Frank Buckles
American soldier and World War I veteran
Enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 16 during World War I. Served as an ambulance driver with the 1st Fort Riley Casual Detachment. Participated in battles including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Completed military service in 1919, becoming the last recognized American veteran of World War I. Advocated for veterans' issues later in life. Served in World War II as a civilian director of a shipyard in the Pacific. Passed away in 2011, leaving a legacy as a link to a pivotal time in history.
Last recognized American World War I veteran
Served as an ambulance driver in WWI
Advocated for veterans' issues
Other People Born on February 1st
Ekaterina Maximova
Ballerina and choreographer from Russia
Born
February 1st, 1939 87 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2009 17 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent ballerina and choreographer, she achieved acclaim for performances with the Bolshoi Ballet. She trained at the Moscow Choreographic School and joined the Bolshoi in 1956. Her repertoire included various classical and contemporary pieces. Participation in international ballet competitions garnered recognition. Contributions to ballet as a choreographer expanded the art form, bringing innovative interpretations to classic works. Her work with famed choreographers enriched ballet's evolution.
Continue ReadingCharles Nordhoff
Pilot and author of adventure novels
Born
February 1st, 1887 139 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1947 79 years ago — 60 years old
Born in England and later becoming a naturalized American, made significant contributions to literature and aviation. Served as a pilot during World War I. Authored several adventure novels, gaining popularity in the early 20th century. Collaborated with James Norman Hall on the literary work that inspired the film and musical adaptation 'Mutiny on the Bounty'. The writings often reflected a strong sense of adventure and the spirit of the sea, capturing readers' imaginations.
Continue ReadingEiji Sawamura
Japanese baseball player and soldier
Born
February 1st, 1917 109 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1944 81 years ago — 27 years old
Born in 1917, a professional baseball pitcher played for the Tokyo Kyojin in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball league. Achieved significant recognition for exceptional talent on the mound, showcasing impressive fastball velocity and control. Sawamura's career, however, was interrupted by military service during World War II, leading to his early retirement from baseball. He is remembered for his contributions to Japan's sport despite his life being cut short.
Continue ReadingElisabeth Sladen
Actress known for Doctor Who
Born
February 1st, 1946 80 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2011 15 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1946, this English actress gained widespread recognition for the role of Sarah Jane Smith in the long-running science fiction series Doctor Who. Debuting in 1973, the character became a companion to the Doctor and remained a fan favorite for years. The actress reprised her role in spinoff series, including The Sarah Jane Adventures, which added depth to the character's story beyond her time in the main series.
Continue ReadingBoris Yeltsin
Russian politician, 1st President of Russia
Born
February 1st, 1931 95 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2007 19 years ago — 76 years old
Became the first President of Russia after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. Served from 1991 to 1999, implementing major economic reforms that transitioned the country from a planned economy to a market economy. Played a key role in the political landscape during the turbulent 1990s, overseeing significant events such as the constitutional crisis in 1993. Resignation on December 31, 1999, paved the way for the presidency of Vladimir Putin.
Continue ReadingAlfréd Hajós
Hungarian swimmer and architect
Born
February 1st, 1878 148 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 77 years old
Swimmer and architect contributed significantly to both fields. In swimming, achieved success as the first Olympic champion in swimming, winning two gold medals at the 1896 Summer Olympics in Athens. As an architect, designed notable buildings including the Grand Hotel Aranybika, showcasing a blend of historic and modern architectural styles. Hajós's dual career exemplified excellence in both sports and architectural design.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 27th
Necmettin Erbakan
Turkish politician and Prime Minister
Born
October 29th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2011 15 years ago — 84 years old
An engineer and politician, served as the 32nd Prime Minister of Turkey from 1996 to 1997. Founded the Welfare Party, which became a significant political force in Turkey during the 1990s. Promoted an Islamic agenda and aimed to address socio-economic issues through various reforms. Was a key figure in Turkish political history, advocating for religious freedoms and social justice. His political career ended after the military ousted his government in 1997, which is often referred to as a 'post-modern coup'. Remained active in politics until his later years, continuing to influence the political landscape of Turkey.
Continue ReadingFranciszek Blachnicki
Polish priest and founder of Focolare
Born
March 24th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1987 39 years ago — 65 years old
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.
Continue ReadingAdolfo Zaldívar
Chilean lawyer and politician
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2013 13 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a prominent figure in Chilean politics, having held the role of senator from 2002 to 2010. Contributed to legislative reforms and was a member of the Christian Democratic Party, participating actively in political discourse during a transformative period in Chile's history. His tenure included engagement in various social issues and opposition to certain government policies. Ran for the presidency of Chile in 2005, emphasizing democratization and social justice. His legal background informed his approach to governance and political leadership.
Continue ReadingFred Rogers
Television host of 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood
Born
March 20th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2003 23 years ago — 74 years old
An American minister and television host created and hosted the children's television series 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood' for over three decades. The show focused on themes of kindness, emotional intelligence, and understanding. With a gentle demeanor and thoughtful discussions, addressed children's feelings, fears, and experiences through puppet characters and simple storytelling. Advocated for educational television and received recognition for contributions to children's media.
Continue ReadingKostis Palamas
Greek poet and playwright of 'The Kiss'
Born
January 13th, 1859 167 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1943 83 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 ReadingGanesh Vasudev Mavalankar
Indian politician, 1st Lok Sabha Speaker
Born
November 27th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1956 70 years ago — 67 years old
An influential Indian politician and activist, served as the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1952 to 1956. Played a significant role in the establishment of parliamentary procedures in independent India. Was involved in the Indian independence movement, contributing to the Indian National Congress and advocating for social reforms. After independence, focused on the democratic processes in the newly formed government, emphasizing the importance of legislative functions and discipline within the assembly.
Continue Reading