Telford Taylor
American general and prosecutor of Nazis
Served as a U.S. Army general and played a significant role in the prosecution of Nazi war criminals at the Nuremberg Trials. After the war, Taylor became a prominent legal scholar and historian specializing in topics related to the military. Authored several books, delving into military history and the legal implications of war crimes. Contributed to the development of military law and was a professor at various institutions, imparting knowledge on legal and historical matters.
Prosecuted at the Nuremberg Trials
Authored 'The Anatomy of the Nuremberg Trials'
Served as U.S. Army general during WWII
Other People Born on February 24th
Ivica Račan
Croatian politician and Prime Minister
Born
February 24th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2007 18 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the 7th Prime Minister of Croatia from 2003 to 2005. Played a pivotal role in the post-war reconstruction of Croatia, focusing on economic reforms and European Union integration. Led the Social Democratic Party and was influential in Croatian politics during the 1990s and 2000s. Contributed to efforts in peace negotiations during the Croatian War of Independence and worked towards stabilizing the country following its declaration of independence.
Continue ReadingPhil Knight
Businessman, co-founder of Nike, Inc.
Born
February 24th, 1938 87 years ago
Co-founded Nike, Inc. in 1964, originally as Blue Ribbon Sports. Played a pivotal role in transforming the sneaker industry and popularizing athletic footwear and apparel. Under leadership, Nike became a global leader in the sportswear market. Expanded the brand's influence through innovative marketing strategies and influential endorsements. Knight served as CEO until 2004 and chairman until 2016, overseeing significant growth and international expansion. Engaged in philanthropic activities, focusing on education and community programs.
Continue ReadingArrigo Boito
Italian composer and librettist
Born
February 24th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1918 107 years ago — 76 years old
One of the notable figures in Italian opera, a career included significant contributions as a composer and librettist. Authored the librettos for several major operas, including 'Falstaff' and 'Otello' for Giuseppe Verdi. Also composed operas such as 'Mefistofele', which received acclaim for its lyrical depth and innovative approach. Boito made contributions to the Italian music scene as a journalist and critic, influencing contemporary composers and the direction of Italian opera during his time.
Continue ReadingNick Blackburn
Baseball pitcher with the Minnesota Twins
Born
February 24th, 1982 43 years ago
An American professional baseball pitcher played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Minnesota Twins from 2008 to 2013. Drafted by the Twins in 2001, debuted on September 9, 2008. Helped the Twins earn the American League Central Division title in 2009. Throughout his career, made a total of 95 appearances, including 85 starts, accumulating a win-loss record of 36-48 and an earned run average of 4.80.
Continue ReadingAugust Derleth
American author and anthologist
Born
February 24th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1971 54 years ago — 62 years old
An influential author and anthologist, played a pivotal role in the development of the Cthulhu Mythos, expanding upon the work of H.P. Lovecraft. Founded Arkham House in 1939 to publish and promote the works of Lovecraft and other writers of weird fiction. Authored numerous novels, essays, and short stories across various genres, including science fiction, fantasy, horror, and regionalism, contributing to the rich literary tradition of American literature.
Continue ReadingZara DuPont
American suffragist and advocate
Born
February 24th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1946 79 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1869, significant contributions to the women's suffrage movement occurred. Played a leading role in organizing rallies and petition drives. Collaborated with various women's organizations to advance voting rights. Active in promoting women's issues until the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 23rd
Antipope Benedict XIII
Antipope and Avignon Papacy leader
Born
1328 697 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1423 602 years ago — 95 years old
Served as antipope from 1394 to 1423 during the Western Schism, refusing to accept the legitimacy of the Roman popes. His pontificate was marked by attempts to consolidate power and maintain the influence of the Avignon papacy. Benedict XIII faced challenges from rival factions and was eventually confined to Avignon. He continued to claim authority until death in 1423, leaving a legacy of political and religious division within the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingAugust Jakobson
Estonian author and politician
Born
September 2nd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1963 62 years ago — 58 years old
An author and politician from Estonia, contributed significantly to literature and political life in the 20th century. Played a vital role in the Estonian independence movement and was involved in post-war government efforts. Focused on issues pertaining to Estonian culture and language. Published various works that explored themes of identity and nationalism, leaving a lasting influence on Estonian literature.
Continue ReadingLloyd Bentsen
U.S. Secretary of the Treasury during Clinton
Born
February 11th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 2006 19 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 69th Secretary of the Treasury from 1993 to 1994. Played a significant role in implementing economic policies during the early years of the Clinton Administration. Earlier, served as a U.S. Senator from Texas from 1971 to 1993, where efforts were focused on tax reform and trade legislation. Also held the position of Democratic nominee for Vice President in 1988, alongside Michael Dukakis. Engaged in World War II service in the Army Air Corps as a pilot.
Continue ReadingFranz Ernst Neumann
Mineralogist and physicist, Neumann's Law
Born
September 11th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1895 130 years ago — 96 years old
A German mineralogist and physicist, contributed significantly to the field of mineralogy and theoretical physics. Developed Neumann's Law, which describes the symmetry of crystal growth. Made advancements in the study of geometric and physical properties of crystals. Worked as a professor at the University of Berlin, where engaged in scientific discourse and education. Published numerous papers and textbooks that influenced future studies in mineralogy and physics.
Continue ReadingGéraud Duroc
French general and diplomat
Born
October 25th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1813 212 years ago — 40 years old
Served as a general in the French Revolutionary Wars and as a diplomat during the Napoleonic Wars. Held the title of Duke of Friuli and played a crucial role in the establishment of diplomatic relations between France and various European states. Participated in major campaigns, including the Austerlitz campaign and the Peninsular War. Took part in various treaties to negotiate peace and alliances. Duroc was a close confidant of Napoleon Bonaparte and served as his Grand Marshal of the Palace.
Continue ReadingGene Green
American politician and attorney
Born
October 17th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1981 44 years ago — 33 years old
Born in 1947, a career in law led to a political career in the House of Representatives representing Texas's 29th congressional district. Focused on education, health care, and environmental issues during tenure. Served from 1993 until retirement in 2021, contributing to numerous legislative measures.
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