Franciszek Blachnicki

Polish priest and founder of Focolare

Franciszek Blachnicki - Polish priest and founder of Focolare
Born

March 24th, 1921
103 years ago

Died

February 27th, 1987
38 years ago — 65 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Poland

Links & References

A Polish priest, established the Focolare movement which focused on promoting unity and ecumenism among different Christian denominations. Initiated various retreats and gatherings aimed at spiritual renewal. Worked extensively in youth work and contributed to the spiritual formation of many in Poland. His efforts emphasized community living and engagement in social issues. He also promoted the idea of living the Gospel through daily actions and relations.

Founded the Focolare movement

Promoted ecumenical dialogue

Organized retreats for spiritual renewal

Other People Born on March 24th

Scott Pruett

Race car driver with multiple championships
Born
March 24th, 1960 64 years ago

A professional race car driver with a career spanning several decades, competed in various disciplines including NASCAR and sports car racing. Achieved significant success in sports car events such as the American Le Mans Series and the Rolex Sports Car Series. Earned the distinction of being a three-time champion in the Rolex Sports Car Series. Additionally, participated in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing skill on an international level.

Continue Reading

Harry Houdini

Magician and escape artist
Born
March 24th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1926 98 years ago — 52 years old

Born in Hungary and later becoming a prominent figure in the American entertainment scene, gained recognition as a magician and escape artist. Specializing in sensational escape acts, performed high-profile stunts such as escaping from handcuffs, straitjackets, and water-filled containers. Often incorporated dramatic elements into acts, captivating audiences with his unparalleled skills and theatrical flair. Also ventured into film, appearing in movies like "The Master's Hand" and "Houdini". Promoted the art of magic and heavily involved in debunking fraudulent spiritualists.

Continue Reading

Stephan Eberharter

Austrian Alpine ski racer and Olympian
Born
March 24th, 1969 55 years ago

Austrian skier achieved success in alpine skiing events during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Competed in multiple World Cup seasons, securing numerous podium finishes. Won the overall World Cup title in 2001. Participated in the 1998 and 2002 Winter Olympics, earning a gold medal in the downhill event at the Salt Lake City Olympics in 2002. Recognized for powerful and precise skiing style, contributing to a successful career in international competitions.

Continue Reading

Billy Stewart

Rhythm and blues singer and pianist, 'Summertime'
Born
March 24th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1970 55 years ago — 32 years old

An American rhythm and blues singer and pianist, achieved popularity in the 1960s with a distinctive voice and innovative musical style. Rose to fame with the hit song 'Summertime' which showcased vocal improvisation and a unique arrangement. Released several successful singles and albums during a brief but notable career. Stewart's work contributed to the evolution of soul music, leaving a lasting influence on future generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Mike Vanderjagt

Football placekicker with highest accuracy
Born
March 24th, 1970 54 years ago

Born in 1970, Vanderjagt played as a placekicker in the National Football League (NFL) for several teams, most notably the Indianapolis Colts. He gained recognition for his exceptional kicking accuracy, setting an NFL record for most consecutive field goals made at one point in his career. Vanderjagt also played for the Dallas Cowboys and had a brief stint with the Toronto Argonauts in the Canadian Football League. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2003, where he solidified his reputation as one of the premier kickers of his time.

Continue Reading

Thomas Cushing

American politician, 1st Lt. Governor of MA
Born
March 24th, 1725 299 years ago
Died
1788 237 years ago — 63 years old

Cushing served as an American lawyer and politician during the 18th century. He held the position of 1st Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts from 1780 to 1785, playing a significant role in the early governance of the state following the American Revolution. Cushing was also active in Massachusetts politics prior to his tenure as Lieutenant Governor, contributing to the political landscape during a formative time in American history. He was involved in the drafting of the state's constitution in 1780 and practiced law, establishing a legal foundation for the governance of Massachusetts.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 27th

Kostis Palamas

Greek poet and playwright of 'The Kiss'
Born
January 13th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1943 82 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1859, this individual contributed significantly to Greek literature through poetry and drama. His work often explored themes of national identity and cultural issues. He served as a director of the Greek National Theatre and was involved in the promotion of modern Greek literature. His most celebrated poem, 'The Kiss' (Το Φιλί), is noteworthy for its depth and emotional resonance. The poet also played a crucial role in the establishment of the modern Greek literary tradition, influencing generations of writers and thinkers.

Continue Reading

Schofield Haigh

Cricketer and Umpire, Test Match Umpire
Born
March 19th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1921 104 years ago — 49 years old

Played first-class cricket for Yorkshire from 1883 to 1904, participating in 406 matches. Contributed to Yorkshire's successful campaigns, securing the County Championship title multiple times. Transitioned to officiating matches as a Test umpire from 1901 to 1906, overseeing numerous important games, including the Ashes series. Had a significant role in the development of cricket officiating in England.

Continue Reading

Charles Paulet

1st Duke of Bolton, English politician
Born
1625 400 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1699 326 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 1st Duke of Bolton and held significant political roles in England during the late 17th century. Appointed as Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, managed local governance and represented the interests of the monarchy in the region. His tenure included support for the Whig party and active participation in key political matters of the time.

Continue Reading

Marius Barbeau

Canadian ethnographer and academic
Born
March 5th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1969 56 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to Canadian ethnography and folklore studies. Conducted extensive fieldwork among Indigenous peoples in Canada, documenting languages, cultures, and traditions. Served as a professor at the University of Ottawa and published numerous works that remain influential in the fields of anthropology and ethnology. His research provided insights into the Indigenous oral histories and practices, contributing to a broader understanding of Canadian heritage.

Continue Reading

Leonard Nimoy

American actor and director, Star Trek
Born
March 26th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old

An American actor and director, played the character Spock in the television series 'Star Trek' and its subsequent films. Nimoy also directed several films including 'Star Trek III: The Search for Spock' and 'Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home'. He contributed to the arts as a photographer and author, publishing several books. Additionally, Nimoy lent his voice to various projects, including the animated series 'Transformers'. His distinctive portrayal of Spock established a cultural icon associated with logic and emotional restraint.

Continue Reading

Aaron Allston

Game designer and author
Born
December 8th, 1960 64 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 53 years old

Worked primarily in the gaming industry and science fiction literature. Contributed to role-playing games and created content for popular franchises, including 'Star Wars.' Authored several novels and game supplements, merging storytelling with gameplay mechanics. Helped design video games, including 'Star Wars: X-Wing' and its sequels, which became influential in the genre. Continued to produce content until death in 2014.

Continue Reading