Margaret Leighton
English actress in film and theater
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An accomplished English actress, contributions spanned stage and film. Gained recognition for roles in productions such as 'The Go-Between' and 'The Sea Gull.' Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Received acclaim for performances in various high-profile plays, including works by Noël Coward. Also featured in popular films during the mid-20th century, enhancing a prominent acting career.
Starred in 'The Go-Between'
Received an Oscar nomination for 'Anna Karenina'
Performed in the stage production of 'The Sea Gull'
Other People Born on February 26th
Simon Crean
Trade union leader and Australian politician
Born
February 26th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
June 25th, 2023 2 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a prominent trade union leader and politician in Australia. Held the role of leader of the Australian Labor Party from 2001 to 2003. Served as the Minister for Trade and the Minister for Regional Development, where significant contributions were made to labor policies and international trade agreements. Represented the electorate of Hotham in the House of Representatives from 1990 to 2013, participating in various legislative efforts during a pivotal time in Australian politics.
Continue ReadingPaul Cotton
Singer-songwriter and guitarist, Poco
Born
February 26th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed significantly to the country rock genre. Joined the band Poco in 1970, playing a pivotal role in the group's success. Instrumental in the creation of several popular albums and singles. Additionally, pursued a solo career with several releases that showcased his songwriting and guitar skills.
Continue ReadingMaria Amalia
Duchess of Parma and Piacenza
Born
February 26th, 1746 279 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1804 221 years ago — 58 years old
Born into the House of Bourbon, assumed the title of Duchess of Parma in 1748 after her marriage to Duke Ferdinand of Parma. Managed the duchy during a period marked by political changes and military conflicts in Europe. Fostered artistic and cultural developments in Parma, supporting various artists and architects. Held court in a fashionable palace while navigating the complexities of European nobility and alliances.
Continue ReadingArchibald Campbell
Scottish peer and 9th Earl of Argyll
Born
February 26th, 1629 396 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1661 364 years ago — 32 years old
Born in 1629, a Scottish peer served as the 9th Earl of Argyll. Engaged in the political and military conflicts during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, he played a significant role in the Scottish Covenanters' struggle against royal authority. Initially siding with the Parliamentarians, eventually changed allegiance and supported the King. Was involved in key battles and governance during a tumultuous time in Scottish history. Was captured and executed in 1661 following conflicts related to his loyalty shifts and political maneuvers.
Continue ReadingMitch Ryder
Singer-songwriter with Devil with a Blue Dress
Born
February 26th, 1945 80 years ago
Born in 1945, this singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1960s. The career began with the group Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels, achieving commercial success with hits such as 'Devil with a Blue Dress On' and 'Sock It to Me, Baby!'. The music style blended rock, soul, and rhythm and blues, contributing to the garage rock genre. In the 1980s, a resurgence occurred with performances and recordings that showcased a more mature sound. Collaborations with prominent musicians further solidified the legacy in the American music scene.
Continue ReadingAriel Sharon
Israeli General and Prime Minister
Born
February 26th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2014 12 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 11th Prime Minister of Israel from 2001 to 2006. Held various significant military and governmental positions throughout career. Initially gained prominence as a military leader during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and later as a commander in multiple conflicts, including the Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War. Became a prominent figure in Israeli politics, shaping policies during critical periods, including the Lebanon War in 1982. Advocated for the disengagement from Gaza in 2005, which led to the withdrawal of Israeli troops and settlers from the region. His political career was marked by a blend of military and civilian leadership.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 13th
Edmund Spenser
English poet, author of The Faerie Queene
Born
1552 474 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1599 427 years ago — 47 years old
An English poet served as Chief Secretary for Ireland. He composed significant works in the late 16th century, particularly admired for the epic poem 'The Faerie Queene', which celebrated Queen Elizabeth I and explored themes of virtue and knighthood. The work is noted for its rich allegory and innovative use of the Spenserian stanza. Spenser's writing style influenced many subsequent poets and contributed to the development of English literature. His tenure in Ireland informed his later works, reflecting the complexities of colonial rule and his observations on Irish culture.
Continue ReadingH. B. Higgins
Australian politician and Attorney-General
Born
1851 175 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1929 97 years ago — 78 years old
H. B. Higgins served as the Attorney-General of Australia from 1904 to 1905 and was a key figure in the development of Australian law during the early 20th century. Appointed as a judge of the High Court of Australia in 1906, contributed significantly to the legal landscape of the nation. His work emphasized the importance of individual rights and social justice within the legal framework. Throughout his career, he was instrumental in several landmark rulings that shaped Australian jurisprudence, focusing on issues related to workers' rights and the legal rights of individuals. Additionally, he was involved in various political activities advocating for labor rights and legislation supporting the welfare of the community.
Continue ReadingGuido Dessauer
German physicist and engineer
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2012 14 years ago — 97 years old
Contributions included work in electromagnetic theory and engineering. Developed designs for advanced optical systems. Made advancements in high-frequency technology and microwave engineering. Published numerous research papers in the field of physics and engineering. Worked extensively in academia and industry, particularly in enhancing communication technologies.
Continue ReadingJan Brueghel the Elder
Flemish painter of detailed landscapes
Born
1568 458 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1625 401 years ago — 57 years old
This artist specialized in the painting of landscapes, genre scenes, and allegorical works during the late Renaissance period. Active in Antwerp, notable for collaboration with prominent contemporaries such as Peter Paul Rubens. Created remarkable still lifes, particularly floral arrangements, that displayed intricate detail and vibrancy. Contributed significantly to the genre of landscape painting, influencing future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingMungo
Bishop and saint in Christianity
Died
January 13th, 614 1412 years ago — None years old
Mungo served as a bishop in the 6th century, establishing the Christian faith in what is now Glasgow, Scotland. Recognized as a patron saint, he led efforts to convert the local population to Christianity. His legacy includes the founding of a church, which became a critical site for worship and community in the area. Mungo is often associated with several miracles attributed to him, which contributed to his status as a saint within the Christian tradition.
Continue ReadingThomas Lord
Cricketer and founder of Lord's Cricket Ground
Born
1755 271 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1832 194 years ago — 77 years old
Established the famous Lord's Cricket Ground in London. Played a significant role in the development of cricket as a sport in England during the 18th century. Lord's Cricket Ground became one of the most prestigious venues for cricket matches and is often referred to as the 'Home of Cricket'. The ground hosts international matches, including Test cricket, and is the home of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).
Continue Reading