Paddy Ashdown
British politician and soldier
Served as a British soldier in the Royal Marines and later became a prominent politician. Co-founded the Liberal Democrat party in 1988 and served as its first leader until 1999. Represented Yeovil in the House of Commons and played a significant role in the Northern Ireland peace process. Worked on various international assignments, including the role of High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Founded the Liberal Democrat party
Served as leader of the Liberal Democrats
Acted as High Representative in Bosnia
Other People Born on February 27th
John Connally
American politician and Treasury Secretary
Born
February 27th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1993 32 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 39th Governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969. Held the position of 61st United States Secretary of the Treasury from 1971 to 1972. Played a significant role in the economic policies of the Nixon administration, including the introduction of wage and price controls. Associated with the Democratic and later the Republican party during his political career.
Continue ReadingDavid Sarnoff
Businessman, founder of RCA
Born
February 27th, 1891 135 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1891, a significant figure in the development of radio and television broadcasting. Founded the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) and served as its president. Oversaw the introduction of television in mainstream culture, leading the company to become a key player in the electronics industry. Played a critical role in the establishment of the NBC television network. Worked on expanding radio communication and promoting the use of radio technology in various fields.
Continue ReadingJoan Bennett
American actress in classic cinema
Born
February 27th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1990 35 years ago — 80 years old
Debuted in film in the silent era and transitioned smoothly into talkies. Played significant roles in films such as 'Little Women' and 'Scarlet Street'. Achieved acclaim for performances in film noir during the 1940s. Also had a successful television career, notably starring in the soap opera 'Dark Shadows' in the late 1960s.
Continue ReadingRoman Giertych
Polish lawyer and politician
Born
February 27th, 1971 55 years ago
A Polish lawyer and politician served as Deputy Prime Minister of Poland. Engagement in legislative activities occurred during crucial periods in Polish politics. As a prominent legal figure, played significant roles in various political initiatives and legal reforms. Involvement in the leadership of political parties contributed to shaping policy directions. Participation in public debates and legal education highlighted commitment to legal advocacy.
Continue ReadingMeena Keshwar Kamal
Afghan activist and women's rights leader
Born
February 27th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
1987 39 years ago — 31 years old
An Afghan activist founded the Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan (RAWA) in 1977, advocating for women's rights amid political turmoil. The organization focused on education, social justice, and women's empowerment, especially during the Soviet invasion and the rise of the Taliban. The activist faced significant danger and opposition due to her activism, resulting in her assassination in 1987. Despite this, the organization continues to operate, promoting the causes she championed.
Continue ReadingDexter Gordon
Saxophonist and composer in jazz
Born
February 27th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1990 35 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent jazz saxophonist and composer, played a major role in the development of the hard bop style. Gained recognition in the 1940s and became a significant figure in the bebop movement. Worked with famous musicians such as Lionel Hampton and Bud Powell. Later transitioned into acting, earning acclaim for the role in the film 'Round Midnight'. His performances consistently displayed a unique style that influenced generations of musicians in jazz.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 22nd
Simcha Rotem
last survivor of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — 94 years old
Participated in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising during World War II. Fought against Nazi occupation and survived the brutal conflict. After the war, dedicated life to commemorating the events of the Holocaust and educating future generations about the atrocities. Engaged in various activities to preserve the memory of those who perished and the struggles of the Jewish people during this period.
Continue ReadingGodfried Bomans
Dutch television host and author
Born
March 2nd, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1971 54 years ago — 58 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a prominent figure in Dutch literature and television, focused on children's literature and television programming. Achievements include hosting various cultural programs and engaging audiences with entertaining educational content. Additionally, authored several books that contributed to Dutch literature, notably in the genre of fantasy and stories for young readers. The popularity extended to radio, where engaging storytelling was a hallmark. Emphasis on the importance of literature in education characterized much of the work.
Continue ReadingPercivall Pott
English surgeon and pioneering anatomist
Born
January 6th, 1714 312 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1788 237 years ago — 74 years old
An English surgeon, significant contributions were made in the field of surgery and anatomy. Developed Pott's fracture nomenclature, which became a standard in medical terminology. Proposed theories regarding the connection between occupational hazards and health issues, particularly with chimney sweeps and scrotal cancer. Authored influential medical texts, including 'Chirurgical Observations,' which provided insights into surgical practices of the time. The establishment of surgical principles and techniques laid foundational aspects for future surgical practices.
Continue ReadingDesmond Hoyte
Guyanese politician and President
Born
March 9th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the President of Guyana from 1985 to 1992 after holding various ministerial positions. Initially a member of the People's National Congress, took office following the death of the previous president. Implemented economic reforms and attempted to transition the country towards a free-market economy. Focused on improving international relations and fostering diplomatic ties with other nations. Played a significant role in the non-aligned movement and represented Guyana in several international forums.
Continue ReadingBaha' al-Dawla
Buyid amir of Iraq
Died
December 22nd, 1012 1013 years ago — None years old
Baha' al-Dawla ruled as an amir of the Buyid dynasty in Iraq during the late 10th and early 11th centuries. He was influential in the administration and cultural development of Baghdad, supporting various scholars and artists. Under his rule, the Buyid dynasty maintained a significant degree of autonomy and power despite the overarching influence of the Abbasid Caliphate. His reign is often characterized by the promotion of Persian culture and efforts to stabilize the region amid political turmoil. Baha' al-Dawla's policies contributed to the flourishing of the arts and sciences in his territory.
Continue ReadingJohn Newbery
English publisher and children's author
Born
1713 313 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1767 258 years ago — 54 years old
Established the first children's book publishing house. Published 'A Little Pretty Pocket-Book' in 1744, considered one of the first texts aimed specifically at children. Advocated for children's literature at a time when such works were scarce. His efforts laid the groundwork for future developments in the genre.
Continue Reading