Frank Bridge
English viola player and composer
A prominent English viola player and composer, contributed significantly to early 20th-century music. Bridge studied at the Royal College of Music and became a renowned performer in London. His compositions include chamber works and orchestral pieces, and he played a crucial role in the development of English music. His work exhibits elements of impressionism and late romanticism and influenced later composers.
Composed 'Cello Sonata' and 'Viola Sonata'
Served as a mentor to Benjamin Britten
Other People Born on February 26th
Michael Bolton
Singer-songwriter and actor with Grammy wins
Born
February 26th, 1953 72 years ago
A successful singer-songwriter and actor with roots in the pop and R&B genres. Achieved fame in the late 1980s and 1990s with powerful ballads and a distinctive voice. Released numerous albums, many of which reached multi-platinum status. Recognized for a string of hits that included 'Time, Love and Tenderness' and 'How Am I Supposed to Live Without You.' Has received multiple Grammy Awards for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. Also contributed to various film soundtracks and has appeared in television shows as a guest.
Continue ReadingAhmet Davutoğlu
Turkish politician, 37th Prime Minister
Born
February 26th, 1959 66 years ago
A political scientist and academic, served as Prime Minister of Turkey from 2014 to 2016. Played a significant role in shaping foreign policy through 'zero problems with neighbors' and promoted cultural and economic reforms. Before the premiership, held the position of Foreign Minister where advancements in diplomatic relations with various countries were initiated. Transitioned to leadership of the Justice and Development Party in 2014, succeeding Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Continue ReadingJosé Policarpo
Portuguese cardinal and church leader
Born
February 26th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1961, contributed significantly to the Catholic Church in Portugal. Served as the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon from 1998 to 2013. Participated in the Papal conclaves of 2005 and 2013, which elected Popes Benedict XVI and Francis respectively. Involved in various church initiatives, promoting interfaith dialogue and social justice.
Continue ReadingSusan Helms
American astronaut and engineer
Born
February 26th, 1958 67 years ago
A general in the United States Air Force, an engineer, and an astronaut with NASA. Participated in six spaceflights during a career that spanned over two decades. Served as the commander of the International Space Station. Contributed to various space missions including the deployment of satellites and conducting research in microgravity. Played a significant role in improving technologies related to space exploration and habitation.
Continue ReadingElizabeth George
American author of crime novels
Born
February 26th, 1949 76 years ago
An American author and educator, well-known for writing mystery novels featuring the character Inspector Lynley. The series began with the book 'A Great Deliverance' published in 1988 and has since grown to include multiple titles. Alongside her writing, an academic background in education has shaped her approach to storytelling, emphasizing character development and psychological depth. The novels often take place in the United Kingdom, reflecting a deep interest in British culture. Several of her works have been adapted into television series, broadening the reach of the stories beyond the literary world.
Continue ReadingJoe Mullen
Ice hockey player and coach, Hall of Famer
Born
February 26th, 1957 68 years ago
A professional ice hockey player and coach, Mullen played in the NHL for 16 seasons. A right winger, Mullen achieved significant success with the Calgary Flames, winning the Stanley Cup in 1989. Mullen also represented the United States in international competition, contributing to the team’s bronze medal at the 1996 World Cup of Hockey. After retiring as a player, Mullen transitioned into coaching, working primarily with the Pittsburgh Penguins in various assistant roles. His expertise and experience in the sport influenced many players.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 10th
Al-Mustansir Billah
Egyptian Caliph during Fatimid Period
Born
July 5th, 1029 996 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1094 931 years ago — 64 years old
Ascended to the caliphate during the Fatimid dynasty, serving as a spiritual and political leader in Egypt. The reign lasted from 1036 to 1094, marked by significant events in Islamic history. Focused on maintaining the authority of the Fatimid state amidst internal strife and external pressures, including conflicts with the Seljuks. Al-Mustansir's rule witnessed the flourishing of trade and scholarship in the region, contributing to cultural and intellectual advancements.
Continue ReadingSinclair Lewis
American Novelist and Nobel Prize Winner
Born
February 7th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1951 74 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent novelist and playwright, this individual became the first American to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1930. Best known for the critique of American society, the works explore themes of materialism and conformity. Notable works include 'Main Street', which provided a critical view of small-town life, and 'Babbitt', which examined the emptiness of middle-class life. The career spanned several decades, resulting in a significant literary legacy that influenced future generations.
Continue ReadingAli Fuat Cebesoy
Turkish General and Politician
Born
1882 143 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1968 57 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a prominent general during the Turkish War of Independence. Held the role of the 6th Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey from 1946 to 1948. Engaged in military tactics and strategies that shaped the modern Turkish state. Contributed to the establishment of the new Republic.
Continue ReadingLouis-Sébastien Le Nain de Tillemont
French priest and ecclesiastical historian
Born
November 30th, 1637 388 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1698 327 years ago — 60 years old
A French priest and historian, dedicated much of his life to the study of early Christianity and ecclesiastical history. The multi-volume work, Histoire ecclésiastique, documented the history of the Church from the time of the apostles to the end of the 7th century. This extensive historical account was notable for its critical approach and reliance on primary sources, contributing significantly to the field of church history. Lived in the 17th century, maintained a focus on providing accurate chronologies of events in early Christianity and the patristic period.
Continue ReadingEino Leino
Finnish poet and prominent journalist
Born
July 6th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1926 99 years ago — 47 years old
A Finnish poet and journalist, this individual played a significant role in Finnish literature during the early 20th century. His poetry often drew from Finnish folklore and nature, providing a voice for the national identity. Published works include collections such as 'Helkavirsiä' and 'Kalevala-musiikkia', which showcased lyrical depth and a strong connection to Finnish culture. As a journalist, work appeared in various newspapers, addressing social and political issues pertinent to the era. His contributions laid foundational literary elements in modern Finnish poetry, influencing many generations of writers.
Continue ReadingBuffalo Bill
American soldier and showman
Born
February 26th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1917 108 years ago — 70 years old
A soldier, buffalo hunter, and showman, gained fame for blending the Old West with entertainment. Created the Wild West show that featured sharpshooting and rodeo performances. The show toured across the United States and Europe, introducing audiences to cowboy culture and Native American traditions. Engaged in the military during the Indian Wars and earned recognition for his skills as a scout. Founded Buffalo Bill's Wild West, a spectacle that offered insight into frontier life and mythology.
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