Joe Garagiola
Baseball Player and Sports Broadcaster
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1946 to 1954, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Giants, and Chicago Cubs. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retirement, becoming a prominent commentator. Served as a host for the television game show 'The Today Show' along with baseball coverage on NBC. Authored a memoir titled 'Baseball is a Funny Game', reflecting on experiences in the sport.
Played for the St. Louis Cardinals
Hosted 'The Today Show'
Authored 'Baseball is a Funny Game'
Other People Born on February 12th
Sigmund Rascher
German physician and experimenter
Born
February 12th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 36 years old
A German physician worked in the field of aviation medicine and conducted experiments during World War II. Rascher often collaborated with the Luftwaffe, studying the effects of high altitude on the human body and establishing protocols for pilots exposed to extreme conditions. His studies included infamous experiments related to hypothermia and freezing at Dachau concentration camp. He was also involved in unethical medical practices, resulting in his later trial for war crimes post-war.
Continue ReadingRay Manzarek
Keyboardist and co-founder of The Doors
Born
February 12th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent keyboardist and producer, contributed significantly to rock music as a co-founder of the band The Doors. Instrumental in shaping the sound of the band with distinctive keyboard melodies and innovative use of the organ. Served as the band's creative force alongside its iconic frontman. Played a key role in producing several of the band's albums and supporting the distinctive blend of rock, blues, and psychedelia that characterized their work. Frequent collaborator with other artists throughout his career, exploring various musical genres.
Continue ReadingDom DiMaggio
Baseball player and All-Star center fielder
Born
February 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2009 16 years ago — 92 years old
Played professional baseball as a center fielder from 1939 to 1953. Spent the majority of his career with the Boston Red Sox. Achieved All-Star status three times and was a key contributor to the team's success during his tenure. After retirement, contributed to baseball as a coach and front office executive.
Continue ReadingKhvicha Kvaratskhelia
Georgian footballer; Napoli forward
Born
February 12th, 2001 24 years ago
Born in Georgia in 2001, a professional footballer made a significant impact in European football. Started playing at a young age in local clubs and gained attention for exceptional skills. Joined Napoli in 2022, quickly establishing himself as a key player. Contributed to Napoli's successful Serie A campaign, helping the team secure the championship title in the 2022-2023 season. His play style and contributions on the field garnered recognition in Italy and beyond.
Continue ReadingFranco Zeffirelli
Italian director and producer of film
Born
February 12th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2019 6 years ago — 96 years old
Directed and produced films and operas, focusing on Shakespearean adaptations and classic literature. Notable works include the film adaptation of 'Romeo and Juliet' (1968) and 'Hamlet' (1990). Founded a production company, Zeffirelli Productions, to oversee his projects. Served as a member of the Italian Parliament and held a significant role in the cultural scene of Italy. Created various acclaimed operatic productions, notably for La Scala in Milan.
Continue ReadingRudolf Jakob Camerarius
Botanist, first to describe plant sex
Born
February 12th, 1665 360 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1721 304 years ago — 56 years old
A German botanist and physician, significant contributions included the discovery of plant reproduction through both male and female organs. Developed the terms 'stamen' and 'pistil', which are central to the study of botany. Published works on plant physiology and classification that laid foundations for modern botany. His research on the role of pollen in fertilization advanced understanding of plant biology. Engaged with various scientific societies, promoting advancements in the field during the 17th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 23rd
Eric Medlen
Race Car Driver, NHRA Funny Car Champion
Born
August 13th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2007 18 years ago — 33 years old
A race car driver competed primarily in the NHRA Funny Car division. Medlen drove for John Force Racing during his career. Achieved significant success on the track with multiple wins. Tragically passed away in 2007 following an accident during testing. His contributions to the sport left a lasting legacy within the NHRA community.
Continue ReadingCristóbal Balenciaga
Fashion designer and founder of Balenciaga
Born
January 21st, 1895 131 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1972 53 years ago — 77 years old
A Spanish fashion designer established a renowned fashion house in Paris. Influenced by art and architecture, created innovative designs that redefined women's fashion in the mid-20th century. Dressed various celebrities and aristocrats and was known for masterful tailoring and unique silhouettes. The fashion house produced iconic pieces such as the 'Balloon Jacket' and 'Baby Doll Dress'. Balenciaga's work is celebrated for its forward-thinking style, contributing to the evolution of modern fashion.
Continue ReadingGeorge Segal
American actor in film and television
Born
February 13th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2021 4 years ago — 87 years old
An American actor gained recognition through performances in films during the 1960s and 1970s. Segal starred in notable movies such as 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' and 'Deathtrap', showcasing a range that included both drama and comedy. He portrayed characters with nuance and depth, earning critical acclaim throughout his career. Additionally, Segal gained popularity for his role in the television series 'Just Shoot Me!', which further solidified his status in the entertainment industry. Segal's contributions spanned decades, making him a memorable figure in film and television.
Continue ReadingRafqa Pietra Choboq Ar-Rayès
Lebanese saint and mystic
Born
1832 194 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1914 111 years ago — 82 years old
Born in the late 19th century in Lebanon, a life dedicated to faith and spirituality in the Maronite Catholic tradition unfolded. Entered a convent at a young age, adopting the name Rafqa and engaging in a life of prayer, contemplation, and service. Known for experiencing mystical visions and deep devotion, which drew attention and inspired many within the local community. Endured significant hardships, including physical ailments, yet maintained a steadfast commitment to her spiritual path. Passed away in 1914, leaving behind a legacy of devotion that led to beatification and later canonization.
Continue ReadingHovhannes Tumanyan
Armenian-Russian poet and author
Born
February 19th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1923 102 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1869, Tumanyan emerged as a pivotal figure in Armenian literature. Primarily recognized for his contributions to poetry, Tumanyan's works often drew from Armenian folklore and culture. He wrote extensively, producing poems, short stories, and translations. His literary style combined traditional forms with modern themes, infusing a sense of cultural identity and emotional depth. Tumanyan's dedication to preserving Armenian heritage became evident in his writings, many of which continue to be celebrated and taught in Armenian literature today. He passed away in 1923, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in Armenian literary circles.
Continue ReadingNaji Talib
Iraqi Politician, 52nd Prime Minister
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 52nd Prime Minister of Iraq, holding office during a critical period following the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime. Focused on rebuilding governmental institutions and addressing the challenges of political transition in post-war Iraq. Led efforts to stabilize the economy and restore public services in a nation facing significant social and political upheaval.
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