Susan Helms
American astronaut and engineer
A general in the United States Air Force, an engineer, and an astronaut with NASA. Participated in six spaceflights during a career that spanned over two decades. Served as the commander of the International Space Station. Contributed to various space missions including the deployment of satellites and conducting research in microgravity. Played a significant role in improving technologies related to space exploration and habitation.
Served as a commander on the International Space Station
Participated in six spaceflights
Other People Born on February 26th
James Mitchell
American wrestling manager and performer
Born
February 26th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent figure in professional wrestling, this individual gained recognition as a manager and performer in various wrestling promotions. Made notable contributions in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA). Established a reputation for exceptional character work and storylines, often portraying villainous roles. Collaborated with numerous wrestlers, enhancing their personas and rivalries in the ring.
Continue ReadingWayne Goss
Australian politician, 34th Premier of Queensland
Born
February 26th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the 34th Premier of Queensland from 1989 to 1996. Led the Labor Party to victory in the 1989 state election, ending 32 years of Liberal and National Party rule. Focused on education reform and the establishment of the Queensland Art Gallery. Retired from politics after losing the 1995 election, later becoming involved in various business ventures and public service roles.
Continue ReadingMichel Houellebecq
French author and poet of 'Submission'
Born
February 26th, 1956 69 years ago
This individual is an author, poet, screenwriter, and director. Born in 1956, the literary career began with the publication of the novel 'Extension du domaine de la lutte' in 1994. Subsequent works include 'Platform' and 'Submission', the latter provoking significant discussion following its release in 2015. The writing is marked by its examination of contemporary society and human relationships, often reflecting themes of alienation and societal critique. Film adaptations of works also contributed to the broader cultural dialogue.
Continue ReadingAndrei Zhdanov
Soviet politician and cultural figure
Born
February 26th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1948 77 years ago — 52 years old
Served as a prominent Soviet politician and civil servant. Played a significant role in the cultural policies of the Soviet Union during the post-World War II period. Oversaw the implementation of Zhdanovism, a doctrine that emphasized socialist realism in literature and arts. Held the post of Leningrad Party Secretary and contributed to the rebuilding of the city after the war. Influenced various cultural institutions and was instrumental in promoting the Communist Party's agenda through literature and the arts.
Continue ReadingAhmed Zewail
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 26th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 70 years old
An Egyptian-American chemist, contributed significantly to the field of femtochemistry, which studies chemical reactions on extremely short timescales. Zewail's work allowed scientists to observe the motion of atoms in a molecule during a chemical reaction. He received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1999 for these pioneering studies. Zewail held a professorship at the California Institute of Technology and actively engaged in initiatives to promote education and science in developing countries.
Continue ReadingEmma Kirkby
English soprano specializing in early music
Born
February 26th, 1949 76 years ago
Specialized in early music, particularly Baroque and Renaissance styles. Established a notable career in the performance of historically informed practices. Achieved prominence through recordings with renowned ensembles and musicians. Collaborated extensively with groups such as The Academy of Ancient Music and The Tallis Scholars. Recognized for a clear and agile vocal style.
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