Thomas-Alexandre Dumas

Haitian-French general during Revolution

Thomas-Alexandre Dumas - Military & Warriors born 1762
Born

1762
263 years ago

Died
Category

Military & Warriors

Country

France

Links & References

Born in 1762, Dumas served as a general in Revolutionary France. He was the first man of African descent to become a general in the French Army. Dumas played a significant role in various military campaigns throughout the French Revolutionary Wars. His leadership was instrumental in several key battles against external enemies and internal factions. Despite facing racial discrimination, Dumas earned a reputation for his military prowess and strategic acumen. He faced challenges during the rise of Napoleon and struggled against the prevailing attitudes towards race in the military.

First general of African descent in France

Major contributions to Revolutionary campaigns

Other People Who Died on February 26th

Richard Jordan Gatling

American engineer, inventor of the Gatling gun
Born
September 12th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1903 122 years ago — 84 years old

An American engineer developed the Gatling gun, one of the earliest successful machine guns. The Gatling gun was patented in 1862 and saw extensive use during the American Civil War. Its design utilized a rotating barrel and a hand-crank mechanism, allowing rapid fire compared to traditional firearms. Gatling's invention significantly influenced military technology and warfare strategies. Later, the design was modified and improved for increased efficiency and reliability in subsequent conflicts. Gatling's contributions to engineering extended beyond firearms as he patented over a dozen inventions during his career.

Continue Reading

John Still

Bishop and author of 'Gammer Gurton's Ned'
Born
1543 482 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1608 417 years ago — 65 years old

An English bishop contributed to literature and education during the late 16th century. Served as the Bishop of Bath and Wells. Authored the play 'Gammer Gurton's Ned,' recognized as one of the earliest English comedies. Still also played a significant role in the educational reform of the time, promoting the importance of learning and scholarship among the clergy and laity.

Continue Reading

Eric XIV of Sweden

King of Sweden, claimed throne in 1560
Born
December 13th, 1533 492 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1577 448 years ago — 43 years old

Became King of Sweden in 1560, ruling until 1577. His reign was marked by various military conflicts and attempts to solidify power in the Baltic region. Eric XIV engaged in wars against Denmark and Russia, aimed at expanding the kingdom's influence. His marriage to Karin Månsdotter, a commoner, caused friction with the nobility and led to political instability. In 1570, he faced a coup that resulted in his imprisonment and eventual forced abdication. Died in captivity in 1577.

Continue Reading

Andy Bathgate

Ice hockey player, coach, and manager
Born
August 28th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2016 9 years ago — 83 years old

Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 17 seasons, primarily with the New York Rangers. Secured the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's Most Valuable Player in 1959. Contributed to the game's evolution with offensive skills and playmaking ability. Served as a coach and manager after retirement from playing, influencing the development of future players.

Continue Reading

Wendy Richard

English actress known for EastEnders
Born
July 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 65 years old

An English actress achieved fame for portraying Pauline Fowler in the BBC soap opera EastEnders from 1985 to 2006. Initially trained at the Arts Educational Schools, participated in various stage productions before transitioning to television. Appeared in the sitcom Are You Being Served? as Miss Brahms, showcasing comedic talent. Throughout the career, involved in numerous other television projects, cementing a legacy as an enduring figure in British popular culture.

Continue Reading

Mary Whiton Calkins

Philosopher and psychologist, first female president of the APA
Born
1863 162 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1930 95 years ago — 67 years old

Contributions to psychology included work on self-psychology and memory. Established a laboratory at Wellesley College, becoming the first woman president of the American Psychological Association in 1905. Calkins developed paired-association technique to explore memory processes. Published numerous papers and books on the relationship between psychology and philosophy.

Continue Reading