Stephen Spender
English author and poet with literary acclaim
An English author and poet, contributions spanned poetry, essays, and criticism. Worked in the mid-20th century and was associated with the Movement, a group of poets. The body of work includes exploration of themes such as social injustice and personal experience. Noteworthy publications include 'The Making of a Poem' and 'The Temple', which reflect deep engagement with the world and language. Spender also served in various editorial roles and was involved with organizations promoting poetry and literature.
Published 'The Making of a Poem'
Contributed essays to major literary journals
Advocated for social justice in poetry
Other People Born on February 28th
Cindy Wilson
American singer-songwriter with The B-52s
Born
February 28th, 1957 69 years ago
Cindy Wilson emerged as a pivotal figure in the American new wave music scene. As a founding member of the band The B-52s, she contributed to the group’s distinctive sound that blended elements of rock, pop, and punk. The band's self-titled debut album released in 1979 featured the hit single "Rock Lobster," which helped bring the band to prominence. Wilson's distinctive vocal style and energetic performances played a significant role in defining the band's identity. In addition to her work with The B-52s, Wilson pursued solo projects that showcased her songwriting skills and versatility as an artist. Her contributions to the music industry extended beyond performing, influencing a generation of musicians.
Continue ReadingSteven Chu
Physicist and U.S. Secretary of Energy
Born
February 28th, 1948 78 years ago
American physicist served as the 12th United States Secretary of Energy from 2009 to 2013. Won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1997 for contributions to the cooling and trapping of atoms with laser light. Earned a reputation in the fields of physics and energy policy. Advocated for clean energy initiatives and climate change mitigation during tenure as Secretary.
Continue ReadingSalvador Flamenco
Salvadoran Footballer, World Cup Player
Born
February 28th, 1947 79 years ago
A prominent figure in Salvadoran football, played as a defender and represented El Salvador in international competitions, including the 1970 FIFA World Cup held in Mexico. His club career included stints with various teams in El Salvador, where he gained recognition for his defensive skills and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingAdrian Dantley
Basketball player and coach, Hall of Famer
Born
February 28th, 1955 71 years ago
A professional basketball player and coach, this athlete played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1976 to 1991. A forward, he spent notable years with the Utah Jazz and the Detroit Pistons. During the career, achieved two NBA scoring titles and was selected six times for the All-Star Game. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of players at various levels.
Continue ReadingEdward Greenspan
Canadian lawyer and legal author
Born
February 28th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
Practiced law in Canada and gained recognition for legal expertise. Contributed to the field through numerous publications, including books discussing criminal law. Engaged in high-profile cases, providing representation for notable clients. Served as a legal analyst for media, providing insights on significant legal issues. Held a reputation for strong defense strategies and knowledge of Canadian law.
Continue ReadingMark Pavelich
Ice hockey player; 1980 Miracle on Ice
Born
February 28th, 1958 68 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 63 years old
An ice hockey player gained prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s, playing as a forward. Played for the University of Minnesota Duluth before entering the NHL. Contributed significantly to the United States national team during the 1980 Winter Olympics, where the team achieved a historic victory over the Soviet Union, commonly referred to as the 'Miracle on Ice.' After the Olympics, played in the NHL primarily for the New York Rangers, followed by stints with the Minnesota North Stars and the San Jose Sharks. Retired from professional hockey in the early 1990s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 16th
Tony Taylor
Cuban baseball player and coach
Born
December 19th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2020 5 years ago — 84 years old
Played second base in Major League Baseball for teams including the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs. Had a career spanning 1958 to 1971. Served as a coach for various teams after retirement from playing. Contributed to the development of young players and the promotion of baseball in Cuba.
Continue ReadingMarv Rotblatt
Baseball player for Chicago Cubs
Born
October 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Played Major League Baseball primarily as a second baseman. Rotblatt debuted in 1953 with the Chicago Cubs and played in parts of three seasons. He had a career batting average of .206 with 10 home runs and 34 runs batted in. After his playing career, he worked as a scout for the Chicago Cubs and was involved in coaching youth baseball.
Continue ReadingMary Todd Lincoln
16th First Lady of the United States
Born
December 13th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1882 143 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1818, this individual became the First Lady during her husband's presidency. She played a significant role in the social and political life of the White House, balancing the responsibilities of her role with personal challenges. Throughout her time in the public eye, she dealt with immense loss and mental health struggles while maintaining a commitment to her husband's legacy. Following her husband's assassination, she faced further difficulties and ultimately lived a life of relative seclusion until her death in 1882.
Continue ReadingGeorge Howard
Field Marshal and politician, Governor
Born
June 17th, 1718 308 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1796 229 years ago — 78 years old
Field Marshal and politician served in the British Army. Held the position of Governor of Minorca, contributing to military and colonial governance in the 18th century. Actively participated in various campaigns during the War of the Austrian Succession. Engaged in administrative duties that affected the operational efficiency of the British forces in the Mediterranean region. Instrumental in fostering relations between military and civilian governance in his role as governor.
Continue ReadingLindsay Thompson
Australian politician, 40th Premier of Victoria
Born
October 15th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2008 17 years ago — 84 years old
Served as Premier of Victoria from 1981 to 1982. Engaged in various leadership roles within the Liberal Party and contributed significantly to Victorian politics. Held ministerial positions and was involved in legislative processes that shaped the state's governance and policy frameworks.
Continue ReadingHerms Niel
German composer and military trombonist
Born
April 17th, 1888 138 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1954 71 years ago — 66 years old
Born in Germany, a soldier held the rank of Lieutenant. Also pursued a career in music as a trombonist and composer, contributing significantly to military band music. Composed numerous marches and pieces that became staples in German military repertoire. His compositions were celebrated for their catchy melodies and rhythmic precision, allowing them to endure over decades.
Continue Reading