John Bradbury
English musician and founding member of The Specials
Born
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An influential English musician, a founding member of the ska band The Specials. Contributed to the band's distinctive sound characterized by a mix of reggae and punk rock. Played the drums on several of their most notable tracks. The Specials achieved critical and commercial success during the late 1970s and early 1980s, particularly with their self-titled debut album. The band is recognized for their social commentary in songs and their role in the 2 Tone ska revival.
Played drums on The Specials' self-titled debut album
Contributed to the single 'Ghost Town'
Participated in the band's reunion tours
Other People Born on February 16th
Coby White
Basketball player for Chicago Bulls
Born
February 16th, 2000 26 years ago
Started professional basketball career in 2019 with the Chicago Bulls in the NBA. Played college basketball at the University of North Carolina, earning All-ACC honors. Contributed to the Bulls with notable scoring ability and playmaking skills.
Continue ReadingHenrietta Barnett
English Women's Royal Air Force Officer
Born
February 16th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1985 41 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a prominent officer in the Women's Royal Air Force (WRAF) during World War II. Played a significant role in leading numerous initiatives that supported women's contributions in the military aviation field. After the war, continued to advocate for women's rights and integration into the armed forces. Engaged in various efforts to acknowledge the importance of women's roles in wartime service, including writing and speaking on the subject.
Continue ReadingAugust Coppola
American author and academic
Born
February 16th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2009 17 years ago — 75 years old
An academic and author engaged in literature and film studies. Held teaching positions at universities such as California State University, Los Angeles. Contributed to the literary field through various publications. In addition to teaching, explored topics related to the arts and wrote about film criticism. Established a reputation in academia while influencing students and aspiring writers.
Continue ReadingHenry M. Leland
Automotive Entrepreneur and Inventor
Born
February 16th, 1843 183 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1932 94 years ago — 89 years old
A machinist and engineer, developed significant advancements in the automotive industry. Founded Cadillac in 1902, introducing precision manufacturing techniques that set industry standards. Established Lincoln Motor Company in 1917, focusing on luxury automobiles. Contributed to mass production methods, influencing automotive design and engineering.
Continue ReadingStéphane Dalmat
French footballer and midfielder
Born
February 16th, 1979 47 years ago
Played as a midfielder in professional football. Started the career at Grenoble Foot 38 before moving on to clubs such as Bordeaux, Marseille, and Saint-Étienne. Instrumental in contributing to his teams' success in domestic leagues. Represented France at youth levels, participating in the U-20 World Cup. Accumulated experience in both Ligue 1 and Ligue 2.
Continue ReadingSarah Clarke
Actress in '24' and 'Twilight' series
Born
February 16th, 1972 54 years ago
An American actress starred in the television series '24' as Nina Myers and appeared in the 'Twilight' film series as Renee Dwyer. Clarke has also participated in various other television shows and films, showcasing her versatility across genres. Roles expanded to include appearances in projects such as 'The Man in the High Castle' and 'Nip/Tuck.' Initially gained recognition through live theater before transitioning to screen acting.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 28th
Pierre Bayle
French philosopher and author of Dictionnaire
Born
November 18th, 1647 378 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1706 319 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1647, a French philosopher and author contributed significantly to the field of philosophy through critical essays and works on skepticism. The publication of 'Dictionnaire historique et critique' in 1697 became a seminal text in the realms of philosophy and literature, influencing Enlightenment thinkers and sparking debates on religion, tolerance, and reason. Bayle challenged dogmatic beliefs and promoted rational inquiry, which laid foundational ideas for modern secular thought. His writings often addressed the relationship between faith and reason, advocating for religious tolerance and understanding amidst a tumultuous religious landscape in Europe.
Continue ReadingAllan Dwan
Film director and screenwriter with 'Robin Hood'
Born
April 3rd, 1885 141 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1981 44 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1885, this individual had a prolific career in the film industry, directing over 400 films. Contributions spanned from the silent era to the advent of sound in cinema. Significant works include 'Robin Hood' (1922) and 'The Iron Mask' (1929). Dwan's career extended into the 1950s, illustrating a notable adaptability to changing film styles and technologies. Inducted into the Canadian Walk of Fame, his influence on early Hollywood remains evident.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Maria Grimaldi
Italian mathematician and physicist, wave theory
Born
April 2nd, 1618 408 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1663 362 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1618, significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and physics were made. Grimaldi is recognized for his studies in optics and the wave theory of light. His experimentation with diffraction led to a better understanding of light behavior. These contributions were foundational for subsequent optical research.
Continue ReadingWilliam L. Shirer
Journalist and historian of WWII broadcasts
Born
February 23rd, 1904 122 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1993 32 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent journalist and historian, this individual covered major events during World War II. Early in his career, worked for the Chicago Tribune and later joined CBS, becoming a key radio correspondent in Europe. Provided live radio broadcasts during pivotal moments of the war, including the fall of Paris and the end of the conflict. Authored several historical works, with 'The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich' being the most notable, offering a comprehensive history of Nazi Germany and its leaders. The comprehensive research and narrative style contributed significantly to the field of historical journalism.
Continue ReadingJack Lovelock
New Zealand runner and journalist
Born
January 5th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1949 76 years ago — 39 years old
Contributed significantly to the world of athletics as a middle-distance runner. Achieved notable success by winning a gold medal in the 1500 meters at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Set multiple world records during the racing career, with a remarkable time in the mile run. Also pursued a career in journalism, offering insights and analysis on sports and other topics. Returned to New Zealand after years overseas, continuing to influence the local sporting community.
Continue ReadingMax Steiner
Film composer for classic Hollywood scores
Born
May 10th, 1888 138 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1971 54 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Austria, a composer and conductor made significant contributions to the film industry. Immigrated to the United States in the early 20th century and became a pivotal figure in the development of film music. Created scores for over 300 films, shaping the sound of classic Hollywood. Worked extensively with Warner Bros. and contributed to many iconic films. Received multiple Academy Awards for achievements in scoring, solidifying a legacy as one of the founders of film orchestration.
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