Valentín Canalizo
Mexican general and 14th President
A Mexican general and politician served as the 14th President of Mexico from 1843 to 1844. He played a significant role during a tumultuous period in Mexican history marked by political instability and conflict. Canalizo was initially a supporter of the conservative forces and held various military positions before assuming the presidency. His tenure was characterized by ongoing struggles with rival factions and social unrest. After leaving office, Canalizo held command in military operations and continued to be involved in politics until his death in 1850.
Served as 14th President of Mexico
Held multiple military commands
Other People Born on February 12th
Kim Ji-min
South Korean actress with notable roles
Born
February 12th, 2000 26 years ago
Born on February 12, 2000, in South Korea, this actress gained recognition for her performances in television dramas. Significant roles include appearances in the series 'My Love from the Star' and '25, 21'. Through her talent, she established a presence in the South Korean entertainment industry, appealing to a broad audience and garnering a dedicated fan base.
Continue ReadingJulian Simon
Economist and author of population growth
Born
February 12th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1998 28 years ago — 65 years old
An economist and author focused on population growth and resource availability contributed significant perspectives in the debates surrounding population and resources. Employed the ideas of economic theory to argue that human innovation could yield solutions to resource scarcity. Authored influential books including 'The Ultimate Resource', which posited that human creativity is key to overcoming limitations posed by natural resources. Engaged in public policy discussions, influencing perceptions on population dynamics and economic growth.
Continue ReadingJohan Laidoner
Estonian-Russian general and military leader
Born
February 12th, 1884 142 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1953 73 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1884, served as a key military leader in Estonia. Played a crucial role in the Estonian War of Independence, leading Estonian forces to victory against Bolshevik and German troops. Held the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Estonian Army from 1919 to 1920 and later served again from 1924 until 1940. Contributed to the establishment of a national military framework and strategic defense initiatives.
Continue ReadingJérémy Chardy
Tennis player with ATP titles
Born
February 12th, 1987 39 years ago
A professional tennis player from France, achieved significant success in singles and doubles events. Reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 25 in 2013. Competed in multiple Grand Slam tournaments, reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. Won several ATP titles in singles and doubles. Represented France in international competitions, including the Davis Cup.
Continue ReadingPeter Vanderkaay
American Olympic swimmer and medalist
Born
February 12th, 1984 42 years ago
A competitive swimmer specializing in freestyle events, achieved significant success on both national and international stages. Represented the United States in the Olympics, contributing to team relay events and winning multiple medals. Competed in the 2004 Athens and the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, showcasing talent and determination. Excelled in collegiate swimming at the University of Michigan, leading the team to NCAA championships.
Continue ReadingJennifer Stone
Actress known for 'Wizards of Waverly Place'
Born
February 12th, 1993 33 years ago
An actress gained recognition for portraying Harper Finkle in the Disney Channel series 'Wizards of Waverly Place'. The role earned a Teen Choice Award nomination. Additional appearances include roles in 'The Inbetweeners' and various television films. Stone has also engaged in voice work, contributing to animated projects. Apart from acting, involvement in advocacy related to health issues has been noted.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 20th
Laura Bassi
Italian physicist and scholar
Born
October 29th, 1711 314 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1778 248 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed to the development of physics and experimental science in the 18th century. Became the first woman to earn a degree in physics in Italy. Held a position at the University of Bologna, where taught for decades. Conducted experiments and published findings on topics such as hydraulics and mechanics, influencing future generations of scientists.
Continue ReadingMildred Dresselhaus
American physicist and 'Queen of Carbon'
Born
November 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2017 9 years ago — 86 years old
Contributions to the field of physics focused on carbon nanostructures and materials. Played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding of thermoelectric materials. Served as a professor at MIT, influencing generations of students in the field of physics and electrical engineering. Received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Continue ReadingNicholas Bacon
English politician and Lord Keeper
Born
December 28th, 1510 515 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1579 447 years ago — 68 years old
Served as the Lord Keeper of the Great Seal from 1558 until death in 1579. Played a significant role in Elizabethan politics, supporting the queen during her reign. As a prominent figure in the Privy Council, contributed to important legislative matters and the administration of justice. Involved in various diplomatic missions and the management of foreign policy. Maintained a strong advisory role to Elizabeth I, impacting the governance of England during a crucial period.
Continue ReadingRobert Peary
Explorer of the Arctic regions
Born
May 6th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1920 106 years ago — 63 years old
An American admiral and explorer, played a significant role in Arctic exploration, leading multiple expeditions to the North Pole. In 1909, claimed to have reached the North Pole, although the validity of the claim has been debated. Conducted expeditions that contributed to the mapping and scientific understanding of the Arctic region. Also explored Greenland, gathering valuable data on its geography and culture.
Continue ReadingSandra Dee
American actress, starred in Gidget
Born
April 23rd, 1942 83 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2005 21 years ago — 62 years old
An actress achieved fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Gained recognition for starring in films such as 'Gidget', 'A Summer Place', and 'Take Her, She's Mine'. Appeared in numerous television shows, becoming a popular figure in teen films. Became a teen idol and appeared on magazine covers, symbolizing the era's youth culture. Struggled with personal challenges later in life.
Continue ReadingPope Martin V
Pope and leader of the Catholic Church
Born
1368 658 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1431 595 years ago — 63 years old
Served as Pope from 1417 until death in 1431. Played a crucial role in ending the Western Schism, which had divided the Catholic Church for nearly four decades. Convened the Council of Constance, which sought to address various church disputes and improve ecclesiastical practices. Focused on the restoration of the papacy's authority in Rome and worked to mend divisions within the church.
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