Louis Godin
French astronomer and academic.
Contributed significantly to the fields of astronomy and geography. Participated in the French Geodesic Mission to Peru in the 18th century, aimed at measuring the degree of meridian curvature. Worked on improving methods for calculating geographical positions using celestial observations. Published various scientific works, enhancing understanding of planetary motion and Earth sciences.
Participated in the French Geodesic Mission to Peru
Published significant astronomy works
Improved methods for celestial observations
Other People Born on February 28th
Jelena Janković
Tennis Player with Grand Slam success
Born
February 28th, 1985 41 years ago
A professional tennis player from Serbia, achieved significant success on the WTA Tour and became the world No. 1 in singles in 2008. Competed at a high level throughout the mid-2000s and 2010s, securing her place among the elite players in the sport. Reached the finals of the 2008 US Open, showcasing her skills against top competitors. Contributed to the Serbian national team in the Fed Cup and was instrumental in leading the team to victory in 2011. Demonstrated versatility on different surfaces, achieving multiple titles and ranking highly in doubles as well.
Continue ReadingRonalds Ķēniņš
Latvian ice hockey player with international experience
Born
February 28th, 1991 35 years ago
Competed as a professional ice hockey player starting in 2008. Played for several teams in various leagues, including spells in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) and the American Hockey League (AHL). Represented Latvia in international competitions, including the IIHF World Championships. Demonstrated skills as a forward, contributing to both club success and national representation.
Continue ReadingWilliam Zorach
Sculptor and painter, created The Sailor
Born
February 28th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1966 59 years ago — 79 years old
A Lithuanian-American sculptor and painter, Zorach emigrated to the United States at a young age. Zorach studied at the National Academy of Design and became part of the American modernist movement. Zorach's work often featured bold forms and dynamic compositions. The Sailor, a prominent sculpture, exemplified his approach. In addition to sculptures, Zorach created paintings that reflected his love for the American landscape. Zorach's contributions to the art world garnered recognition, and he exhibited his work at major institutions, including the Carnegie Institute and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Continue ReadingLuka Dončić
Professional basketball player, NBA star
Born
February 28th, 1999 27 years ago
Played professional basketball in Europe before joining the NBA. Drafted third overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks and subsequently traded to the Dallas Mavericks. Achieved rapid success in the league, earning multiple All-Star selections and winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2019. Acknowledged for exceptional skills as a forward, he became one of the league's premier players.
Continue ReadingJadwiga Piłsudska
Polish soldier and pilot
Born
February 28th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 94 years old
Born on February 28, 1920, Piłsudska served as a soldier during World War II and was a member of the Polish Air Force. She participated in various missions, demonstrating her skills as a pilot. After the war, she pursued a career in architecture. Her work in the field contributed to the post-war reconstruction efforts in Poland. Throughout her life, she remained committed to preserving the legacy of her family and their contributions to Polish history.
Continue ReadingMercedes Ruehl
American actress, Oscar-winning role
Born
February 28th, 1948 78 years ago
A prominent actress, noted for performances on stage and screen. Gained recognition for the role of Bella in the film 'The Fisher King', which earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Also received a Tony Award for her role in 'I'm Not Rappaport' on Broadway. Has appeared in numerous television series including 'The Practice' and 'The World According to Garp'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 11th
Johnny Unitas
American football quarterback, sportscaster
Born
May 7th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2002 23 years ago — 69 years old
Unitas played professional American football primarily as a quarterback for the Baltimore Colts and the San Diego Chargers. He achieved remarkable success in his career, leading the Colts to three NFL championships and a victory in Super Bowl V. Unitas was known for his strong arm, quick decision-making, and innovation in the passing game, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. After retiring from football, he worked as a sportscaster, providing analysis and commentary on various football programs.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-Mizunoo of Japan
Emperor during the Edo period
Born
1596 430 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1680 345 years ago — 84 years old
Ruled as Emperor of Japan from 1611 until abdication in 1629. Oversaw a period marked by both political stability and cultural advancement in the early Edo period. Promoted the arts, particularly Noh theater and literature. Abdicated in favor of his daughter, creating a historical precedent for female succession in the Imperial family. Engaged in political matters behind the scenes following abdication, influencing the court even after stepping down.
Continue ReadingJohn Ritter
Actor in 'Three's Company' and 'Problem Child'
Born
September 17th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2003 22 years ago — 54 years old
An American actor and producer, recognized primarily for roles in television and film. Starred in the sitcom 'Three's Company' from 1977 to 1984, which became a significant part of American pop culture. Portrayed the character of Jack Tripper, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Featured in the movie 'Problem Child' in 1990 and its sequel in 1991, which showcased comedic talent and further solidified a career in family-oriented entertainment. Won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1984 for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series.
Continue ReadingB. J. Habibie
Indonesian engineer and 3rd President
Born
June 25th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2019 6 years ago — 83 years old
An engineer and politician served as the 3rd President of Indonesia from 1998 to 1999. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Minister of Research and Technology and contributed to the development of the Indonesian aviation industry. Initiated several reforms aimed at democratization and economic recovery, following the fall of Suharto's regime.
Continue ReadingJan Smuts
South African politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 24th, 1870 156 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1950 75 years ago — 80 years old
A lawyer and politician, served as the 2nd Prime Minister of South Africa from 1919 to 1924 and again from 1939 to 1948. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Union of South Africa and contributed to the development of South Africa's participation in international affairs, including being a founding member of the United Nations and contributing to the drafting of its charter. Smuts also held the position of Minister of Defense during World War II, where he was involved in strategies that shaped the military efforts of South Africa.
Continue ReadingIan Porterfield
Scottish football manager and player
Born
February 11th, 1946 80 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2007 18 years ago — 61 years old
Played as a midfielder and later managed several football clubs. Made significant contributions to the sport through management roles, particularly with Sunderland, where a famous FA Cup victory occurred in 1973. Also managed various teams including Chelsea, and had a notable tenure in international football with the Scottish national team as well.
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