Randy de Puniet
Motorcycle racer with GP accomplishments
Began racing at a young age in France, competing in various local championships before moving to international contests. Entered the Grand Prix motorcycle racing circuit, participating primarily in the 250cc and MotoGP classes. Achieved several top-10 finishes during the MotoGP World Championship. Raced for teams including KR211 and LCR Honda. Notable for consistency and technical skill on the track. Retired from professional racing in 2014.
Competed in 250cc and MotoGP World Championships
Achieved multiple top-10 finishes
Raced for KR211 and LCR Honda teams
Other People Born on February 14th
Christopher Latham Sholes
American politician and typewriter inventor
Born
February 14th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1890 135 years ago — 71 years old
An influential figure in American publishing, contributed to the development of the typewriter. Served as a politician in the Wisconsin State Legislature. Developed a practical version of the modern typewriter, which led to widespread use in offices and homes. The QWERTY keyboard layout, designed to reduce jamming in early typewriters, was established through this innovation. Efforts in publishing included founding the first newspaper in Wisconsin.
Continue ReadingGeorge Washington Gale Ferris Jr.
Engineer, inventor of the Ferris wheel
Born
February 14th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1896 129 years ago — 37 years old
An American engineer developed the Ferris wheel, a landmark amusement ride that debuted at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The structure aimed to surpass the Eiffel Tower as a symbol of innovation and engineering prowess. The Ferris wheel featured 36 cars, each capable of holding up to 60 passengers, providing an unprecedented view of the exposition and the surrounding city. This invention represented a significant achievement in civil engineering and design, leading to a new genre of large-scale attractions at fairs and amusement parks.
Continue ReadingRadola Gajda
Czech commander and politician
Born
February 14th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1948 77 years ago — 56 years old
Served as an officer in the Austro-Hungarian army during World War I. Became a prominent member of the Czechoslovak National Council and later held significant political positions in Czechoslovakia. Gajda was involved in various military and political efforts during the interwar period, advocating for a strong national defense. In 1938, he played a key role in the establishment of the Czechoslovak Legion in France and was later elected as a member of parliament. His career extended into the tumultuous years of World War II, where he contributed to the Czechoslovak resistance movement against Nazi occupation. After the war, he became associated with various political movements.
Continue ReadingStelios Haji-Ioannou
Businessman, founder of easyJet
Born
February 14th, 1967 58 years ago
A Greek-English businessman founded easyJet in 1995, revolutionizing the airline industry with low-cost travel options across Europe. The company became one of the largest low-cost carriers in the world. Haji-Ioannou has also launched various other ventures in the travel and retail sectors. His approach to entrepreneurship emphasizes accessibility in air travel and innovation in business models.
Continue ReadingSteve McNair
American football quarterback, MVP awardee
Born
February 14th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2009 16 years ago — 36 years old
Played college football at Alcorn State University, leading the team to an 11-0 record and finishing third in Heisman Trophy voting in 1994. Drafted third overall by the Houston Oilers in 1995. Became the starting quarterback in 1997 and later played for the Tennessee Titans, leading the team to Super Bowl XXXIV. Achieved multiple Pro Bowl selections and was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 2003. Finished career with the Baltimore Ravens before retirement in 2008.
Continue ReadingByron Mullens
Basketball player, Charlotte Bobcats center
Born
February 14th, 1989 36 years ago
A basketball player participated in the NBA from 2011 to 2014. Played as a center and spent time with the Charlotte Bobcats, where significant contributions to the team's roster occurred. Competed in college basketball at the University of Ohio before declaring for the NBA draft. Selected in the second round of the 2011 draft, had stints with several teams and showcased skills as a scorer and rebounder.
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