Joseph Jenkins Roberts
1st President of Liberia
Served as the first President of Liberia from 1848 to 1856 and again from 1872 to 1876. Played a significant role in the establishment of Liberia as a nation for freed African American slaves. Oversaw the expansion of territory during his presidency and worked on improving the infrastructure of the country. Advocated for the rights of settlers and engaged in diplomatic efforts to secure Liberia's recognition as an independent state.
First President of Liberia
Expanded Liberia’s territory
Other People Born on March 15th
Kyle Mills
New Zealand cricketer and fast bowler
Born
March 15th, 1979 46 years ago
Debuted in international cricket in 2001 and became a prominent fast bowler for the national team. Played in 72 One Day Internationals and 18 Test matches. Achieved significant success in limited-overs cricket, particularly in the ICC Cricket World Cup tournaments. Retired from international cricket in 2015. Post-retirement, transitioned to coaching and commentary roles.
Continue ReadingXavier Henry
Basketball player, NBA and NCAA standout
Born
March 15th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional basketball player, played college basketball at the University of Kansas where the team reached the NCAA Championship game in 2012. Entered the NBA draft and was selected by the Washington Wizards in 2010, then traded to the New Orleans Hornets. Played for the Los Angeles Lakers after stints with other teams in the league. Known for scoring ability and versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingAugusta Lady Gregory
Playwright and translator of Irish folklore
Born
March 15th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1932 93 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent Anglo-Irish landowner, playwright, and translator contributed significantly to the Irish Literary Revival. Co-founded the Abbey Theatre alongside W.B. Yeats and Edward Martyn, providing a platform for Irish literature. Wrote several influential plays, including 'The High Broom' and 'Kincora,' which reflected Irish cultural themes and folklore. Engaged in the translation and adaptation of Irish myths and legends, making them accessible to a broader audience.
Continue ReadingCharles Knight
English author and publisher
Born
March 15th, 1791 234 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 82 years old
An author and publisher, contributed significantly to the field of literature and education in the 19th century. Founded and published several important works, including the 'Encyclopaedia Metropolitana', which aimed to provide accessible knowledge to the general public. Additionally, played a pivotal role in establishing the first national newspaper, promoting the importance of journalism and information dissemination. His publications often focused on historical and educational themes.
Continue ReadingGerda Wegener
Danish artist known for painting
Born
March 15th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1886, an artist gained recognition for her portrait work and contributions to the visual art community in the early 20th century. The artist collaborated with her husband, Einar Wegener, who transitioned to become Lili Elbe, one of the first known transgender women to undergo gender confirmation surgery. This personal experience inspired several works that highlighted themes of gender identity and fluidity. The artist's paintings often featured elegant figures and a distinct Art Deco style, contributing to the diversity of early modernist art. The body of work remains influential in discussions surrounding identity and representation in art.
Continue ReadingMaxwell Jacob Friedman
Professional wrestler and MJF character
Born
March 15th, 1996 29 years ago
A professional wrestler debuted in 2015 and gained recognition in major wrestling promotions. Developed a persona as a provocative and charismatic performer, showcasing both in-ring skills and mic work. Achieved success in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) as a top contender for championships. Became the AEW World Champion, demonstrating a strong presence in the wrestling community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 24th
Ronald Pickup
English actor in film and television
Born
June 7th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2021 4 years ago — 80 years old
Acted in various film and television roles throughout a career spanning over six decades. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Kings Speech' and 'The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.' Notable for roles in classic British television series such as 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'The Last of the Summer Wine.' Also appeared in numerous stage productions, showcasing versatility across different mediums.
Continue ReadingJohn Daly
Game show host, journalist
Born
April 28th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1991 34 years ago — 24 years old
A prominent American journalist and game show host, worked on various television programs throughout the 1980s. Served as the host for the game show 'The Hollywood Squares', garnering attention for the show's unique format and celebrity panelists. Engaged in investigative journalism, shedding light on significant social issues of the time. Also contributed to news programs and various publications, making a mark in the field of broadcasting.
Continue ReadingHermann von Ihering
Zoologist and founder of a museum
Born
October 9th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1930 95 years ago — 79 years old
A German-Brazilian zoologist contributed significantly to the fields of zoology and evolutionary biology. Specialized in herpetology, focused on amphibians and reptiles. Established the Museu de Zoologia in São Paulo, which became a significant institution for research in Brazil. Conducted extensive studies on Brazilian fauna and published numerous works that highlighted biodiversity. His contributions helped lay the groundwork for modern zoological studies in the region.
Continue ReadingVirginia Bruce
American actress in film and television
Born
September 29th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1982 43 years ago — 72 years old
An American actress emerged in the 1920s and became a prominent figure in early Hollywood. Achievements included lead roles in films such as 'The Marriage Playground' and 'Broadway Nights'. Worked with various studios and transitioned to sound films, appearing in notable productions during the 1930s. Played a significant role in the film industry during a transformative period, contributing to the evolution of cinematic storytelling. Continued to perform in television through the 1950s, solidifying a lasting presence in entertainment.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Forbes
American publisher and entrepreneur
Born
August 19th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1990 35 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent publisher, focused on business and finance, established Forbes Magazine in 1917, which gained recognition for reporting on global economic trends and entrepreneurship. Led the magazine through significant growth, transforming it into a leading source of information on wealth and business strategies. Active in various business ventures including the Forbes Group, the publication's renowned ranking lists, such as the Forbes 400, became standard references for gauging American wealth. Notable for advocating for economic freedom and entrepreneurship, supported numerous philanthropic causes related to education and healthcare.
Continue ReadingJoshua Chamberlain
American General and Governor of Maine
Born
September 8th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1914 111 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a Union general during the American Civil War and participated in notable battles such as Gettysburg. Elected as the 32nd Governor of Maine, he served four terms and focused on education and economic development. Chamberlain was awarded the Medal of Honor for bravery at the Battle of Gettysburg. After the war, he became involved in higher education, serving as president of Bowdoin College.
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