P. G. T. Beauregard
American Civil War General
P. G. T. Beauregard served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. He achieved prominence for his command in several key battles, including the First Battle of Bull Run and the Siege of Petersburg. His strategic acumen was evident in his role during the defense of Charleston, South Carolina, where he successfully repelled Union forces for an extended period. Following the Civil War, he became involved in railroad construction and worked as a civil engineer.
Commanded Confederate forces at First Bull Run
Led defenses during the Siege of Petersburg
Other People Born on May 28th
Shlomo Riskin
Rabbi and educator, founded Lincoln Square Synagogue
Born
May 28th, 1940 85 years ago
Born in 1940, an American rabbi and academic, founded the Lincoln Square Synagogue in New York City. Played a vital role in modern Orthodox Judaism and promoted Jewish education. Served as the chief rabbi of Efrat, Israel, contributing to Jewish communal life and public discourse. Authored numerous works on Jewish law and philosophy, influencing both synagogue practices and educational structures.
Continue ReadingDanielle Lao
American Tennis Player
Born
May 28th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional tennis player specializing in singles and doubles competitions. Achieved a career-high WTA singles ranking of No. 120 in 2016. Competed in various international tournaments including the US Open and Australian Open. Played collegiately at the University of Southern California, winning multiple NCAA championships before turning professional.
Continue ReadingPierre Séguier
French politician and Lord Chancellor
Born
May 28th, 1588 437 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1672 353 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the Lord Chancellor of France during the 17th century. Played a significant role in the legal and political landscape of France under King Louis XIII. Contributed to legal reforms and the administration of justice. Presided over notable court cases and played a part in consolidating royal authority through judicial authority.
Continue ReadingGordon Willis
Cinematographer for The Godfather series
Born
May 28th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
This American cinematographer gained recognition for work in several acclaimed films, particularly noted for the distinctive visual styles in The Godfather Trilogy and Annie Hall. With a career spanning several decades, contributions led to advancements in cinematic techniques, influencing film aesthetics. Collaborated closely with prominent directors, shaping the look of modern cinema and establishing a legacy within the industry. Received several accolades for cinematography, including nominations for Academy Awards, although never winning, highlighting the quality and impact of the work.
Continue ReadingKail Piho
Estonian skier, competed in World Cup
Born
May 28th, 1991 34 years ago
Competed in international alpine skiing events representing Estonia. Participated in FIS Alpine Ski World Cup races and had significant placements. Achieved notable rankings in various competitions throughout the skiing seasons, contributing to the country's representation in winter sports.
Continue ReadingYouri Egorov
Pianist acclaimed for classical performances
Born
May 28th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1988 37 years ago — 33 years old
Acclaimed Russian pianist specialized in classical music. Gained prominence during the 1980s and earned recognition for exceptional technique and emotional depth in performances. Became a notable figure in the international music scene, performing across Europe and recording several albums. Contributed significantly to the repertoire performance of composers like Chopin and Rachmaninoff. Despite a shortened career due to health issues, left a lasting legacy through recordings that are still celebrated today.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 20th
Pope Martin V
Pope and leader of the Catholic Church
Born
1368 657 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1431 594 years ago — 63 years old
Served as Pope from 1417 until death in 1431. Played a crucial role in ending the Western Schism, which had divided the Catholic Church for nearly four decades. Convened the Council of Constance, which sought to address various church disputes and improve ecclesiastical practices. Focused on the restoration of the papacy's authority in Rome and worked to mend divisions within the church.
Continue ReadingSandra Dee
American actress, starred in Gidget
Born
April 23rd, 1942 83 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 62 years old
An actress achieved fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Gained recognition for starring in films such as 'Gidget', 'A Summer Place', and 'Take Her, She's Mine'. Appeared in numerous television shows, becoming a popular figure in teen films. Became a teen idol and appeared on magazine covers, symbolizing the era's youth culture. Struggled with personal challenges later in life.
Continue ReadingDavid S. McKay
American biochemist and geologist
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
A biochemist and geologist, contributed to the understanding of extraterrestrial life's potential by studying Martian meteorites. Worked at NASA's Johnson Space Center and participated in the analysis of samples brought back from the Moon during the Apollo missions. His research focused on recognizing biological signatures in ancient rocks, enhancing the search for life beyond Earth.
Continue ReadingMildred Dresselhaus
American physicist and 'Queen of Carbon'
Born
November 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old
Contributions to the field of physics focused on carbon nanostructures and materials. Played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding of thermoelectric materials. Served as a professor at MIT, influencing generations of students in the field of physics and electrical engineering. Received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Continue ReadingJacob Gade
Danish violinist and composer of tango
Born
November 29th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1963 62 years ago — 83 years old
A renowned violinist and composer, primarily active in the early 20th century. Gade gained significant recognition for his contributions to the genre of tango music. His composition 'Jalousie' became immensely popular worldwide and remains a classic. Trained in classical music, Gade blended traditional styles with contemporary influences to create memorable pieces. He performed extensively throughout Europe, showcasing his skills as a virtuoso violinist. Through performances and compositions, he left an enduring legacy in the music community.
Continue ReadingTobias Mayer
Astronomer and academic, lunar maps
Born
February 17th, 1723 302 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1762 263 years ago — 39 years old
German astronomer and academic contributed significantly to celestial cartography and lunar mapping. Published methods for calculating lunar positions and developed a detailed lunar map that aided navigation at sea. Engaged with contemporary scientific communities and influenced future astronomical studies. His work was recognized for improving the accuracy of lunar observations and providing valuable resources for sailors and navigators.
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