Julian Simon
Economist and author of population growth
An economist and author focused on population growth and resource availability contributed significant perspectives in the debates surrounding population and resources. Employed the ideas of economic theory to argue that human innovation could yield solutions to resource scarcity. Authored influential books including 'The Ultimate Resource', which posited that human creativity is key to overcoming limitations posed by natural resources. Engaged in public policy discussions, influencing perceptions on population dynamics and economic growth.
Authored 'The Ultimate Resource'
Debated resource scarcity with experts
Advanced the theory of human ingenuity
Other People Born on February 12th
Brad Keselowski
Race Car Driver, 2012 NASCAR Champion
Born
February 12th, 1984 41 years ago
A notable race car driver, achieved significant success in NASCAR. Started racing in the NASCAR series in 2008, quickly making a name in the sport. Captured the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship in 2012, becoming the first driver to win under the new playoff format. Established a multi-car racing team, contributing to the sport beyond driving. Demonstrated consistency in performance, earning numerous victories throughout the career.
Continue ReadingJohan Laidoner
Estonian-Russian general and military leader
Born
February 12th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1953 72 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1884, served as a key military leader in Estonia. Played a crucial role in the Estonian War of Independence, leading Estonian forces to victory against Bolshevik and German troops. Held the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Estonian Army from 1919 to 1920 and later served again from 1924 until 1940. Contributed to the establishment of a national military framework and strategic defense initiatives.
Continue ReadingNicolás Otamendi
Argentine footballer and defender
Born
February 12th, 1988 37 years ago
This Argentine footballer primarily played as a central defender. He began his professional career with Vélez Sarsfield, moving to Europe to play for clubs such as Porto and Valencia. Otamendi gained recognition for his performances at Manchester City, where he won multiple titles and contributed to the team's success in domestic and international competitions. Additionally, he represented Argentina in various international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the Copa América, showcasing his skills on a global stage.
Continue ReadingBud Dupree
American football linebacker, Super Bowl
Born
February 12th, 1993 32 years ago
Played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) after being selected in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft. Spent the majority of professional career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, contributing to the team's defensive strategies. Helped the Steelers secure multiple playoff appearances during tenure. Later joined the Tennessee Titans, continuing to play a key role in their defense.
Continue ReadingTodd Frazier
Professional baseball player, 2015 All-Star
Born
February 12th, 1986 39 years ago
Played in Major League Baseball for several teams including the Cincinnati Reds, Chicago White Sox, and New York Mets. Achieved significant success during the 2015 season, earning an All-Star selection and winning the Home Run Derby. Featured prominently in the 2016 World Series, contributing to team efforts in key games. Concluded a notable career with multiple achievements.
Continue ReadingDeMarco Murray
American football running back, NFL MVP
Born
February 12th, 1988 37 years ago
Played as a running back in the National Football League, primarily with the Dallas Cowboys. Achieved significant success during the 2014 season, leading the league in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns. Received the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award in 2014. Played college football at the University of Oklahoma, where he won the Doak Walker Award as the nation's best running back in 2013.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 8th
Ernst Kretschmer
German psychiatrist and author
Born
October 8th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1964 61 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent psychiatrist in Germany, contributed significantly to the understanding of psychopathy and personality disorders. Developed the body type classification system, relating physical constitution to psychological traits. Authored several influential texts on mental health, impacting the fields of psychology and psychiatry.
Continue ReadingNancy Holt
Sculptor and painter of land art
Born
April 5th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
An American sculptor and painter created large-scale artworks that engaged with the landscape. Significant contributions to the land art movement included installations such as 'Sun Tunnels' and 'Dark Star Park'. Works often integrated natural elements and challenged perceptions of space and environment. Collaborations took place with numerous artists and architects, expanding the reach of land art into broader artistic discourse. Holt's work is featured in major museums and exhibits, reflecting the evolution of contemporary art practices.
Continue ReadingRobert Robinson
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 13th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1975 50 years ago — 88 years old
English chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Conducted extensive research on alkaloids, leading to advancements in understanding their structure and properties. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1947 for work on the structure of certain alkaloids and their synthesis. Served as a professor at several prestigious institutions, influencing future generations of chemists through teaching and mentorship.
Continue ReadingMargaret Forster
Historian and author of acclaimed biographies
Born
May 25th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 77 years old
An English historian, author, and critic, contributed significantly to the literary landscape through numerous biographies and novels. Authored acclaimed works including 'Elizabeth Barrett Browning' and 'Margaret Foster's Diary'. Focused on women's lives and historical narratives, providing depth and insight into her subjects. Also served as a critic and essayist, exploring various themes in literature and culture.
Continue ReadingHalldór Laxness
Icelandic author and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 23rd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1998 27 years ago — 95 years old
One of the most significant figures in Icelandic literature, this author contributed extensively through novels, poetry, and plays. Works often explored themes of identity, nature, and social issues. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1955 for literary achievement, which reflected deep humanism and cultural insight. His writing remains integral to understanding Iceland's literary heritage.
Continue ReadingJohn Murtha
American politician and military officer
Born
June 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2010 15 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a United States Representative from Pennsylvania from 1974 to 2010. Had a long military career, joining the Marines in 1952 and serving in Vietnam, where he experienced combat and was awarded the Bronze Star for valor. Advocated for military and defense issues and was influential in shaping defense policy during his time in Congress. Died in 2010, leaving a legacy of public service and commitment to veterans.
Continue Reading