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
Nicolas Minassian
Race car driver and Le Mans competitor
Born
February 28th, 1973 53 years ago
A French race car driver, participated in numerous prestigious events including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Competed for various teams in the American Le Mans Series and European Le Mans Series, achieving multiple podium finishes. Also raced in the FIA GT Championship and has experience in Formula 3000. Noteworthy for endurance racing performances and contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingMikko Mäkelä
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
February 28th, 1965 61 years ago
A Finnish ice hockey player and coach, significant contributions occurred during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Played as a forward in the Finnish leagues and also had a stint in North America. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from professional play. Coached various teams in Finland, helping to develop young talent and further the sport within the country.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Elson
Dutch basketball player, NBA champion
Born
February 28th, 1976 50 years ago
Competed professionally as a basketball player with a career that included time in the NBA and various European leagues. Played for teams such as the Denver Nuggets and the San Antonio Spurs. Contributed to the Spurs' victory in the 2007 NBA Championship. Also represented the Netherlands at the international level in multiple competitions.
Continue ReadingRobert Sean Leonard
American actor in 'Dead Poets Society'
Born
February 28th, 1969 57 years ago
This individual achieved prominence as an actor in film, television, and theater. A significant role was in the film 'Dead Poets Society' where the portrayal of Neil Perry garnered attention. Additionally, involvement in the television series 'House' as Dr. James Wilson contributed to a well-regarded career. Theatrical performances in various productions helped establish a reputation in stage acting, showcasing versatility across different mediums.
Continue ReadingLee Carsley
Footballer and manager with Everton
Born
February 28th, 1974 52 years ago
Played as a midfielder and spent the majority of his playing career at clubs like Everton and Birmingham City. Served as a key player during his time at Everton, contributing to the team's successes in the Premier League. Transitioned into management, taking roles in the youth setup and eventually becoming the head coach of the England U21 team. Helped develop young talents and led the team in various international competitions, emphasizing tactical discipline and player development.
Continue ReadingDaniel Handler
Author of A Series of Unfortunate Events
Born
February 28th, 1970 56 years ago
An American author, musician, screenwriter, and producer. Gained prominence through a series of children's books featuring the Baudelaire orphans, published under the pen name Lemony Snicket. The series gained international recognition and adapted into a film and a television series. Also contributed to various literary works and screenwriting projects, collaborating on film and television adaptations of his stories.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Kai Setälä
Finnish physician and professor
Born
September 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2005 21 years ago — 91 years old
A Finnish physician and professor with a focus on internal medicine. Contributed significantly to the field of medicine through research and education. Served as a professor at the University of Helsinki, shaping the next generation of medical professionals. Published numerous articles in medical journals reflecting expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Played a crucial role in advancing medical practices in Finland.
Continue ReadingPerry Como
Singer and television host with hit songs
Born
May 18th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2001 25 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in American music and television, this individual rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. Known for smooth vocal delivery and relaxed style, contributed to the popularity of popular music and variety shows. Hosted 'The Perry Como Show' from 1955 to 1966, which showcased a range of performances and welcomed numerous guest stars. Recorded numerous hits, achieving substantial success on the Billboard charts, and earned multiple Grammy Awards throughout a long-lasting career.
Continue ReadingRobert Kerr
Sprinter and coach; Olympic athlete
Born
June 9th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1963 63 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Ireland and later moving to Canada, a prominent sprinter specialized in middle-distance events. Competed in the 1908 London Olympics, finishing fourth in the 800 meters. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from competition, contributing to the development of future athletes. Served as the head coach for Canada's Olympic track and field team, focusing on enhancing training techniques and competitive strategies for Canadian sprinters.
Continue ReadingJ. E. B. Stuart
American Confederate cavalry general
Born
February 6th, 1833 193 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1864 162 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 ReadingHussein Maziq
Libyan politician, Prime Minister
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2006 20 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of Libya during the 1960s. Played a key role in government administration and policy-making in post-independence Libya. Focused on modernization and economic development initiatives. His tenure witnessed significant political changes in the region. Held office from 1964 until 1965, contributing to the country's early governance structure after gaining independence.
Continue ReadingJózef Piłsudski
Polish field marshal and Prime Minister
Born
December 5th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1935 91 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1867, a prominent military and political leader in Poland. Played a key role in regaining Poland's independence in 1918 after over a century of partition. Served as the country's first Chief of State and later as Prime Minister. Instrumental in the Polish-Soviet War (1919-1921), leading to the decisive victory at the Battle of Warsaw. Established Poland's military and political framework during its formative years.
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