Norm Van Brocklin
American football player and coach, NFL MVP
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An American football player and coach recognized for contributions to both playing and coaching in the NFL. Played quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles. Achieved NFL MVP honors in 1960. Served as head coach for various teams, most notably the Atlanta Falcons and the Minnesota Vikings, leading the Vikings to an NFL Championship in 1970.
Played quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams
Achieved NFL MVP in 1960
Coached the Minnesota Vikings to an NFL Championship in 1970
Other People Born on March 15th
Mike Tomlin
American football coach, Super Bowl champion
Born
March 15th, 1972 53 years ago
Began coaching career as a defensive backs coach at the University of Memphis before moving to the NFL. Joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a defensive coordinator in 2007. Hired as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2007, becoming the youngest head coach to win a Super Bowl with the Steelers in Super Bowl XLIII. Has consistently led the team to playoff appearances and achieved a reputation for developing strong defenses.
Continue ReadingKristian Kostov
Singer-songwriter, Eurovision contestant
Born
March 15th, 2000 25 years ago
Born in 2000, a singer-songwriter from Russia and Bulgaria rose to prominence after competing in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017, representing Bulgaria with the song "Beautiful Mess." The performance earned significant attention and a top placement in the competition. Apart from Eurovision, several singles were released, showcasing a blend of pop and contemporary styles, contributing to a growing fan base. Collaborations with various artists helped expand the musical repertoire, and diverse performances in different venues further established a presence in the music industry.
Continue ReadingGilberto Freyre
Brazilian sociologist and cultural theorist
Born
March 15th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1987 38 years ago — 87 years old
Freyre advanced the study of Brazilian culture and society through his work as a sociologist, anthropologist, and historian. His seminal book, 'Casa-Grande e Senzala' (The Masters and the Slaves), published in 1933, explored the complex interactions between the country's Portuguese settlers, African slaves, and Indigenous peoples. This work laid the foundation for understanding the formation of Brazilian identity. Freyre's scholarship integrated notions of miscegenation and cultural diversity, challenging the prevailing narratives of racial purity in Latin America. His writings on social structure, family dynamics, and cultural norms significantly influenced Brazilian intellectual thought and discussions on social issues. Freyre's career encompassed roles in education, public service, and as a writer, contributing to numerous publications throughout his life.
Continue ReadingSérgio Vieira de Mello
Brazilian diplomat and UN official
Born
March 15th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2003 22 years ago — 55 years old
Born in Brazil in 1948, this diplomat dedicated over 30 years to international service with the United Nations. Positions included High Commissioner for Human Rights and Special Representative for Iraq following the 2003 invasion. Engaged extensively in peacekeeping and humanitarian missions in various conflict zones. Emphasized the importance of human rights and diplomatic solutions in crisis situations. Played a pivotal role in rebuilding countries emerging from conflict, bringing a focus on local issues and cultural understanding.
Continue ReadingGeorge Brent
Irish-American actor in classic films
Born
March 15th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1979 46 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Ireland, later moved to the United States, where a successful acting career unfolded. Became prominent during the Golden Age of Hollywood, frequently cast in romantic dramas and comedies. Starred in numerous films during the 1930s and 1940s, gaining popularity for roles alongside leading actresses of the time. Appeared in films such as 'The Maltese Falcon' and 'The Case of the Curious Bride.' Known for a smooth demeanor and strong screen presence, contributed to the film industry through both acting and production roles until retirement.
Continue ReadingPhilippe de Broca
French Actor and Film Director
Born
March 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2004 21 years ago — 71 years old
Born in France, this individual was a prominent actor, director, and screenwriter in the French film industry. Made significant contributions to cinema, particularly known for directing comedies and adventure films during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated with notable actors and produced several films that became cultural references in French cinema. Notable works include 'That Man from Rio' and 'The Man from Acapulco.' Received recognition for blending humor with adventure and his unique storytelling style.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 2nd
Tom Wills
Australian cricketer and football co-creator
Born
August 19th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1880 145 years ago — 44 years old
An Australian cricketer and a key figure in the formation of Australian rules football contributed significantly to the sport's early development. Played as a bowler and batsman for the Melbourne Cricket Club and participated in the first-ever intercolonial match in 1851. In 1858, played a pivotal role in creating Australian rules football while serving as a cricketer. Involved in the establishment of the first set of rules for the new game, which later evolved into a distinct sport.
Continue ReadingRodolfo Pio da Carpi
Italian cardinal with papal influence
Born
February 22nd, 1500 525 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1564 461 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1500, served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church. Played a key role in the papal court, influencing ecclesiastical decisions. Promoted various reforms within the church and actively participated in the political and religious affairs of the time. Contributed to the understanding of art and architecture through patronage, notably fostering the works of prominent artists associated with the Renaissance.
Continue ReadingAfeni Shakur
Music businesswoman and activist
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 69 years old
A music businesswoman, activist, and former member of the Black Panther Party. Played a crucial role in the life and career of her son, Tupac Shakur, influencing his artistry and activism. Involved in legal battles over Tupac's estate, helping to shape the legacy of his music and cultural impact. Worked to ensure that his music and message lived on, advocating for social justice and equality through various initiatives. Contributed to the Black Panther Party's efforts during the 1960s and 1970s, focusing on community outreach and empowerment.
Continue ReadingRonald Barnes
English cricketer and politician
Born
April 16th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1963 62 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 3rd Baron Gorell and contributed to cricket as a player. Played first-class cricket for Sussex County Cricket Club. Engaged in journalism and contributed to political discourse as a member of the House of Lords. Involved in various charitable and social causes throughout the career.
Continue ReadingErnest Starling
English physiologist and academic
Born
April 17th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1927 98 years ago — 61 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physiology, particularly through the establishment of the Starling Law of the Heart, which describes the relationship between the heart's filling and its contraction strength. His research included the role of hormones in bodily functions and the development of techniques for measuring blood pressure and heart functions. Starling conducted extensive studies on the actions of the thyroid gland and the role of the pancreas in digestion, helping to lay the groundwork for future research in these areas.
Continue ReadingLaurence Hyde
English politician and First Lord of Treasury
Born
1641 384 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1711 314 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a prominent English politician during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Held the title of 1st Earl of Rochester and played a significant role in the administration as First Lord of the Treasury. Involved in various political matters of the time, contributing to the governance and fiscal policies of England. Engaged in numerous diplomatic and administrative tasks that shaped the political landscape during a transformative era.
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