Michael Anthony Bilandic
American politician, 49th Mayor of Chicago
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as the 49th Mayor of Chicago from 1976 to 1979. Focused on improving city infrastructure and housing. Oversaw the city during significant events, including the blizzard of 1979, which highlighted issues in city services. After losing re-election, continued to be involved in local politics and law until death in 2002.
Served as the 49th Mayor of Chicago
Implemented urban renewal projects
Other People Born on February 13th
Chuck Yeager
US Air Force General and test pilot
Born
February 13th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 97 years old
A pioneering test pilot and U.S. Air Force general, achieved a significant milestone in aviation history by breaking the sound barrier in 1947. Yeager's flight aboard the Bell X-1, named Glamorous Glennis, marked the first time a human surpassed the speed of sound. Following this groundbreaking achievement, Yeager continued to contribute to the field of aviation through numerous test flights and military service during World War II and the Vietnam War. Later, he served as a key figure in aerospace research, sharing expertise with various aircraft programs.
Continue ReadingGeorgy Beriev
Engineer and aviation designer
Born
February 13th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
1979 47 years ago — 76 years old
An engineer of Georgian-Russian descent, played a significant role in aviation design by founding the Beriev Design Bureau, which focused on developing amphibious aircraft. This design bureau contributed to various notable models throughout its history and became recognized for innovations in aeronautics. The Beriev aircraft were utilized by both military and civilian sectors, addressing specific needs for versatility in different environments. The legacy of this engineer includes contributions to the fields of aviation and engineering through a dedicated focus on specialized aircraft designs.
Continue ReadingDonnie Moore
Baseball player, pitcher for Angels
Born
February 13th, 1954 72 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1989 36 years ago — 35 years old
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1978, played as a pitcher primarily for the California Angels. Career spanned a decade, concluding in 1987. Appeared in 1986 postseason, contributing to the Angels' first playoff appearance in franchise history. Known for a notable performance in relief during the league championship series.
Continue ReadingGeorgios Papandreou
Prime Minister of Greece during WWII
Born
February 13th, 1888 138 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1968 57 years ago — 80 years old
A lawyer and economist, served as the 162nd Prime Minister of Greece. Held office during a critical period of World War II, facing significant challenges related to the occupation of Greece. Engaged in political activity prior to and following the war, contributing to the discussions on democracy and governance in Greece. Also served as the mayor of Athens, advocating for urban development. His political career spanned several decades, influencing post-war policies.
Continue ReadingOliver Reed
English actor in 'Gladiator'
Born
February 13th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1999 27 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1938, an English actor gained recognition for a commanding screen presence and intense performances. Career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1950s. Achievement includes a role in the Oscar-winning film 'Gladiator.' Also appeared in notable films such as 'The Curse of the Werewolf' and 'The Three Musketeers.' Worked in theater and television, showcasing versatility across different media. Reed's off-screen personality was as striking as his on-screen roles, contributing to a public image that blended charm with unpredictability.
Continue ReadingWilliam Shockley
Physicist and Nobel laureate in physics
Born
February 13th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1989 36 years ago — 79 years old
An English-American physicist and academic, contributions included the invention of the transistor, which significantly advanced electronic technology. Affiliated with Stanford University, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1956 along with John Bardeen and Walter Brattain for their roles in the development of the transistor. Later focused on controversial research related to genetics and intelligence.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 15th
Ervin Drake
American songwriter and composer
Born
April 3rd, 1919 107 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent songwriter and composer, contributed to the American music scene through several well-loved songs. Created classics that have been performed and recorded by numerous artists over the decades. Collaborated with various musicians and worked on Broadway shows, leaving a lasting legacy within the music industry.
Continue ReadingCarlo Fruttero
Italian journalist and author, editor
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2012 14 years ago — 86 years old
An Italian journalist and author, contributed extensively to literature and journalism in Italy. Worked as an editor and wrote numerous novels, essays, and articles. Partnered with another prominent writer to produce several successful works. Many publications featured insights on culture and society, reflecting contemporary issues during the time. Achieved recognition for integrating genres in storytelling, blending elements of mystery and satire.
Continue ReadingHenri Braconnot
French chemist and pharmacist
Born
May 29th, 1780 245 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1855 171 years ago — 74 years old
Contributions include investigations in the field of carbohydrates and organic chemistry. Discovered and described the process of hydrolysis of starch and cellulose. Developed methods for extracting and utilizing cellulose from various plants. Published significant works detailing botanical products and their chemical properties.
Continue ReadingMathew Brady
Photographer known for Civil War imagery
Born
May 18th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1896 130 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent American photographer and journalist, contributed significantly to the field of photography during the Civil War. Established a studio in New York City and captured some of the earliest and most impactful images of wartime. Influenced the public's perception of the war through compelling portraits of soldiers and battlefield scenes. Innovations in photographic techniques expanded the medium's capabilities, making the photographs significant historical documents. Played a pivotal role in bringing photography into public awareness.
Continue ReadingEliza McCardle Johnson
First Lady of the United States
Born
1810 216 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1876 150 years ago — 66 years old
Served as First Lady during the presidency of Andrew Johnson from 1865 to 1869. Helped in the social and political functions of the White House, providing support during the turbulent post-Civil War era. Managed the household and entertained guests, playing a role in maintaining the public image of the presidency. Faced challenges due to her husband's impeachment and the scrutiny that surrounded his administration. Eliza was known for her strength and resilience during this tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingLady Hamilton
Mistress of Horatio Nelson
Born
1761 265 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1815 211 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent figure in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, famous for the romantic liaison with Horatio Nelson, the British naval hero. Played a significant role in British society through various social and political connections. Engaged in various artistic endeavors and became a muse for artists during that period. Her life intertwined with historical events of her time, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars, providing insights into the personal lives of notable figures in British history.
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