Sara Blakely
Businesswoman, founder of Spanx
Founded Spanx, a hosiery and apparel company that revolutionized shapewear for women. Started the company with just $5,000 in savings and grew it into a billion-dollar enterprise. Achieved recognition as the first self-made female billionaire by Forbes. Spanx was praised for its innovative designs and positive messaging regarding body image.
Founded Spanx, a successful shapewear brand
Listed as the first self-made female billionaire by Forbes
Other People Born on February 27th
Azeem Rafiq
Cricketer and whistleblower in sports
Born
February 27th, 1991 35 years ago
Azeem Rafiq is a former cricketer who played for Yorkshire County Cricket Club. His career spanned several years during which he primarily played as a spinner. Rafiq gained significant attention after raising allegations of racism and discrimination within his club, which initiated a wider discussion about racism in cricket. The case prompted investigations and brought changes in policies regarding inclusivity in the sport.
Continue ReadingCharles Best
Physiologist who co-discovered insulin
Born
February 27th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1978 48 years ago — 79 years old
A physiologist and biochemist contributed significantly to the discovery of insulin. Collaborated with Frederick Banting during experiments that led to the purification and isolation of insulin from the pancreas of dogs. This groundbreaking work had profound implications for diabetes treatment. Held a long-standing academic career, teaching and conducting research at the University of Toronto, and published numerous scientific papers on the functions of the pancreas. Later, served as the head of the department of physiology at the university.
Continue ReadingCarel Fabritius
Dutch painter of the 17th century
Born
February 27th, 1622 404 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1654 371 years ago — 32 years old
Born in 1622, a Dutch painter associated with the Delft School, studied under Rembrandt. Developed a distinctive style characterized by the use of light and shadow. Created several renowned works during a brief career, marked by a deep exploration of color and composition. Died in a gunpowder explosion in Delft in 1654, which cut short a promising artistic journey.
Continue ReadingJosh Groban
Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
February 27th, 1981 45 years ago
Gained prominence as a singer-songwriter in the early 2000s, with a powerful tenor voice. First album, self-titled, achieved multi-platinum status and included the hit single 'You're Still You'. Participated in Broadway productions including 'Les Misérables' and has appeared in various television shows, such as 'The Office' and 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend'. Successfully blended pop and classical music styles with a significant international fanbase.
Continue ReadingGenrikh Kasparyan
Armenian chess player and composer
Born
February 27th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1995 30 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent chess player and composer, built a significant reputation within the chess community. Achieved international acclaim for contributions to the theory of chess composition, particularly in endgame studies. Worked tirelessly on theoretical innovations and produced a body of work that includes hundreds of studies and articles. Received numerous awards and accolades for excellence in chess composition, including the International Master title for chess composition. Contributed to various chess publications and served as an educator, fostering interest in chess among new generations.
Continue ReadingMeyers Leonard
Basketball player for Miami Heat
Born
February 27th, 1992 34 years ago
Played as a center in the NBA, primarily with the Portland Trail Blazers and later with the Miami Heat. Drafted in the first round of the 2012 NBA Draft. Achieved significant playing time in the playoffs and contributed to the team's depth with strong performances in critical games. Known for versatility on the court, including shooting skills and defensive capabilities.
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