Verne Gagne
Professional wrestler and trainer
A prominent professional wrestler and trainer, contributed significantly to the wrestling industry. Gagne held the AWA World Heavyweight Championship several times, showcasing exceptional athleticism and skill. As a promoter, he established the American Wrestling Association in 1960, influencing the direction of professional wrestling in the United States. Transitioned from a successful amateur wrestling career, where he won a national championship during college. In later years, focused on training the next generation of wrestlers, mentoring many to stardom. Gagne's dedication to the sport earned him a place in various Halls of Fame, consolidating his legacy.
Held the AWA World Heavyweight Championship multiple times
Founded the American Wrestling Association
Trained numerous successful wrestlers
Other People Born on February 26th
Giulio Natta
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 26th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1979 46 years ago — 76 years old
An Italian chemist contributed significantly to the development of plastics and synthetic rubber. He served as a professor at the Polytechnic University of Milan. Research focused on stereospecific polymerization. Collaborated with Karl Ziegler, leading to advancements in polymer chemistry. Played a crucial role in the discovery of techniques for producing polypropylene and polyethylene.
Continue ReadingDante Ferretti
Art director and costume designer of movies
Born
February 26th, 1943 82 years ago
An Italian art director and costume designer, worked on numerous films during a prolific career. Collaborated with notable directors such as Martin Scorsese and Federico Fellini. Received multiple Academy Awards for Best Art Direction and Best Production Design. Contributions included iconic visual styles and settings that defined cinematic landscapes.
Continue ReadingMatti Turkia
Finnish politician and public servant
Born
February 26th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1946 79 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a prominent Finnish politician during the early to mid-20th century, contributing to the political landscape of Finland. Held various political positions, including membership in the Finnish Parliament. Focused on social and economic reforms that shaped the country during a transformative period. Engaged in political debates concerning national issues and participated in policies aimed at improving the welfare of Finnish citizens. His tenure coincided with significant events in Finnish history, including the aftermath of World War II.
Continue ReadingArchibald Campbell
Scottish peer and 9th Earl of Argyll
Born
February 26th, 1629 396 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1661 364 years ago — 32 years old
Born in 1629, a Scottish peer served as the 9th Earl of Argyll. Engaged in the political and military conflicts during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, he played a significant role in the Scottish Covenanters' struggle against royal authority. Initially siding with the Parliamentarians, eventually changed allegiance and supported the King. Was involved in key battles and governance during a tumultuous time in Scottish history. Was captured and executed in 1661 following conflicts related to his loyalty shifts and political maneuvers.
Continue ReadingOtis Bowen
Governor of Indiana and physician
Born
February 26th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old
A physician and politician served as the 44th Governor of Indiana from 1973 to 1981. During tenure as governor, focused on health care reforms and educational improvements. Contributed to the establishment of the Indiana Department of Mental Health. Held various medical and political positions throughout career, including serving as the Secretary of the Indiana State Board of Health. After governorship, continued to work in medicine and served in various capacities within the health sector.
Continue ReadingSimon Crean
Trade union leader and Australian politician
Born
February 26th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
June 25th, 2023 2 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a prominent trade union leader and politician in Australia. Held the role of leader of the Australian Labor Party from 2001 to 2003. Served as the Minister for Trade and the Minister for Regional Development, where significant contributions were made to labor policies and international trade agreements. Represented the electorate of Hotham in the House of Representatives from 1990 to 2013, participating in various legislative efforts during a pivotal time in Australian politics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 27th
Browning Ross
American runner and soldier
Born
April 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1998 27 years ago — 74 years old
Browning Ross was a distance runner and soldier. Competed in the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, representing the United States in the 10,000 meters event. Served in the United States Army during World War II, participating in significant military campaigns. Earned respect in the running community as a successful competitor and contributor to the sport.
Continue ReadingArdashir III of Persia
Last Sassanian King of Persia
Died
April 27th, 630 1395 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the last king of the Sassanian Empire during a period of decline. Ascended the throne in 628 following the death of his predecessor. Faced considerable challenges from internal divisions and external threats, particularly from the invading Arab forces. His reign was marked by the ongoing conflicts that weakened the empire significantly. Died in 630, shortly after assuming power, with the empire in a precarious state as it transitioned into a new era.
Continue ReadingMaria of Bosnia
Countess of Helfenstein
Born
1335 690 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1403 622 years ago — 68 years old
Born into nobility, held the title of Countess of Helfenstein. Played a significant role in the political landscape of her time through strategic marriages and alliances. Her lineage connected her to various noble families in Europe. Became an integral figure in the governance and influence of Bosnia, navigating the intricacies of feudal politics during the late medieval period.
Continue ReadingLiao Guoxun
Chinese politician with significant roles
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2022 3 years ago — 59 years old
Held various prominent positions in the Chinese political landscape, contributing to economic and regional development. Served as the governor of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, where policies focused on improving infrastructure and local governance. Participated in national politics and engaged in efforts aimed at enhancing relations within China's diverse regions. Had a background in education, which informed progressive approaches to policy-making.
Continue ReadingWillem Frederik Hermans
Dutch author and playwright
Born
September 1st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1995 30 years ago — 73 years old
An influential figure in Dutch literature, produced a significant body of work that includes novels, essays, and plays. Major works include the novel 'The Dark Room of Damocles' and the play 'The Eternal Return'. Contributed to the literary scene with a focus on existential themes and the human condition. Engaged in literary criticism and wrote extensively on various topics including philosophy and art.
Continue ReadingAntonio Gramsci
Italian philosopher and politician
Born
January 22nd, 1891 134 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1937 88 years ago — 46 years old
A prominent figure in 20th-century political theory, engaged in Marxist philosophy and political analysis. Contributed to the understanding of cultural hegemony and the role of intellectuals in society. Imprisoned by the Fascist regime in Italy, produced significant works during incarceration, including the influential 'Prison Notebooks'. His writings emphasized the importance of culture in political struggle and the need for a broad coalition among workers.
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