scorers in the history of Turkish football. Represented Turkey in international competitions, contributing to the development of the sport in the country. His career included playing in the first official Turkish championship.
Continue ReadingGavin MacLeod
Actor best known for 'The Love Boat'
Born
February 28th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2021 4 years ago — 90 years old
An actor, author, and Christian activist with a career spanning several decades engaged in both comedy and drama. Rose to prominence with the role of Merrit J. 'Mack' MacLeod on the television series 'The Love Boat'. Gained early recognition as Murray Slaughter on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Besides acting, authored several books centered on faith and motivation, participating in various Christian outreach programs. Engaged in public speaking and advocacy for issues relating to spirituality and community development.
Continue ReadingMario Andretti
Race car driver, Indy 500 champion
Born
February 28th, 1940 85 years ago
An accomplished racing driver, gained prominence in the world of motorsports. Competed in various racing series including Formula One, IndyCar, and NASCAR. Achieved significant success in IndyCar, winning the Indianapolis 500 in 1969. Secured the Formula One World Championship in 1978, marking a milestone in racing history.
Continue ReadingBrian Jones
English guitarist and founding member of The Rolling Stones
Born
February 28th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1969 56 years ago — 27 years old
A guitarist and songwriter, contributed significantly to the sound of The Rolling Stones during the 1960s. Co-founded the band in 1962 and played a key role in establishing their unique style, blending rock, blues, and pop. Instrumental in the creation of several classic tracks. Known for innovative use of various instruments beyond guitar. His complex personality and lifestyle led to tension within the band, and he left in 1969, shortly before his untimely death.
Continue ReadingAlexander Zickler
Footballer and manager with Bayern Munich
Born
February 28th, 1974 51 years ago
A footballer and manager, played primarily as a forward. Started career at VfB Leipzig before joining Bayern Munich, contributing to the club's success in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Scored critical goals during the Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League campaigns. Transitioned to management after retiring from professional play, taking on roles in youth development and coaching at various levels.
Continue ReadingPaul Krugman
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 28th, 1953 72 years ago
An economist and academic with a focus on international economics, trade theory, and macroeconomics. Wrote extensively, contributing to both academic journals and popular publications. Served as a professor at various institutions, including Princeton University. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2008 for analysis of trade patterns and location of economic activity. Engaged in public discourse through columns and commentary on economic policy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Agnes Forbes Blackadder
Scottish medical doctor and surgeon
Born
December 4th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1964 61 years ago — 88 years old
Graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a medical degree, becoming one of the first women to earn such a qualification in Scotland. Contributed to the field of medicine through various roles, including working in hospitals and offering medical education. Played a significant role in advancing healthcare for women and children, promoting the importance of female participation in medicine during a time when the profession was predominantly male. Established several healthcare initiatives aimed at improving community health.
Continue ReadingDavid Sanborn
Saxophonist and composer, 'Another Hand'
Born
July 30th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent American saxophonist and composer, significant contributions were made to the jazz genre. Emerged in the 1970s with a unique sound that blended jazz with pop and soul influences. Released numerous albums, achieving commercial success, with 'Another Hand' being a notable work. Collaborated with various artists across genres, including Paul Simon and David Bowie. Regular performer on television, known for appearances on 'Saturday Night Live' and 'The Late Show with David Letterman'.
Continue ReadingZeno Colò
Olympic alpine skier from Italy
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1993 32 years ago — 73 years old
Competed in alpine skiing at the 1952 Winter Olympics, representing Italy. Achieved significant success in the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup during the early 1950s, securing multiple podium finishes. Specialized in the downhill and giant slalom events. His competitive spirit and technical skill established a strong presence in the sport during his athletic career.
Continue ReadingH. R. Giger
Swiss surrealist painter and designer
Born
February 5th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
A Swiss painter, sculptor, and set designer, influential in the world of contemporary art and film. His work blended surrealism with biomechanical elements, culminating in the design of the iconic creature and landscapes in the film 'Alien.' Giger's unique aesthetic shaped not only cinema but also album covers and various forms of art installations. He won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects in 1980 for his contributions to 'Alien,' establishing a legacy as an innovator in visual design in the film industry.
Continue ReadingAlfonso de Portago
Race car driver and bobsledder
Born
October 11th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1957 68 years ago — 28 years old
Born in Spain in 1928, a prominent race car driver and bobsledder achieved notable recognition in motorsports. Competed in Formula One with Ferrari, making his debut at the 1956 French Grand Prix. Participated in the Mille Miglia, a famous road race, showcasing exceptional skill and bravery during a period of limited safety standards in racing. Tragically lost life during the 1957 Mille Miglia, marking a significant moment in racing history.
Continue ReadingSarat Pujari
Indian actor, director, and screenwriter
Born
August 8th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
An actor, director, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Indian cinema. Pujari worked in numerous films primarily in the Odia and Bengali languages. He directed multiple acclaimed films and also developed a reputation for his work in theater. Much of his career was spent focusing on regional cinema, where his storytelling and character portrayals achieved recognition among audiences. Notable for both performances and directorial efforts, he played a crucial role in promoting regional narratives and cultural themes through film.
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