Lee Petty
Race car driver, three-time NASCAR champion

Born
March 14th, 1914
111 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2000
25 years ago — 86 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent figure in the history of stock car racing, contributed significantly to the sport's development in the 1940s and 1950s. Won three NASCAR Grand National championships in 1954, 1958, and 1959. Participated in a total of 1,100 races, achieving a record of 54 wins during his career. Played a vital role in establishing the Petty family legacy in racing, which continued with his son Richard Petty and grandson Kyle Petty.
Won three NASCAR Grand National championships
Achieved 54 career race wins in NASCAR
Other People Born on March 14th
Umberto I of Italy
Reigned as the King of Italy from 1878 until his assassination in 1900. His reign was marked by industrial growth and the expansion of the Italian empire overseas. Focused on anti-socialist policies and aimed at strengthening the monarchy. His government faced significant political strife and social unrest during this period. Advocated for imperialism, leading to military conflicts in Africa. Assassinated by an anarchist in 1900, triggering national mourning and a reevaluation of political policies.
Continue ReadingLucy Hobbs Taylor
Became the first woman in the United States to graduate from a dental college in 1866. Established a successful dental practice in Iowa and later in Chicago. Played a role in advocating for women's rights within the field of dentistry. Contributed to the education of future dentists as an educator and mentor.
Continue ReadingLarry Johnson
Played professional basketball primarily as a forward. Had a successful career in the NBA, playing for the Charlotte Hornets and the New York Knicks. Achieved All-Star status and won the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year award. Transitioned to acting, appearing in the film 'Space Jam' alongside Michael Jordan. Also featured in television shows.
Continue ReadingVictor Emmanuel II of Italy
Served as King of Sardinia from 1849 and became the first King of Italy in 1861. Played a pivotal role in the unification of Italy, overseeing significant military campaigns and political maneuvers that consolidated various states into a single nation. His reign witnessed the annexation of territories, including Lombardy and the Two Sicilies, ultimately leading to the establishment of Italy as a kingdom. Held the throne until death in 1878, leaving a legacy in the formation of modern Italy.
Continue ReadingTyson Jost
An ice hockey player with experience in the National Hockey League, played for the Colorado Avalanche. Entered professional ice hockey after being drafted in the first round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Contributed to various teams in the league during his career, showcasing skills as a forward. Participated in international competitions, representing Canada at junior levels.
Continue ReadingEugene Cernan
Served as a United States Navy officer and aviator. Participated in three NASA missions: Gemini 9A, Apollo 10, and Apollo 17. Commanded Apollo 17, which was the last manned mission to the Moon. Walked on the lunar surface, becoming the last person to leave the Moon. Contributed to extensive scientific research and exploration during space missions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Milivoje Blaznavac
Played a significant role in the Serbian wars of independence. Acted as a member of the Serbian national assembly and contributed to the political landscape of Serbia during the 19th century. Served in various military campaigns that aimed at establishing Serbian sovereignty. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to garner support for Serbian independence.
Continue ReadingMark St. John
A guitarist provided significant contributions to the rock band KISS during the 1980s. His tenure with KISS included the recording of the band's 1985 album, 'Asylum,' and his distinctive guitar playing was featured in the tour supporting that album. St. John's style combined heavy metal techniques and classical music influences, contributing to the band's signature sound. In addition to his work with KISS, he collaborated with various artists and bands throughout his career, showcasing his versatility and technical skill on the guitar.
Continue ReadingPrincess Charlotte Wilhelmine of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld
Born into the Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld family, this princess became the Duchess of Saxe-Coburg as the consort of Ernest Frederick. Her marriage strengthened the political relationships between families of German nobility. While little is recorded about her personal life, her position contributed to the lineage that eventually connected to later European royalty. She remained in her role until her death in 1767.
Continue ReadingBernard Borggreve
Contributed significantly to the field of forestry science. Focused on the study of forest ecosystems and sustainable practices. Conducted extensive research on the growth, management, and conservation of forests in Germany. His works were influential in shaping modern forestry.
Continue ReadingKarl-Otto Koch
Served as an officer in the Schutzstaffel (SS) during World War II, leading various operations. Oversaw the concentration camps at Buchenwald and later at Dachau. Became involved in various activities associated with the Nazi regime's internment and extermination efforts. His actions as a camp commandant were marked by brutality and harsh conditions for prisoners. Arrested in 1945 by fellow SS members and faced charges for corruption and abuse.
Continue ReadingCarlos Prío Socarrás
Served as President of Cuba from 1948 until 1952. His term was marked by political instability and growing opposition from various groups, including Fidel Castro's movement. Prío Socarrás sought to modernize the Cuban economy and improve relations with the United States. His administration faced challenges such as corruption, labor strikes, and rising unrest. In March 1952, a military coup led by Fulgencio Batista ousted him from power, which resulted in his exile. After the coup, he lived in various countries, including the United States and Mexico, until returning to Cuba after the Cuban Revolution in later years. Prío Socarrás passed away in 1977.
Continue Reading