James Milne Wilson
Scottish-Australian politician and soldier
Born in Scotland, a soldier served in the British Army before migrating to Australia. Held significant political roles, becoming the eighth Premier of Tasmania. Focused on land reform and immigration policies. Contributed to the development of Tasmania during a period of growth and change in the colony's history.
Served as the eighth Premier of Tasmania
Implemented land reform and immigration policies
Served as a soldier in the British Army
Other People Born on February 29th
Simon Gagné
Ice hockey player; Stanley Cup champion
Born
February 29th, 1980 45 years ago
Canadian ice hockey player competed in the NHL primarily as a left winger. Played for various teams, most notably the Philadelphia Flyers, with whom won the Stanley Cup in 2010. Also represented the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Los Angeles Kings during an extensive 14-season career in the NHL. Achieved significant success while with the Flyers, contributing to multiple playoff runs and earning All-Star selections during peak performance years. Additionally played for Team Canada in international competitions, including the IIHF World Championships.
Continue ReadingTerrence Long
American baseball player, Oakland Athletics
Born
February 29th, 1976 49 years ago
A professional baseball outfielder, played in the Major Leagues from 1998 to 2005. Significant career spent with the Oakland Athletics, contributing to the team's success during the early 2000s. Also played for the New York Mets, San Diego Padres, and Cincinnati Reds. Participated in both the 2000 and 2001 seasons as an everyday player, showcasing consistent performance at the plate and in the field. Infamous for his 2001 season when he achieved a batting average of .325.
Continue ReadingEric Kendricks
American football linebacker, Super Bowl champion
Born
February 29th, 1992 33 years ago
A professional American football linebacker played for the Minnesota Vikings from 2015 to 2021 and later joined the Los Angeles Chargers. Played college football at UCLA, where earned All-American honors. In 2017, recognized as the NFL's tackles leader. Contributed significantly to the Vikings' defenses during tenure and participated in Super Bowl LVI with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Continue ReadingEdward Cecil
1st Viscount Wimbledon, military leader
Born
February 29th, 1572 453 years ago
Died
1638 388 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1572, the 1st Viscount Wimbledon served as a military leader during the reign of King James I. He gained recognition for his role in several military campaigns, notably during the Anglo-Spanish War. His strategic leadership was exemplified during the Siege of Ostend, where he played a pivotal role in the defense and tactics employed. He was appointed Governor of the Isle of Wight and held various positions in the military administration. Additionally, he held the rank of Colonel during his service in the English army.
Continue ReadingAl Rosen
Baseball player and manager, 1953 MVP
Born
February 29th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
A baseball player and manager, achieved significant recognition in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the Cleveland Indians as a third baseman from 1947 to 1956. Won the American League Most Valuable Player award in 1953. Transitioned to a managerial role after retiring as a player, leading teams in various capacities. Recognized for contributions to the game and left a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingSaul Williams
Singer-songwriter and poet
Born
February 29th, 1972 53 years ago
An American singer-songwriter and poet, known for blending elements of hip-hop, rock, and spoken word in creative works. Gained prominence with the debut album 'Amethyst Rock Star' in 2001, showcasing a unique voice and style. Authored several books of poetry, including 'Said the Shotgun to the Head'. Engaged in various projects across music, theater, and film, collaborating with a range of artists and contributing to soundtracks. Notable for performances at major music festivals and cultural events, he has fostered a strong connection to social commentary through art.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 29th
Henri Joseph Anastase Perrotin
French astronomer and lunar cartographer
Born
1845 181 years ago
Died
February 29th, 1904 121 years ago — 59 years old
Contributed significantly to astronomy in the late 19th century. Focused primarily on lunar studies and published several works, including detailed maps of the Moon. Served as the director of the Nice Observatory, enhancing its reputation in astronomical research. His methods and findings influenced both contemporary and future lunar studies.
Continue ReadingLudwig I of Bavaria
King of Bavaria during the 19th century
Born
August 25th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
February 29th, 1868 157 years ago — 81 years old
Ruled Bavaria from 1825 to 1848, focusing on cultural development, the arts, and infrastructure. Commissioned numerous architectural projects, including the construction of the Bavaria statue and the Feldherrnhalle. Oversaw the establishment of several museums including the Alte Pinakothek in Munich. Promoted education and fostered the growth of the Bavarian economy. Abdicated in 1848 following a wave of uprisings across Europe.
Continue ReadingOswald of Worcester
Anglo-Saxon Archbishop and saint
Died
February 29th, 992 1033 years ago — None years old
Oswald of Worcester became the Archbishop of York in the 10th century. He played a significant role in promoting monastic reforms within the Anglo-Saxon church. His efforts contributed to the establishment of the Benedictine Rule in England, influencing various religious communities. Oswald also made contributions to the spread of Christianity in his region. He became a saint after his death in 992, recognized for his piety and leadership within the church.
Continue ReadingErnie Courtney
Baseball player, New York Giants star
Born
1875 151 years ago
Died
February 29th, 1920 105 years ago — 45 years old
A professional baseball player played as an outfielder and infielder in Major League Baseball. Career spanned from 1910 to 1916, primarily with the New York Giants. Contributed to the team's success during the early 1910s, showcasing notable skills at the plate and in the field. Played alongside prominent players of the era and participated in key games that defined the franchise's early history in the National League.
Continue ReadingWenn V. Deramas
Filipino director; directed 'Ang Tanging Ina'
Born
September 15th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
February 29th, 2016 9 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent figure in Filipino cinema, contributions included directing and writing several successful films and television shows. Best recognized for directing the comedy film 'Ang Tanging Ina', which became a box office hit and spawned sequels. Also directed popular television series, showcasing a knack for humor and storytelling. Established a reputation as a leading filmmaker in the Philippines by blending humor with relatable narratives.
Continue ReadingDieter Laser
German actor in horror films
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
February 29th, 2020 5 years ago — 78 years old
Dieter Laser was a German actor recognized predominantly for roles in horror films. He gained prominence for the lead role in the controversial film 'The Human Centipede' released in 2009, which became infamous for its unique and shocking concept. Laser had a background in theater and television, with an extensive career in Germany and abroad. His performance in 'The Human Centipede' earned critical recognition and established a cult following. In addition to his film work, Laser participated in various stage productions. His contributions to cinema and theater demonstrated a commitment to the craft throughout his career until his passing in 2020.
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