Hjalmar Andersen
Norwegian speed skater and Olympic champion
This athlete excelled in speed skating, becoming a prominent figure in the sport during the 1940s and 1950s. Competed in the 1948 Winter Olympics, securing three gold medals in the 500m, 1500m, and 10,000m events. Achieved significant success at the World Championships, where first place was claimed multiple times. Additionally, participated in cycling, showcasing versatility in sports.
Won three gold medals at the 1948 Winter Olympics
Secured multiple World Championships titles in speed skating
Other People Born on March 12th
Yashwantrao Chavan
Indian politician and Deputy Prime Minister
Born
March 12th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1984 41 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 5th Deputy Prime Minister of India from 1971 to 1975. Played a significant role in the Indian National Congress, contributing to the formation of the Maharashtra state in 1960. Held various ministerial positions, including the Minister of Home Affairs and the Minister of Finance. Active in the Indian independence movement, he was a prominent figure in Indian politics post-independence. His leadership greatly influenced the political landscape of Maharashtra and beyond.
Continue ReadingDont'a Hightower
American football linebacker and coach
Born
March 12th, 1990 35 years ago
Played linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the New England Patriots. Contributed to the team's victories in Super Bowl XLIX, LI, and LIII. Transitioned to a coaching role following retirement from playing, sharing knowledge and experience gained during a successful playing career. Recognized for strong leadership on and off the field, particularly in key defensive roles.
Continue ReadingBob Houbregs
Canadian basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
March 12th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
Played college basketball at the University of Washington. Had a successful professional career in the NBA, primarily with the Milwaukee Hawks. Was selected as an NBA All-Star in 1953, showcasing skills as a forward-center. Contributed significantly to various teams throughout his career, known for scoring and rebounding. Additionally, played with the Toronto Huskies in the early years of professional basketball in Canada.
Continue ReadingVytautas Černiauskas
Lithuanian footballer and goalkeeper
Born
March 12th, 1989 36 years ago
Born in Lithuania, a professional footballer focused on the position of goalkeeper. Developed early career at FK Mažeikiai. Played for FC KUPISKIS, contributing to the team's success in various competitions. Later joined FK Žalgiris, where solid performances were crucial in securing league titles and domestic cup victories. Accumulated experience in the Baltic football scene, showcasing skills and leadership on the pitch.
Continue ReadingWally Schirra
Astronaut and Apollo 7 commander
Born
March 12th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2007 18 years ago — 84 years old
A captain, pilot, and astronaut, this individual became a prominent figure in the early years of human spaceflight. Selected as one of the original seven astronauts for NASA's Project Mercury, he flew on Mercury-Atlas 8, performing six orbits of Earth in 1962. Later, he commanded the Apollo 7 mission in 1968, the first manned flight of the Apollo program, which tested crucial systems for future lunar missions. Throughout a distinguished career with NASA, he also contributed to the Gemini program and helped develop space shuttle technology.
Continue ReadingEd Clancy
Track and road cyclist, Olympic champion
Born
March 12th, 1985 40 years ago
Elite cyclist specialized in track and road events. Competed in multiple Olympic Games, achieving success in the team pursuit. Contributed to Great Britain's dominance in cycling by helping secure multiple gold medals at World Championships. Actively participated in national road races and consistently competed in professional events throughout a significant career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 27th
Aldo Ray
American actor noted for war films
Born
September 25th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1991 34 years ago — 64 years old
An American actor became prominent in the 1950s, particularly recognized for roles in war films. Starred in 'Battle Cry,' portraying a soldier in World War II, contributing to the film's success. Featured in 'The Naked and the Dead,' an adaptation of Norman Mailer's novel, and gained acclaim for intense performances. Worked alongside notable actors and directors throughout the 1950s and 1960s, earning respect in the industry. Later roles included appearances in soap operas and television films, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry until his death in 1991.
Continue ReadingNat Bailey
Canadian businessman, White Spot founder
Born
January 31st, 1902 124 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1978 47 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Canadian businessman, established a successful restaurant chain that emphasized quality and service. Opened the first White Spot restaurant in Vancouver in 1928, which became a staple in the region. Expanded the franchise across Canada, creating a brand recognized for its burgers, particularly the signature burger and the unique experience. Played a significant role in popularizing the drive-in dining experience in Canada, making White Spot a beloved dining destination. Laid the groundwork for future fast-casual dining establishments and contributed to the evolution of the Canadian restaurant landscape.
Continue ReadingMary of Burgundy
Duchess of Burgundy, skilled diplomat
Born
February 13th, 1457 568 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1482 543 years ago — 25 years old
Became Duchess of Burgundy in 1477 after the death of father, Charles the Bold. Married Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor, which strengthened ties between Burgundy and the Habsburg dynasty. Her reign witnessed significant political maneuvering and the consolidation of Burgundian territories. Her untimely death in 1482 led to her daughter, Philip the Fair, inheriting her extensive lands, which further integrated Burgundian influence into the Habsburg dominions.
Continue ReadingKamal Hassan Ali
Egyptian General and Prime Minister
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1993 32 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent Egyptian general and politician, served as Prime Minister of Egypt during a critical period of the nation's history. Held key military positions and played a crucial role in shaping defense policies. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the armed forces and address national security challenges. Transitioned from military to political leadership, impacting Egypt's governance structure while navigating complex regional dynamics. After leaving the office of Prime Minister, continued to participate in political discourse until death in 1993.
Continue ReadingIan Dury
English Singer-Songwriter and Actor
Born
May 12th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2000 25 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in the English music scene, this individual gained recognition in the late 1970s. His style combined elements of rock and punk, often infused with a distinctly British sensibility. The album 'New Boots and Panties!!' featured the hit singles 'Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick' and 'Reasons to Be Cheerful, Part 3'. As an actor, roles included appearances in films and television, contributing to a multifaceted career. A polio survivor, he often addressed themes of disability and resilience in his work.
Continue ReadingJoseph A. Campbell
Businessman, founded Campbell Soup Company
Born
1817 209 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1900 125 years ago — 83 years old
Founded Campbell Soup Company in 1869, transforming food preservation with canned goods. The company became a leader in the food industry under strategic management. Innovated soup production methods, which influenced consumer habits and dining practices. Expanded the business into a national brand through aggressive marketing and distribution strategies. The introduction of condensed soup became a significant product and is still popular in households today.
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