Jean-Pierre Wimille

French race car driver and Le Mans winner

Jean-Pierre Wimille - French race car driver and Le Mans winner
Born

February 26th, 1908
117 years ago

Died

January 28th, 1949
76 years ago — 40 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent race car driver from France, gained recognition in the 1930s and 1940s for participation in prestigious motorsport events. Achieved significant success in endurance racing, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where victories showcased exceptional driving skills. Competed in various Grand Prix events, establishing a reputation in the pre-war racing circuit and contributing to automotive sports history. Continued racing until tragic death in a car accident.

Won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1936 and 1939

Secured multiple wins in Grand Prix events

Drove for Bugatti and Alfa Romeo teams

Other People Born on February 26th

Chad Urmston

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 26th, 1976 49 years ago

A singer-songwriter and guitarist, an influential figure in the folk-rock genre. Formed the band Dispatch, which gained popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group's blend of reggae, rock, and folk resonated with a wide audience, leading to significant album sales and sold-out concerts. After Dispatch disbanded in 2002, focused on solo projects and continued to produce music. Reunited with Dispatch in 2011 for a series of performances and tours, further solidifying their place in contemporary music.

Continue Reading

Hannah Kearney

American Olympic freestyle skier
Born
February 26th, 1986 39 years ago

Accomplished in freestyle skiing, earned a gold medal in the Women's Mogul event at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Competed professionally and secured multiple titles at World Cup events, establishing a successful career in skiing. Demonstrated skill and competitive excellence throughout several seasons.

Continue Reading

Herbert Henry Dow

Businessman, founder of Dow Chemical
Born
February 26th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1930 95 years ago — 64 years old

A Canadian-American businessman founded Dow Chemical Company in 1897 in Midland, Michigan. The company became a significant player in the chemical industry, emphasizing innovation and new product development. Dow developed various industrial products, including materials for agriculture, energy, and consumer goods. Through effective marketing strategies, the company grew rapidly and expanded its operations globally. Dow's commitment to research and development contributed to advancements in materials science and chemical engineering.

Continue Reading

Maria Amalia

Duchess of Parma and Piacenza
Born
February 26th, 1746 279 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1804 220 years ago — 58 years old

Born into the House of Bourbon, assumed the title of Duchess of Parma in 1748 after her marriage to Duke Ferdinand of Parma. Managed the duchy during a period marked by political changes and military conflicts in Europe. Fostered artistic and cultural developments in Parma, supporting various artists and architects. Held court in a fashionable palace while navigating the complexities of European nobility and alliances.

Continue Reading

John Jude Palencar

Artist and illustrator of book covers
Born
February 26th, 1957 68 years ago

An American artist and illustrator, involvement in the field of book cover art spanned several decades. Contributions included illustrations for notable authors like Stephen King and Dean Koontz. Gained recognition for a unique style that blended realism with imaginative elements. Also engaged in creating artwork for role-playing games and various editorial publications. His distinctive approach to visual storytelling left a lasting mark on the genre of fantasy and horror illustration.

Continue Reading

Johnny Cash

Singer-songwriter, musician, actor
Born
February 26th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2003 21 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in country music, this individual blended elements of folk, rock, and blues into a distinctive sound. First gaining recognition in the 1950s, he became widely popular with hits such as 'I Walk the Line' and 'Ring of Fire.' His career spanned five decades, during which he recorded over 90 albums. He also hosted a variety show, 'The Johnny Cash Show,' which further solidified his status in American entertainment. His unique style, often characterized by a deep, rich voice and somber themes, resonated with a broad audience and influenced many artists across genres.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 28th

Signe Toly Anderson

American singer with Jefferson Airplane
Born
September 15th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent American singer, a founding member of the rock band Jefferson Airplane, contributed significantly to the psychedelic rock scene in the 1960s. Anderson provided lead vocals on the band's debut album, 'Takes Off,' which featured the hit single 'It's No Secret.' Anderson's unique vocal style helped shape the early sound of the band, which became a significant influence on the rock genre. After her departure from Jefferson Airplane in 1966, she pursued a solo career and continued to perform with various groups. Anderson's contributions to music continued until her later years, and she remained a figure in the rock community until her passing.

Continue Reading

Bob Tizard

New Zealand politician and Deputy Prime Minister
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a prominent figure in New Zealand politics, holding key positions and influencing legislative developments. Played a vital role in the Labour Party, contributing to policy-making and governance from the late 20th century. Occupied the office of Deputy Prime Minister and held various ministerial roles throughout the political career, addressing issues relevant to New Zealand's progress and welfare. Engaged in legal and public service before entering active politics, shaping the landscape of New Zealand's political framework.

Continue Reading

Burne Hogarth

Cartoonist and author of Tarzan comics
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1996 29 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent cartoonist and illustrator, contributed significantly to the comic book industry. Best recognized for the dynamic artwork in the 'Tarzan' comic strip, which showcased exceptional draftsmanship and an understanding of human anatomy. Authored several instructional art books, providing guidance on figure drawing and cartooning. Served as a faculty member at the School of Visual Arts, shaping the skills of future artists.

Continue Reading

Choekyi Gyaltsen

10th Panchen Lama of Tibet
Born
February 19th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1989 36 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1938, a prominent Tibetan spiritual leader and the 10th Panchen Lama. Elected to this position at a young age, he became an important religious figure in Tibetan Buddhism. In 1951, he was recognized by the Chinese government, which led to his significant role in Tibetan affairs. The Panchen Lama advocated for Tibetan autonomy and the preservation of Buddhist culture. He faced imprisonment and restrictions due to political tensions in Tibet, and his later years were marked by efforts to gain recognition for Tibetan rights. The Panchen Lama passed away in 1989, leaving a lasting legacy in Tibetan religious life.

Continue Reading

Geoff Nicholls

British musician and Black Sabbath keyboardist
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2017 8 years ago — 69 years old

A musician primarily recognized for keyboard work in the heavy metal band Black Sabbath. Joined Black Sabbath in the late 1970s as a touring keyboardist and contributed to the studio albums 'Technical Ecstasy' and 'Never Say Die!'. In addition to work with Black Sabbath, collaborated with other artists and bands throughout his career, enhancing many musical projects with his keyboard skills and arrangements.

Continue Reading

Jorge Obeid

Argentinian politician and governor
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 67 years old

An engineer and politician, served as the Governor of Santa Fe Province in Argentina from 2003 to 2007. Played a significant role in provincial politics and contributed to various public policies during his tenure. Engaged in numerous political initiatives and focused on issues related to education, health care, and infrastructure development. His leadership aimed to address the challenges faced by the province and its citizens.

Continue Reading