Sarojini Naidu
Indian poet and political activist
Born in 1879, an influential figure in Indian literature and the independence movement. Known as the 'Nightingale of India' for her poetic contributions, her works often addressed themes of love and patriotism. Active in the struggle for India's freedom from British rule, she played a significant role in the Indian National Congress and worked alongside leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. She became the first woman to serve as a governor in independent India, taking office as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh in 1947. As a prominent figure in both literature and politics, she bridged the gap between cultural expression and nationalist aspiration.
Authored significant poetry collections such as 'In the Bazaars of Hyderabad' and 'The Gift of India'
First woman governor of Uttar Pradesh
Key figure in India's independence movement
Other People Born on February 13th
Chuck Yeager
US Air Force General and test pilot
Born
February 13th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 97 years old
A pioneering test pilot and U.S. Air Force general, achieved a significant milestone in aviation history by breaking the sound barrier in 1947. Yeager's flight aboard the Bell X-1, named Glamorous Glennis, marked the first time a human surpassed the speed of sound. Following this groundbreaking achievement, Yeager continued to contribute to the field of aviation through numerous test flights and military service during World War II and the Vietnam War. Later, he served as a key figure in aerospace research, sharing expertise with various aircraft programs.
Continue ReadingAqib Talib
American football cornerback and Super Bowl champion
Born
February 13th, 1986 39 years ago
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) for teams including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots, and Denver Broncos. Contributed to the Broncos' victory in Super Bowl 50. Recognized for his defensive skills and ability to intercept passes, achieving multiple Pro Bowl selections throughout the career. Retired after a successful tenure that left a significant mark on the field.
Continue ReadingStephen Bowen
Astronaut and space mission specialist
Born
February 13th, 1964 61 years ago
An engineer and NASA astronaut, contributions included participation in three space shuttle missions. Achievements in spacewalks and robotic operations advanced scientific research and satellite repairs. Completed missions on Endeavour and Atlantis, notably contributing to the International Space Station.
Continue ReadingHarold Mahony
Scottish-Irish tennis player, Wimbledon winner
Born
February 13th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1905 120 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1867, a tennis player competed in the late 19th century. Achieved significant recognition by winning the men's doubles title at Wimbledon in 1896 alongside partner Joshua Pim. The victory marked a key achievement in his career. Participated in various tennis competitions during a time when the sport was rapidly gaining popularity. Contributed to the development of tennis in Scotland and Ireland through participation in national events and tournaments.
Continue ReadingFay Ajzenberg-Selove
Nuclear Physicist with key research
Born
February 13th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
An American nuclear physicist contributed significantly to the field of nuclear physics, particularly in the study of nuclear reactions. Secured a faculty position at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, specializing in experimental nuclear physics. Published several influential papers that advanced understanding of nuclear structures and reactions. A strong advocate for women in science, promoting their participation in the field throughout her career.
Continue ReadingWilliam Shockley
Physicist and Nobel laureate in physics
Born
February 13th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1989 36 years ago — 79 years old
An English-American physicist and academic, contributions included the invention of the transistor, which significantly advanced electronic technology. Affiliated with Stanford University, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1956 along with John Bardeen and Walter Brattain for their roles in the development of the transistor. Later focused on controversial research related to genetics and intelligence.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 2nd
Thomas S. Kleppe
American politician and Secretary of the Interior
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old
A soldier and politician, served as the 41st United States Secretary of the Interior from 1975 to 1977 under President Gerald Ford. Managed various domestic policies including land management and resources. Held other political roles, including serving in the United States House of Representatives and as a member of the North Dakota State Senate. Engaged in efforts related to natural resource policy and environmental regulations during a time of significant change in national land management.
Continue ReadingNicholas I
Russian Emperor during the Crimean War
Born
1796 229 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1855 170 years ago — 59 years old
Ruled as Emperor of Russia from 1825 until death in 1855. Initiated a period of autocracy and conservative policies, reinforcing censorship and repression of dissent. Oversaw military campaigns, including the unsuccessful engagement in the Crimean War against an alliance of Britain, France, and the Ottoman Empire. His reign was marked by significant tensions with neighboring countries and internal unrest, which ultimately contributed to the decline of imperial power.
Continue ReadingChad of Mercia
Bishop and saint of the church
Born
620 1405 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 672 1353 years ago — 52 years old
Served as bishop in the Kingdom of Mercia and established a monastery at Lichfield. Played a key role in spreading Christianity in England during the 7th century. Acted as an intermediary in ecclesiastical disputes between different regions. Was later canonized as a saint, reflecting the posthumous reverence for his contributions to the church.
Continue ReadingJeff Healey
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
March 25th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2008 17 years ago — 41 years old
A Canadian musician gained recognition for his unique style of playing the guitar while sitting down. Released influential albums such as 'See the Light' in 1988, featuring the hit single 'Angel Eyes.' Blended blues, rock, and jazz elements into a distinctive sound. Besides his music career, made memorable appearances in films, including 'Road House' alongside Patrick Swayze. Despite battling eye cancer from a young age, continued to perform and record until passing in 2008.
Continue ReadingChamp Clark
American politician, Speaker of the House
Born
March 7th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1921 104 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 41st Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1911 to 1919. Represented Missouri's 5th congressional district and held the role during critical periods of the Progressive Era, influencing significant legislation. Played a key role in advocating for progressive reforms and was instrumental in the passage of measures supporting economic recovery and social welfare. His tenure matched the challenges of World War I and the domestic reforms of the time.
Continue ReadingHank Ballard
American singer-songwriter, 'The Twist'
Born
November 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2003 22 years ago — 75 years old
An American singer-songwriter, significant contributions came to the rhythm and blues genre in the 1950s and 1960s. Ballard's music was characterized by its engaging melodies and danceable rhythms. The hit song 'The Twist' became a cultural phenomenon, popularizing the dance craze of the same name and influencing the music scene of that era. Ballard's work laid the foundation for future artists and the evolution of various musical styles, particularly in the rock and roll genre.
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