Fred Biletnikoff
American football wide receiver, Super Bowl MVP
A professional American football wide receiver and coach, achieved success primarily with the Oakland Raiders. Played as a wide receiver from 1965 to 1978, becoming a key player for the team. Earned the Super Bowl MVP award in Super Bowl XI, demonstrating exceptional skill and performance on the field. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988, solidifying a distinguished career in professional football. Transitioned to coaching after finishing a playing career, contributing to the development of future players.
Earned Super Bowl MVP in Super Bowl XI
Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988
Played for the Oakland Raiders from 1965 to 1978
Other People Born on February 23rd
Paul Tibbets
American general and pilot of Enola Gay
Born
February 23rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 1st, 2007 18 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a general in the United States Air Force. Played a critical role during World War II as a pilot and commanded the aircraft that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima in 1945. Tibbets was pivotal in the development of strategic bombing tactics. His career included various leadership roles in military operations post-war, influencing airpower doctrine.
Continue ReadingKevin Connauton
Ice hockey player, Vancouver Canucks
Born
February 23rd, 1990 35 years ago
This athlete played professional ice hockey primarily in the National Hockey League (NHL), with stints at various teams including the Vancouver Canucks, Dallas Stars, and Arizona Coyotes. Career in the NHL began after being drafted in 2011. Competed in the league for several seasons, showcasing skills as a defenseman. In addition to the NHL, also played in the American Hockey League (AHL), contributing to the teams' defensive lines and earning recognition in junior hockey leagues.
Continue ReadingJohnny Winter
Blues guitarist and music producer
Born
February 23rd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1944, a prominent figure in the blues and rock music scenes. Became known for exceptional guitar skills and a distinct slide guitar technique. Released several influential albums throughout the career, including 'Johnny Winter' and 'Still Alive and Well'. Worked with various notable artists, enhancing the blues genre with a mix of rock elements. Continued to perform and record music until death in 2014.
Continue ReadingAllan McLeod Cormack
Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
February 23rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1998 27 years ago — 74 years old
Contributed to the development of computed tomography, a pivotal technique in medical imaging that allows for cross-sectional imaging of the body. Worked at Tufts University where significant research and advancements in x-ray technology were made. Collaborated with others to further improve imaging resolutions and techniques.
Continue ReadingPope Paul II
Pope and author of significant papal bulls
Born
February 23rd, 1417 608 years ago
Died
1471 555 years ago — 54 years old
Elected as pope in 1464, played a crucial role in the Catholic Church during the Renaissance. Focused on church reform and suppression of corruption. Initiated the reconstruction of St. Peter's Basilica and supported the arts, contributing to the cultural revival of the era. Authored numerous papal bulls, including those addressing ecclesiastical governance and social issues. Died in 1471, leaving a lasting legacy within the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingCésar Ritz
Founder of luxury Ritz hotels
Born
February 23rd, 1850 175 years ago
Died
1918 108 years ago — 68 years old
A Swiss businessman, established the Ritz Hotel in London and Hôtel Ritz Paris, revolutionizing luxury hospitality. Emphasized high standards of service and comfort. His hotels became synonymous with elegance and sophistication, attracting affluent clientele from around the world.
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