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
John Turturro
Actor and director in film and television
Born
February 28th, 1957 68 years ago
An American actor and director, contributions spanned over three decades in film and television. Gained recognition for performances in 'Barton Fink', 'Do the Right Thing', and the 'Transformers' series. Directed films such as 'Romance & Cigarettes' and 'Fading Gigolo'. Worked extensively with the Coen brothers, appearing in several of their projects, showcasing a range of characters from comedic to dramatic roles.
Continue ReadingWilliam Zorach
Sculptor and painter, created The Sailor
Born
February 28th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1966 59 years ago — 79 years old
A Lithuanian-American sculptor and painter, Zorach emigrated to the United States at a young age. Zorach studied at the National Academy of Design and became part of the American modernist movement. Zorach's work often featured bold forms and dynamic compositions. The Sailor, a prominent sculpture, exemplified his approach. In addition to sculptures, Zorach created paintings that reflected his love for the American landscape. Zorach's contributions to the art world garnered recognition, and he exhibited his work at major institutions, including the Carnegie Institute and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Continue ReadingPierre Fatou
French mathematician and astronomer
Born
February 28th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1929 96 years ago — 51 years old
Contributions to mathematics and astronomy include work on the theory of functions and studies in celestial mechanics. Developed the Fatou sets in complex analysis, which are significant in studying dynamical systems. Participated in research on the motion of planets and provided insights in the field of gravitational dynamics. Engaged in academic teaching and published various mathematical papers.
Continue ReadingRobert A. Roe
Soldier and U.S. Congressman
Born
February 28th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
Served in the Army during World War II, achieving the rank of captain. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1969, representing New Jersey for over two decades. Played a key role in various legislative efforts, particularly in transportation and veterans' affairs, while serving on important committees. Contributed to the formulation of policies that shaped the nation's infrastructure and support systems for military personnel.
Continue ReadingZeki 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 ReadingStephen Spender
English author and poet with literary acclaim
Born
February 28th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1995 30 years ago — 86 years old
An English author and poet, contributions spanned poetry, essays, and criticism. Worked in the mid-20th century and was associated with the Movement, a group of poets. The body of work includes exploration of themes such as social injustice and personal experience. Noteworthy publications include 'The Making of a Poem' and 'The Temple', which reflect deep engagement with the world and language. Spender also served in various editorial roles and was involved with organizations promoting poetry and literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Bedřich Smetana
Czech composer of classical music
Born
March 2nd, 1824 201 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1884 141 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1824, a Czech composer and pianist became a key figure in the development of Czech national music. His composition, 'The Bartered Bride,' gained international recognition for its incorporation of Czech folk themes. Smetana's work 'Má vlast' contains symphonic poems that celebrate the landscapes and history of Bohemia. Amidst his successful career, he also faced personal challenges, including hearing loss, which impacted his later compositions. His legacy endures through the influence on subsequent generations of composers in the classical genre.
Continue ReadingJohann Uz
German poet and influential judge
Born
October 3rd, 1720 305 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1796 229 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1720, this individual served as a judge while making significant contributions to German literature. The work included poetry that reflected the cultural and social contexts of 18th-century Germany. During his career, his writings gained attention for their depth and emotional resonance, appealing to a broad audience. The role as a judge complemented a commitment to justice and served as a reflection of the values expressed in his poetic works.
Continue ReadingJ. E. B. Stuart
American Confederate cavalry general
Born
February 6th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1864 161 years ago — 31 years old
Participated in the American Civil War as a Confederate cavalry general. Played a significant role in battles such as the Battle of Chancellorsville and the Battle of Gettysburg. Commanded the cavalry of the Army of Northern Virginia. Gained recognition for his daring cavalry raids, remarkably during the 1862 Maryland Campaign. Died from wounds sustained at the Battle of Yellow Tavern in 1864.
Continue ReadingThomas Wentworth
1st Earl of Strafford, English politician
Born
April 13th, 1593 432 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1641 384 years ago — 48 years old
Held the title of 1st Earl of Strafford and served as a prominent English soldier and politician during the 17th century. Played a key role as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing the governance and administration of Ireland at a tumultuous time. Implemented administrative reforms aimed at strengthening royal authority, often leading to friction with local leaders and the English Parliament. His policies contributed to significant political unrest, culminating in his arrest and execution amid the struggles between monarchy and Parliament.
Continue ReadingHeinie Manush
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
July 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1971 54 years ago — 69 years old
A professional baseball player and manager, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball from the 1920s to the 1940s. Played primarily as an outfielder for teams such as the Washington Senators, Detroit Tigers, and Boston Braves. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1964. Managed minor league teams following a successful playing career.
Continue ReadingLucas Achtschellinck
Belgian painter and educator
Born
January 16th, 1626 400 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1699 326 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1626, this individual became a significant figure in the art world through both painting and educational contributions. Specialized in the technique of grisaille, which imitates sculpture through painting, gained recognition for works that displayed mastery in depicting light and shadow. Held a prominent position in the educational sector, influencing a generation of artists and educators through detailed instruction in the aspects of painting and drawing.
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