Omar Torrijos
Panamanian military leader and politician
A prominent military leader and politician in Panama, commanded the National Guard and served as the de facto leader from 1968 until his death in 1981. Established policies focused on social reforms and advocated for the sovereignty of Panama over the Panama Canal, leading to negotiations that culminated in the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, signed in 1977. These treaties facilitated the eventual handover of control of the Panama Canal from the United States to Panama, enhancing national pride and control over its resources.
Led Panama from 1968 to 1981
Signed the Torrijos-Carter Treaties
Other People Born on February 13th
Aung San
Burmese general and politician
Born
February 13th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1947 78 years ago — 32 years old
Served as a general in the Burma Independence Army and played a significant role in the struggle for independence from British rule. Became the 5th Premier of the British Crown Colony of Burma in 1947. Instrumental in the formation of the Anti-Fascist People’s Freedom League and in negotiations with the British government for Burma's independence. Assassinated in 1947 shortly after securing the promise of full independence.
Continue ReadingMichael Turner
American football running back, Pro Bowler
Born
February 13th, 1982 43 years ago
Played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for the San Diego Chargers and the Atlanta Falcons. Achieved significant success during the career, including selection to the Pro Bowl in multiple years. Gained recognition for powerful running style and ability to break tackles, which contributed to his teams' offensive strategies. Accumulated over 8,000 rushing yards during the NFL career and was a key contributor to the Falcons' offense, particularly during the late 2000s. Notably led the league in rushing touchdowns during the 2008 season and played an instrumental role in Atlanta's playoff runs.
Continue ReadingFay Ajzenberg-Selove
Nuclear Physicist with key research
Born
February 13th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
An American nuclear physicist contributed significantly to the field of nuclear physics, particularly in the study of nuclear reactions. Secured a faculty position at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, specializing in experimental nuclear physics. Published several influential papers that advanced understanding of nuclear structures and reactions. A strong advocate for women in science, promoting their participation in the field throughout her career.
Continue ReadingLuke Voit
Baseball player and Home Run Derby champion
Born
February 13th, 1991 34 years ago
An American baseball player, significant contributions occurred primarily as a first baseman. Voit played for the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, and San Diego Padres across Major League Baseball. A notable achievement includes winning the Home Run Derby in 2021. Voit also led the American League in home runs during the 2020 season, showcasing impressive power at the plate.
Continue ReadingOliver Reed
English actor in 'Gladiator'
Born
February 13th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1999 26 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 ReadingChuck Yeager
US Air Force General and test pilot
Born
February 13th, 1923 102 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on July 31st
Tony Sly
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 4th, 1970 55 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent figure in the punk rock scene, Sly was a key member of the band NOFX. He gained recognition for his songwriting and melodic style, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. Sly released solo albums, showcasing his acoustic and lyrical talents. His work resonated with fans, solidifying his status in the music community. In addition to performing, Sly participated in various collaborations, further expanding his reach in the genre.
Continue ReadingFidel V. Ramos
Filipino general and 12th President
Born
March 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 94 years old
Served as the 12th President of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998. Held various key military and political roles prior to the presidency, including Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. His administration focused on economic reforms and national stability. Played a significant role in the 1986 People Power Revolution that ousted Ferdinand Marcos. Ramos pursued infrastructure projects and fostered a more open economy.
Continue ReadingHoward W. Jones
Surgeon and academic associated with IVF
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 105 years old
Practiced as a prominent surgeon and made significant contributions to the field of reproductive medicine. Co-founded the Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine in Virginia. Pioneered in vitro fertilization techniques in the United States, aiding in the birth of the first IVF baby in the U.S. His research and expertise in assisted reproductive technology established new protocols that transformed fertility treatments.
Continue ReadingSeymour Papert
Mathematician and computer scientist
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent mathematician and computer scientist, contributed to the development of artificial intelligence and educational technology. Participated in the creation of the Logo programming language, which emphasizes learning through exploration. Worked at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where significant research focused on the intersection of education and technology. Authored influential works that addressed how children learn and interact with technology in educational settings.
Continue ReadingAngus Cloud
Actor from HBO's Euphoria
Born
1998 27 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2023 2 years ago — 25 years old
An actor gained recognition for portraying Fezco in the HBO series Euphoria. The character earned a significant fan base due to its unique personality and storyline. Cloud's performance contributed to the show's critical acclaim and popularity. Prior to his role in Euphoria, the actor had minimal experience in the entertainment industry, having been discovered by a casting agent while walking down the street. His portrayal resonated with audiences and solidified his place in contemporary television. Cloud's sudden passing in July 2023 shocked fans and the entertainment community.
Continue ReadingJim Reeves
American country music singer
Born
August 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1964 61 years ago — 40 years old
A prominent figure in country music, this singer-songwriter became widely recognized for his smooth voice and romantic ballads during the 1950s and 1960s. Popular hits include 'Four Walls,' 'He’ll Have to Go,' and 'Distant Drums.' These songs topped charts and became staples in the country music genre. His style blended traditional country with elements of pop and jazz, appealing to a broad audience. The singer's career was marked by significant commercial success and a strong fan base, further solidified by numerous posthumous releases that featured his work. The legacy of this artist continues to influence country music.
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