Raymond McCreesh
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born in 1957, a significant figure in the Irish Republican movement, engaged in political activism in Northern Ireland. Participated in the 1981 hunger strike at Long Kesh Prison, advocating for political status for Republican prisoners. Died after 61 days without food, becoming a symbol of the struggle for Irish nationalism and resistance against British rule.
Participated in the 1981 hunger strike
Advocated for political status for prisoners
Other People Born on February 25th
A. Leon Higginbotham Jr.
Civil Rights Advocate and Judge
Born
February 25th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1998 27 years ago — 70 years old
Birth occurred in 1928. Served as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Contributed significantly to civil rights law, focusing on racial equality and social justice. Authored several influential books on law and history, including 'In the Matter of Color: Race and the American Legal Process'. Played a key role in numerous landmark cases related to civil rights. Participated in various professional organizations that advanced the cause of civil rights. Engaged in academia as a professor of law and held positions at institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania.
Continue ReadingDon Quarrie
Jamaican sprinter and Olympic medalist
Born
February 25th, 1951 74 years ago
A distinguished sprinter and coach, this individual achieved prominence in track and field during the 1970s. Competed primarily in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Won a gold medal in the 1976 Montreal Olympics as part of the 4x100 meters relay team. Secured multiple medals at the Commonwealth Games and Pan American Games throughout the career. Transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of future sprinters.
Continue ReadingJoakim Noah
Basketball player and defensive specialist
Born
February 25th, 1985 40 years ago
A professional basketball player played as a center. Achievements include winning the NBA Championship with the Chicago Bulls in 2006. Played college basketball at the University of Florida, helping the team secure back-to-back NCAA Championships in 2006 and 2007. Recognized for exceptional defensive skills, garnered NBA Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2014. Known for contributions to the team's success during his tenure with the Bulls and impact on defensive strategies in the league. Represented the French national team in international competitions.
Continue ReadingChelsea Handler
Comedian and television host
Born
February 25th, 1975 50 years ago
Acclaimed as a comedian, actress, and author, contributed significantly to television and literature. Gained prominence as the host of the late-night talk show 'Chelsea Lately' on E! from 2007 to 2014. Authored several books, including 'My Horizontal Life' and 'Are You There Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea', both achieving bestseller status. Known for a candid and humorous approach to personal and societal issues.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Fernández Ochoa
Spanish Alpine Ski Racer, Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
February 25th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2006 19 years ago — 56 years old
Born in Spain, an Alpine ski racer achieved significant success in the sport during the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in multiple World Cup events, prominently representing the national team. Captured the gold medal in the men's slalom at the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, becoming the first Spanish athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in winter sports. Earned multiple podium finishes at World Cup races and contributed to the popularity of skiing in Spain, inspiring future generations of athletes.
Continue ReadingJorge Soler
Cuban baseball player, World Series MVP
Born
February 25th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in Cuba, one of the prominent figures in professional baseball. Made a significant contribution as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Achieved recognition during the 2021 World Series while playing for the Atlanta Braves, where performance contributed to the team's championship victory. Prior to this, played for the Chicago Cubs and Kansas City Royals, showcasing powerful hitting skills.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Conrad IV
King of Germany and Sicily
Born
1228 797 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1254 771 years ago — 26 years old
Became King of Germany in 1250 and later King of Sicily in 1254. His reign was marked by conflicts over imperial authority and control over the Kingdom of Sicily. Faced challenges from papal authority and opposition from other noble factions within the German territories. Died at a young age, leaving an unfinished legacy tied to both the Holy Roman Empire and the southern Italian kingdom.
Continue ReadingHugo de Vries
Botanist and geneticist, mutation theory
Born
February 16th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1935 90 years ago — 87 years old
Contributions to genetics included the formulation of the mutation theory, which proposed that new species arise from sudden changes in traits. Conducted hybridization experiments on plants, particularly evening primroses, leading to significant findings in heredity and variation. Published works advanced the understanding of Mendelian inheritance, which laid foundational principles for modern genetics. De Vries also played a role in the revival of interest in Mendel's laws in the early 20th century, influencing future research in the field.
Continue ReadingPandolfo Petrucci
Tyrant of Siena
Born
February 14th, 1452 573 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1512 513 years ago — 60 years old
Governed Siena during the late 15th century. Achieved power through a combination of political maneuvering and military strength. Established a ruling dynasty in Siena that controlled the city for decades, influencing its affairs and politics. Oversaw significant changes in the governance and administration of the city-state. His rule marked the transition of Siena from a free comune to a more centralized authority.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey de Havilland
Pilot and engineer; designed Mosquito
Born
July 27th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1965 60 years ago — 82 years old
An English pilot and engineer played a significant role in the development of military aircraft during World War II. Established the de Havilland Aircraft Company, which produced several notable aircraft designs. The most prominent of these was the de Havilland Mosquito, a twin-engine bomber known for its speed and versatility. Beyond military applications, contributions also extended into civil aviation with the design of the de Havilland Comet, the world's first commercial turbojet airliner. His engineering advancements greatly influenced aircraft performance and technology in aviation.
Continue ReadingJane Addams
Sociologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 6th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1935 90 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1860, a sociologist and author played a crucial role in the social reform movement in the United States. After co-founding Hull House in Chicago, focused on community service and advocacy for immigrant welfare, women's rights, and labor reforms. Delivered lectures and published numerous works, highlighting the importance of social justice and public health. In 1931, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for efforts in promoting peace and cooperation among nations. Engaged in various initiatives aimed at improving living conditions for the urban poor and advocating for social reforms.
Continue ReadingSun Quan
Emperor of Eastern Wu during the Three Kingdoms
Died
May 21st, 252 1773 years ago — None years old
Ruled the Eastern Wu kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period, assumed the title of emperor in 220 AD. Established the foundation for Eastern Wu's power, focusing on both military and diplomatic strategies. Engaged in significant battles against rival states, including the notable victory at the Battle of Chibi. Strengthened trade and agriculture, facilitating economic development within his realm. Oversaw the promotion of Confucianism as a guiding ideology in governance.
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