Jacques de La Palice
French military officer and nobleman
Born
1470
556 years ago
Died
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
France
Links & References
Served as a prominent military officer in the French Army during the early 16th century. Participated in the Italian Wars, specifically noted for leadership in the Battle of Pavia. Achieved significant recognition for bravery in battle, ultimately leading to honors posthumously due to the circumstances of his death. An epitaph mistakenly attributed to him became a source of popular humor, further immortalizing his legacy.
Led French forces at the Battle of Pavia
Became a subject of popular humor through his epitaph
Other People Who Died on February 24th
Shiranui Kōemon
Sumo wrestler and champion performer
Born
March 3rd, 1825 201 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1879 147 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1825, a notable sumo wrestler achieved great success in the Edo period. Gained recognition for the unique wrestling style and contributed to the popularization of the sport. Competed in various tournaments and trained many aspiring wrestlers, leaving a lasting legacy in the sumo community. The title of yokozuna was earned, representing the pinnacle of sumo wrestling. His influence extended beyond the ring, impacting the cultural landscape of Japan during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingAntonio Prohías
Cuban cartoonist and Spy vs. Spy creator
Born
January 17th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1998 28 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent Cuban cartoonist, produced influential works that reflected political themes and satire. Emigrated from Cuba to the United States after the Cuban Revolution in 1960. Created the beloved comic strip 'Spy vs. Spy', which debuted in 'MAD Magazine' in 1961. The strip featured two spies, one black and one white, engaging in humorous and absurd battles. Worked for several publications, showcasing a distinctive style and sharp wit. Continued to contribute to 'MAD Magazine' and other comic venues until passing away in 1998.
Continue ReadingGerd von Rundstedt
German field marshal and military leader
Born
1875 151 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1953 73 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent military leader during World War II, held the rank of Field Marshal in the German Army. Participated in numerous campaigns on the Eastern and Western Fronts. Played a significant role in the Battle of France and later commanded forces during the Normandy Invasion. After the war, was taken prisoner and later released in 1948. Continued to be a significant figure in military discussions until death in 1953.
Continue ReadingDawn Brancheau
Senior animal trainer at SeaWorld
Born
1969 57 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2010 16 years ago — 41 years old
Worked as a senior trainer at SeaWorld, specializing in the care and training of orcas. Initiated numerous educational programs and public presentations focused on marine life. Contributed to the development of sea animal training protocols and emphasized positive reinforcement techniques. Involved in direct interactions and performances with Shamu, the park's iconic killer whale. Tragically passed away during a training session, raising awareness about marine animal safety.
Continue ReadingRakhat Aliyev
Kazakh politician and diplomat
Born
December 10th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2015 11 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent figure in Kazakhstan's political landscape, served as the Deputy Head of the Kazakh National Security Committee. Held various diplomatic positions, including Ambassador to Austria and a significant role within the Akmolinsk Oblast government. Involved in several political controversies and faced legal challenges before leaving Kazakhstan. After expatriating, efforts to maintain a public profile continued, but ultimately met a tragic end in 2015.
Continue ReadingKatherine Johnson
American mathematician and physicist
Born
August 26th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2020 6 years ago — 101 years old
A physicist and mathematician contributed significantly to the United States space program, particularly during the early years of NASA. She calculated flight trajectories for the first American in space, Alan Shepard, and provided crucial calculations for the Apollo 11 mission, which landed the first humans on the Moon. In 2015, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for contributions to the fields of mathematics and aerospace.
Continue Reading