Thomas Burke
American sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An accomplished sprinter, played a significant role in the early era of American track and field. Won two gold medals in the 1896 Olympics held in Athens, Greece, competing in the 100 meters and 400 meters events. Additionally served as a coach and contributed to journalism, sharing insights on the sport and athletic community. Had an active presence in promoting athletics during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Influenced the development of sprinting techniques and coaching methodologies.
Won gold in 100 meters at the 1896 Olympics
Won gold in 400 meters at the 1896 Olympics
Other People Born on January 15th
Ruth Slenczynska
Pianist and composer; concert performances
Born
January 15th, 1925 101 years ago
Born in 1925, a distinguished American pianist and composer, active since childhood. Gave her first concert performance at the age of four. Studied under noted teachers, including Alfred Cortot and Nadia Boulanger. Performed extensively throughout Europe and the United States, gaining recognition for interpretative skills and technical proficiency. Released numerous recordings showcasing classical works and original compositions. Contributed to the music world through teaching and master classes.
Continue ReadingPavle Kozjek
Slovenian mountaineer and photographer
Born
January 15th, 1959 67 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 49 years old
Accomplished in mountaineering, engaged in numerous expeditions across challenging terrains. Contributed to the field of outdoor photography, capturing images of mountains and climbers. Participated in significant climbs in the Himalayas and the Alps, documenting the culture and environment around these areas. Worked on various photography projects that emphasized the beauty and challenges of climbing.
Continue ReadingRuby Laffoon
American politician, 43rd Governor of Kentucky
Born
January 15th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 72 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the 43rd Governor of Kentucky from 1931 to 1935. During the tenure, focused on economic development and infrastructure improvements in the state. His administration faced the challenges of the Great Depression, implementing policies aimed at relief and recovery for Kentucky's citizens.
Continue ReadingArchibald Peake
Politician and 25th Premier of South Australia
Born
January 15th, 1859 167 years ago
Died
1920 106 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the 25th Premier of South Australia from 1933 to 1938. Played a significant role in the development of policies related to social welfare and economic recovery during the Great Depression. As a member of the Liberal and Country League, advocated for agricultural interests and infrastructure improvements.
Continue ReadingAshraf Aman
Engineer and pioneering mountaineer
Born
January 15th, 1938 88 years ago
Born in Pakistan, a prominent engineer and mountaineer achieved significant recognition in the climbing community. Made history as part of the first successful Pakistani ascent of K2 in 1987. Contributed to the development of engineering projects in Pakistan while simultaneously pursuing mountaineering endeavors. Climbed numerous peaks in the Karakoram range and was instrumental in promoting mountain sports in the country.
Continue ReadingErnie DiGregorio
Basketball player and NBA Rookie of the Year
Born
January 15th, 1951 75 years ago
Played college basketball at Providence College, where earned NCAA All-American honors in 1973. Drafted by the Buffalo Braves in 1973, had an outstanding rookie season, winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award. During the professional career, played for the Braves and later teams including the Los Angeles Lakers. Known for exceptional passing and scoring skills, contributed to the teams' successes during the 1970s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 14th
Fernando Wood
American politician, 73rd Mayor of NYC
Born
February 14th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1881 144 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1812, a prominent merchant and politician served as the 73rd Mayor of New York City from 1855 to 1857. His tenure was marked by efforts to promote economic development and infrastructure improvements in the city. Wood, holding office amid the complexities of pre-Civil War America, also faced criticism regarding his governance and dealings with corruption. He was a member of the Democratic Party and later served in the U.S. House of Representatives. His political career reflected the dynamic nature of urban politics during a transformative period in American history.
Continue ReadingHerbert Strudwick
English cricketer and noted coach
Born
January 28th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1970 55 years ago — 90 years old
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Continue ReadingTonmi Lillman
Finnish drummer and music producer
Born
1973 53 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 39 years old
This individual was a prominent drummer and music producer from Finland. Played with the band Sinergy and contributed to numerous other projects within the metal genre. Worked extensively on producing and mixing recordings for various artists, showcasing a unique sound that influenced the Finnish music scene. Lillman was also a member of several other bands, including Kylähullut and the live assembly of the band Amberian Dawn. His contributions to the music industry continued up until his death in 2012.
Continue ReadingMike Stepovich
American politician, Governor of Alaska
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the last Governor of the Alaska Territory from 1957 until statehood in 1959. Contributed to the transition of Alaska from a territory to the 49th state. Played a significant role in the development of state laws and governance during this transition period. After becoming a state, continued a career in law and local politics, influencing various local government functions.
Continue ReadingRyan Larkin
Canadian animator and director
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2007 18 years ago — 64 years old
An animator and director, contributed significantly to the field of animation in Canada. Gained recognition for short films that showcased innovative techniques and storytelling. Most notable works include the Academy Award-nominated film 'Walking' and the influential short 'Street Musique'. His style reflected a unique and artistic vision that resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingGeorge Shearing
Jazz Pianist and Composer, 'Lullaby of Birdland'
Born
August 13th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
An English-American pianist and composer, noted for pioneering the art of jazz piano. Grew up in London, where a visual impairment shaped musical style. Moved to the United States in 1947 and gained recognition for unique arrangements that blended swing, bebop, and classical elements. Formed the George Shearing Quintet, achieving commercial success in the 1950s. Founded the popular standard 'Lullaby of Birdland', which became a jazz classic. Collaborated with numerous prominent jazz musicians and maintained a prolific recording career, spanning several decades until retiring in the mid-2000s.
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