Marc Mitscher
American admiral and naval aviator
Served as an admiral in the United States Navy, excelling as a naval aviator and commander during World War II. Played a crucial role in the development and operational deployment of naval aviation, leading air operations in the Pacific Theater. Commanded the Fast Carrier Task Force, driving significant victories against Japanese forces. Instrumental in strategies that enhanced the effectiveness of carrier-based aviation. Contributed to the planning of assaults that led to key victories in the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Battle of Iwo Jima.
Commanded the Fast Carrier Task Force
Led air operations during World War II
Played a significant role in the Battle of Leyte Gulf
Other People Born on January 26th
Esteban Germán
Dominican baseball player and infielder
Born
January 26th, 1978 47 years ago
Played in Major League Baseball as an infielder. Debuted in 2004 with the Oakland Athletics and had stints with the Kansas City Royals and the San Diego Padres. Known for versatility on the field, played multiple positions including second base and shortstop. Continued to play in professional baseball in the Dominican Republic after leaving MLB.
Continue ReadingSeán Flanagan
Irish footballer and politician, Minister
Born
January 26th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1993 32 years ago — 71 years old
An Irish footballer and politician, held the position of the 7th Minister for Health. Played as a midfielder for clubs such as Sligo Rovers and was part of the Irish national team. Engaged in political activities and served in various governmental roles, emphasizing health policies. Contributed to the development of health services in Ireland during a period of significant changes.
Continue ReadingJimmy Van Heusen
American pianist and composer of standards
Born
January 26th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1990 35 years ago — 77 years old
This American pianist and composer became prominent in the mid-20th century, celebrated for contributions to popular music and film. Collaborated with lyricists like Johnny Mercer and Sammy Cahn to create numerous timeless songs. Composed scores for films, including "The Tender Trap" and "High Society." Won four Academy Awards for Best Original Song. Contributed significantly to the Great American Songbook.
Continue ReadingKim Hughes
Australian cricketer and captain
Born
January 26th, 1954 71 years ago
Played Test cricket for Australia from 1977 to 1984 and captained the national team. Made his debut against Pakistan and was part of the team that won the 1977 Ashes series. Served as captain during a challenging period in Australian cricket and led the team in 28 Test matches. Known for his batting skills, particularly in the middle order, and for his ability to play spin bowling effectively.
Continue ReadingRoad Warrior Hawk
Professional wrestler and tag team champion
Born
January 26th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
October 19th, 2003 22 years ago — 46 years old
A professional wrestler gained fame as one half of the tag team known as the Road Warriors. This team achieved significant success in various wrestling promotions and captured multiple tag team championships, including the NWA World Tag Team Championship and the WCW World Tag Team Championship. The Road Warriors were known for their distinctive appearance, characterized by face paint and spiked shoulder pads, and their powerful in-ring style. Their influence extended beyond the ring, as they became icons in the wrestling industry during the 1980s and 1990s, inspiring future generations of wrestlers with their persona and performance style. In addition to tag team accolades, individual contributions to the sport included participation in high-profile wrestling events, showcasing their abilities and charisma.
Continue ReadingAncel Keys
Physiologist and Nutritionist, created K-rations
Born
January 26th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 100 years old
Contributions to the field of nutrition included extensive research on dietary fats and heart disease. Developed the Mediterranean diet concept based on studies conducted in different countries. Conducted the Seven Countries Study, which examined the correlation between diet, lifestyle, and cardiovascular health across various populations. Designed K-rations for the U.S. military during World War II to provide soldiers with nutrient-dense food.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 3rd
Zalman King
Actor and director of erotic films
Born
May 23rd, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
An actor, director, and producer, contributed significantly to the genre of erotic cinema. Created and produced the television series "Red Shoe Diaries," which became a cult classic. Directed and produced the film "9½ Weeks," a notable work that explored themes of sensuality. Worked on various other film and television projects throughout a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingBenjamin R. Jacobs
American biochemist and researcher
Born
March 15th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1963 62 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry, particularly in the study of proteins and enzymes. Focused research on nucleoproteins and their role in cellular processes. His findings advanced the understanding of metabolic pathways and enzymatic functions. Held various academic positions and published numerous research papers that influenced future studies in biochemistry.
Continue ReadingTommaso Ceva
Italian mathematician and academic
Born
1648 377 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1737 288 years ago — 89 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics in the 17th and early 18th centuries. His work primarily focused on geometry and mechanics. Published 'De Sacra Geometria' which presented innovative ideas on geometric proportions. Also involved in various academic endeavors, teaching and influencing the mathematical community of the time.
Continue ReadingJohn IV
German Count and military leader
Born
August 1st, 1410 615 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1475 550 years ago — 64 years old
Count of Nassau-Siegen held significant territorial influence in the Holy Roman Empire. Engaged in military campaigns during the late 15th century, focusing on the consolidation of power within his domains. The count established a strong lineage that played a prominent role in regional politics and military affairs. He governed with strategic foresight, navigating the complex relationships among nobles and the emperor. His contributions to the military and administrative structures of his time set a precedent for future governance in the region.
Continue ReadingÉmile Borel
Mathematician and French politician
Born
January 7th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1956 69 years ago — 85 years old
Contributions included significant work in measure theory and probability. Borel was a prominent figure in the establishment of the theory of sets of measure. In addition to mathematical achievements, he served as a member of the French parliament. He played a key role in promoting education and science policy in France.
Continue ReadingCharlie Sifford
Professional golfer, first African American on PGA Tour
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old
Became the first African American to compete on the PGA Tour after breaking racial barriers in professional golf. Won the 1967 Greater Hartford Open and the 1975 Long Beach Open. Pioneered the path for future generations of golfers. Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2014, recognizing contributions to the sport.
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