Jim Thorpe
Olympic athlete and football player
Competed in the 1912 Summer Olympics, winning gold medals in the pentathlon and decathlon. Played professional football for the Canton Bulldogs and was a founding member of the NFL. Also played Major League Baseball for several teams, including the New York Giants. Recognized as one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century due to accomplishments across multiple sports.
Won gold medals in pentathlon and decathlon at the 1912 Olympics
Played for the Canton Bulldogs, winning multiple championships
Played for the New York Giants in Major League Baseball
Other People Born on February 3rd
Jehan Alain
French organist and composer
Born
February 3rd, 1911 115 years ago
Died
1940 86 years ago — 29 years old
A composer and organist contributed significantly to 20th-century music. Specialized in organ compositions and avant-garde styles, created numerous works that gained recognition posthumously. Studied under prominent teachers and developed a unique musical language that reflected both traditional and modern influences. The Philippe's organ concertos and other pieces showcased innovative harmonies and structural elements. Active during a tumultuous period leading up to World War II, his career was cut short due to his untimely death in 1940, yet his legacy continued to influence musicians and composers.
Continue ReadingArtur Adson
Estonian poet and playwright
Born
February 3rd, 1889 137 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Estonia, Adson became a prominent figure in early 20th-century literature. His works often reflected the complexities of life and culture in Estonia during a tumultuous period. Adson not only wrote poetry but also engaged in playwriting and literary criticism. He contributed significantly to the Estonian literary scene and played a role in the development of the national narrative through his written word.
Continue ReadingCharles Henry Turner
Biologist and zoologist studying insects
Born
February 3rd, 1867 159 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1923 102 years ago — 56 years old
A biologist and zoologist, contributions focused on the study of insects. Conducted significant research on the behavior and communication of ants and bees. Developed a methodology for studying animal psychology. Turner was the first African American to receive a Ph.D. in zoology from the University of Chicago. His research investigated the learning abilities of insects, revealing their complex behavior and cognitive functions. Turner served as an educator and worked to promote the education of science among African Americans.
Continue ReadingShelley Berman
American comedian and actor
Born
February 3rd, 1925 101 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent figure in the world of comedy and acting. Gained widespread recognition in the 1960s through stand-up performances and appearances on television. Released successful comedy albums, including 'Shelley Berman's America', which earned a Grammy Award. Appeared in television series such as 'Below The Belt' and had a notable role as Larry's father in 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'. His contributions to comedy during a transformative era solidified his position in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingRaghuram Rajan
Economist and former RBI Governor
Born
February 3rd, 1963 63 years ago
An economist and academic contributed significantly to global economic theory and policy. Served as the 23rd Governor of the Reserve Bank of India from 2013 to 2016. Worked as the Chief Economist and Director of Research at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from 2003 to 2007. Held a professorship at the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business. Authored several influential books and papers on economic issues, including financial market regulation and global economic stability.
Continue ReadingHelena Palaiologina
Queen of Cyprus, last Byzantine princess
Born
February 3rd, 1428 598 years ago
Born in 1428, she became the queen of Cyprus through marriage to King John II of Cyprus. Her reign was marked by her efforts to strengthen the kingdom amidst external threats. Following the death of her husband in 1458, she continued to govern until her own death later that year, marking the end of the line for her dynasty. The royal lineage traced back to the Byzantine emperors, which emphasized her noble heritage during her rule.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 28th
Ryuichi Sakamoto
Pianist and composer of film scores
Born
January 17th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2023 2 years ago — 71 years old
A pianist and composer, significant contributions included film scores and collaborations across various musical genres. Debuted with the electronic music group Yellow Magic Orchestra in the late 1970s, which pioneered synth-pop and techno. Created acclaimed scores for films such as 'Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence' and 'The Last Emperor', the latter winning an Academy Award. Collaborated with numerous artists and showed a versatile approach to composition, merging Eastern and Western musical influences.
Continue ReadingValdemar II of Denmark
Danish King and military leader
Born
1170 856 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1241 784 years ago — 71 years old
Ruled Denmark from 1202 to 1241, Valdemar II significantly expanded Danish territory and influence through military campaigns and strategic marriages. His reign included the consolidation of power through the annexation of territories in the Baltic Sea region. Valdemar led campaigns against opponents in Sweden and Pomerania, establishing Denmark as a dominant power in Northern Europe. He faced internal conflicts and challenges to his authority but maintained control over the kingdom until his death in 1241. Valdemar's legacy includes the promotion of trade and the strengthening of royal authority.
Continue ReadingPope Martin IV
Pope with papacy during the 13th century
Died
March 28th, 1285 740 years ago — None years old
Served as pope from 1281 until death in 1285. Elected following the papacy's return to Rome, focused on restoring order within the church and consolidating papal power. Engaged in political maneuvering to counteract the influence of powerful families in Italy, particularly in Rome and Sicily. Advocated for church reform and addressed issues related to clerical misconduct during tenure as pope. His papacy also coincided with conflicts involving Charles I of Anjou and the ongoing struggles for control in Sicily.
Continue ReadingPaul O'Grady
Comedian and drag queen, hosted 'The Paul O'Grady Show'
Born
June 14th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2023 2 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent figure in British entertainment, this individual gained fame through comedy and drag performances. Success began in the drag persona Lily Savage, which led to television appearances and a significant following. Hosted 'The Paul O'Grady Show' from 2004 to 2008, winning multiple awards. Made frequent guest appearances on various programs and contributed to charity work, particularly focusing on animal welfare. Authored several books and engaged in significant public speaking.
Continue ReadingIvan the Terrible
Russian Tsar and first ruler of Russia
Born
August 25th, 1530 495 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1584 441 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled as the Tsar of Russia from 1547 until death in 1584. The first ruler to be crowned as Tsar, Ivan centralized power and expanded the territory of Russia. Through military campaigns, he expanded into Siberia, gaining significant land and resources. His reign was marked by the establishment of the Oprichnina, a policy that involved political repression and the creation of a loyal military force. His legacy is characterized by both his expansionist policies and the sociopolitical turmoil of his reign.
Continue ReadingChuck Brayton
Baseball coach and player at Washington State
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent baseball player and coach, contributed significantly to collegiate baseball. Played for the Washington State Cougars during the 1950s and achieved All-American honors. Transitioned to coaching, serving as head coach for Washington State for over two decades, where led the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and a conference championship.
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