François Arago
Mathematician and Prime Minister of France
Contributed significantly to mathematics, astronomy, and physics. Served as the 25th Prime Minister of France in 1848. Instrumental in the establishment of the Paris Academy of Sciences and advocated for the use of the metric system. Played a key role in the development of photography and the discovery of polarization of light.
Served as Prime Minister of France
Promoted the metric system
Contributed to the development of photography
Discovered the polarization of light
Other People Born on February 26th
Albert VI
Duke of Bavaria, military leader
Born
February 26th, 1584 441 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1666 359 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1584, served as Duke of Bavaria from 1623 until his death in 1632. Participated in the Thirty Years' War, aligning Bavaria with the Catholic League and engaging in numerous battles against Protestant forces. Under leadership, Bavaria strengthened its military and political position in the Holy Roman Empire. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power and expand territorial influence through strategic alliances.
Continue ReadingGarry Conille
Haitian Physician and Prime Minister
Born
February 26th, 1966 59 years ago
Served as the 14th Prime Minister of Haiti from 2011 to 2012. Focused on health care issues and was involved in the country's recovery efforts following the 2010 earthquake. Prior to political office, practiced medicine and worked in various health-related roles, contributing to improvements in public health infrastructure.
Continue ReadingVerne Gagne
Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
February 26th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent professional wrestler and trainer, contributed significantly to the wrestling industry. Gagne held the AWA World Heavyweight Championship several times, showcasing exceptional athleticism and skill. As a promoter, he established the American Wrestling Association in 1960, influencing the direction of professional wrestling in the United States. Transitioned from a successful amateur wrestling career, where he won a national championship during college. In later years, focused on training the next generation of wrestlers, mentoring many to stardom. Gagne's dedication to the sport earned him a place in various Halls of Fame, consolidating his legacy.
Continue ReadingHusband E. Kimmel
American admiral and Pearl Harbor commander
Born
February 26th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1968 57 years ago — 86 years old
Served as an admiral in the United States Navy, primarily during World War II. Commanded the U.S. Pacific Fleet during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Oversaw naval operations in the Pacific, contributing to strategic planning and execution of military actions. Faced significant scrutiny and criticism following the attack, which led to a controversial court of inquiry. Subsequently relieved of command and retired from active duty in 1942.
Continue ReadingNajwa Karam
Lebanese singer and music icon
Born
February 26th, 1966 59 years ago
Raised in a Lebanese family, this artist gained prominence in the Arabic music scene since the early 1990s. With a powerful voice and vibrant stage presence, she released numerous albums that topped charts across the Arab world. Blending traditional and modern styles, this singer became a significant figure in Arabic pop music. An extensive repertoire includes hit songs such as 'Ahebbik', 'Enta El Hayat', and 'Ma Fi Nour'. Concerts have attracted thousands of fans, showcasing a unique blend of emotion and cultural heritage. Each performance reflects the passion for music and connection with audiences.
Continue ReadingÉmile Coué
Psychologist known for autosuggestion
Born
February 26th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1926 99 years ago — 69 years old
A psychologist and pharmacist, contributed to the field of psychology through the development of the method of autosuggestion, emphasizing the role of the subconscious in personal empowerment and mental health. Established a successful practice in Nancy, France, where patients experienced positive results using the technique. Authored several books on the subject, including "Self-Mastery Through Conscious Autosuggestion". His work influenced both psychotherapy and self-help movements.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 2nd
Gene Autry
Singer and actor in Western films
Born
September 29th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old
Gained fame as a singer and actor, starring in numerous Western films and television series during the mid-20th century. Created a signature style that blended music with compelling storytelling. Became a cultural icon with the popularization of numerous country music songs. Established a successful career in entertainment and business, which included ownership of a Major League Baseball team.
Continue ReadingJamal Khashoggi
Saudi journalist and Washington Post columnist
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2018 7 years ago — 60 years old
A journalist and opinion writer, contributed extensively to the discourse on Middle Eastern politics. Served as the editor-in-chief of Al Watan, a Saudi Arabian newspaper, before going into self-imposed exile. Worked for major international media outlets, including The Washington Post, where analysis and criticism of the Saudi government were prominent themes. Advocated for freedom of expression and press rights. Circumstances surrounding death at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul garnered global attention and sparked debates about human rights in Saudi Arabia.
Continue ReadingHeinz G. Konsalik
German journalist and author of novels
Born
May 28th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1999 26 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Germany in 1921, this individual became a prominent journalist and novelist, contributing significantly to literature and media. Several works received widespread acclaim, engaging readers with compelling narratives. Throughout the career, a prolific output of novels and articles reflected the social and political climate of the times. Themes often revolved around the human condition and societal issues, resonating with a broad audience and leading to translations in multiple languages. The extensive body of work included notable titles that highlighted the experiences of common people, as well as more complex characters navigating intricate societal norms. The individual remained active in writing and journalism until later years.
Continue ReadingPaul Halmos
Mathematician & author of 'Naive Set Theory'
Born
March 3rd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2006 19 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Hungary, a mathematician emigrated to the United States where significant contributions to mathematical logic, statistics, and functional analysis were made. Authored several influential texts, including 'Naive Set Theory', which provided accessible insights into the foundations of mathematics. Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Illinois and the University of Michigan. His work in mathematical writing emphasized clarity and precision, influencing generations of mathematicians.
Continue ReadingAugust Wilson
American playwright of notable plays
Born
April 27th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2005 20 years ago — 60 years old
An influential author and playwright, this individual focused on the African American experience across a series of ten plays, collectively titled 'The Pittsburgh Cycle.' The works explore themes of race, identity, and community, often set in different decades of the 20th century. Major plays include 'Fences,' which won a Tony Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and 'The Piano Lesson,' which also secured the Pulitzer Prize. Contributions to American theater have been recognized for their profound cultural relevance and textual richness.
Continue ReadingFrancis Lee
English footballer and businessman
Born
April 29th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2023 2 years ago — 79 years old
A former professional footballer, played as a forward, primarily for Manchester City and Derby County. Achieved significant success in club football, contributing to Manchester City's FA Cup victory in 1969 and winning the Football League title in 1972 with Derby County. Transitioned into business after retiring from professional play, involving himself in various business ventures. Served as a director at several companies post-retirement.
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