Pedro Morales
Professional wrestler and commentator
A Puerto Rican professional wrestler and commentator became the first Latin American to win the WWE Championship, achieving this in 1971. Morales began wrestling in the 1950s and gained prominence in various wrestling promotions. Alongside championship victories, he held the Intercontinental Championship. After retiring from the ring, transitioned to commentary, contributing to the wrestling community. Morales was also a wrestling promoter in Puerto Rico.
Won the WWE Championship in 1971
Held the Intercontinental Championship
First Latin American WWE Champion
Other People Born on October 22nd
Karl Guthe Jansky
Physicist and engineer in radio astronomy
Born
October 22nd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1950 75 years ago — 45 years old
Contributions to the field of radio astronomy primarily led to the discovery of cosmic radio waves. Work involved the development of the first radio telescope, which detected radio emissions from the Milky Way. Research helped lay the foundation for modern astrophysics and contributed to the understanding of astronomical phenomena. Involved in experiments that sought to identify sources of radio frequency interference.
Continue ReadingJohannes Høsflot Klæbo
Norwegian cross-country skier, Olympic gold medalist
Born
October 22nd, 1996 29 years ago
Competed in cross-country skiing with significant success. Achieved multiple gold medals at the Winter Olympics, including victories in the sprint and team events. Excelled in the FIS Cross-Country World Cup, claiming several overall titles and numerous individual race victories. Demonstrated exceptional sprinting abilities and endurance throughout competitive career, establishing a strong presence in the sport.
Continue ReadingHenry Lauterbach
German high jumper and Olympian
Born
October 22nd, 1957 68 years ago
An accomplished high jumper, participation occurred in the 1980 Summer Olympics held in Moscow. Achieved success in various international competitions, including European Athletics Championships. Competed at the national level for West Germany, earning recognition in both field and track events.
Continue ReadingBrian Boitano
Figure skater and Olympic gold medalist
Born
October 22nd, 1963 62 years ago
A prominent figure skater, achieved fame in the late 1980s. Won the gold medal at the 1988 Winter Olympics held in Calgary. Competed in various competitions, securing numerous titles and accolades, including the 1986 World Figure Skating Championships. Transitioned to television, hosting various ice skating specials and performances, showcasing skills and creativity on the ice.
Continue ReadingMarc Shaiman
Composer and songwriter for films and musicals
Born
October 22nd, 1959 66 years ago
Active as a composer and songwriter, focused on film and theater work, contributed to several acclaimed productions. Collaborated with Scott Wittman on the musical 'Hairspray,' which won multiple Tony Awards. The work received recognition for its vibrant score and rich storytelling. Additionally, composed for films such as 'Sleepless in Seattle' and 'Big.' Acknowledged with multiple Academy Award nominations and Emmy Awards for contributions to television and film.
Continue ReadingClinton Davisson
American physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 22nd, 1881 144 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1958 67 years ago — 76 years old
An American physicist contributed to the field of quantum mechanics and wave-particle duality. His work led to the experimental confirmation of de Broglie's hypothesis regarding the wave nature of electrons. Davisson shared the 1937 Nobel Prize in Physics with George Paget Thomson for their discovery of electron diffraction. This groundbreaking research advanced the understanding of the behavior of particles at the quantum level, influencing further developments in quantum physics and material science. Beyond his Nobel work, Davisson held academic positions, impacting the education and training of future physicists.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 12th
Friedrich Schleiermacher
German philosopher and theologian
Born
November 21st, 1768 257 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1834 191 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in the development of modern theology and philosophy, this individual contributed significantly to the fields of hermeneutics and religious thought. His work, particularly "On Religion: Speeches to Its Cultured Despisers," argued for the relevance of religious experience against rationalism. The philosopher introduced ideas that sought to bridge faith and reason, emphasizing the importance of individual experience in understanding faith. His influence extended into the realm of modern existentialism and phenomenology.
Continue ReadingNik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat
Malaysian cleric and politician
Born
January 10th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 12th Menteri Besar of Kelantan from 1990 to 2013. Associated with the Islamic Party of Malaysia (PAS). Advocated for Islamic governance and education reform during tenure. Wrote extensively on Islamic and social issues, influencing the party's ideology and direction.
Continue ReadingJodocus Hondius
Flemish cartographer and globe maker
Born
October 14th, 1563 462 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1612 413 years ago — 48 years old
Born in the late 16th century, a Flemish cartographer contributed significantly to mapmaking. Established a printing office in Amsterdam, specializing in geometrical maps. Produced several world maps and atlases, most notably the 'Atlas Minor,' which enjoyed widespread distribution. Employed innovative engraving techniques, leading to detailed and accurate representations of geography. His work facilitated navigation and knowledge of the world during the European Age of Exploration, influencing cartography for future generations.
Continue ReadingDonald Judd
American minimalist artist and sculptor
Born
June 3rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 65 years old
An influential figure in the minimalist art movement, created geometric sculptures and installations that emphasized the purity of form and material. Contributed significantly to the development of modern art through the use of industrial materials and fabrication techniques. Established the Chinati Foundation in Marfa, Texas, which showcases large-scale works and installations by various artists. Engaged in architecture and design alongside visual art, showcasing a holistic approach to space and environment.
Continue ReadingAmbroise Thomas
French composer of operas and music
Born
August 5th, 1811 214 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1896 129 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent composer and academic, this individual contributed significantly to French opera during the 19th century. His most acclaimed work, the opera 'Mireille', premiered in 1864 and remains a staple of the operatic repertoire. He also composed 'Hamlet', which debuted in 1868 and showcased his ability to adapt literary classics into engaging musical experiences. In addition to composition, this figure held various academic roles, influencing a generation of musicians through teaching and mentorship.
Continue ReadingNodar Kumaritashvili
Georgian luger and Olympic athlete
Born
November 25th, 1988 37 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 21 years old
A Georgian luger competed in the 2010 Winter Olympics held in Vancouver. Training primarily in the sport of luge, participation in international competitions included the Luge World Championships. Tragically, an accident occurred during a practice run leading to death just days before Olympic events began.
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