Virgilijus Alekna
Lithuanian discus thrower, Olympic Champion
A highly skilled discus thrower, achieved significant success in athletics throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Secured gold medals at the 2000 Sydney and 2004 Athens Olympics, solidifying a prominent position in the sport. Dominated the European Athletics Championships, winning multiple titles. Recognized for setting personal and seasonal bests that contributed to a successful career.
Won gold at the 2000 Sydney Olympics
Won gold at the 2004 Athens Olympics
Competed in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics
Secured multiple European Championship titles
Other People Born on February 13th
Donnie Moore
Baseball player, pitcher for Angels
Born
February 13th, 1954 72 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1989 36 years ago — 35 years old
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1978, played as a pitcher primarily for the California Angels. Career spanned a decade, concluding in 1987. Appeared in 1986 postseason, contributing to the Angels' first playoff appearance in franchise history. Known for a notable performance in relief during the league championship series.
Continue ReadingHeinrich Caro
Chemist with contributions to dye industry
Born
February 13th, 1834 192 years ago
Died
1910 116 years ago — 76 years old
Contributions largely focused on the development of synthetic dyes. Entered the dye business in 1850 and worked at the chemical factory of von der Leyen. Notably collaborated on the invention of aniline dyes. Made significant advancements in chemical processes and compounds during the 19th century. Later in life, served as a professor, imparting knowledge to future generations in the field of chemistry.
Continue ReadingChuck Yeager
US Air Force General and test pilot
Born
February 13th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 97 years old
A pioneering test pilot and U.S. Air Force general, achieved a significant milestone in aviation history by breaking the sound barrier in 1947. Yeager's flight aboard the Bell X-1, named Glamorous Glennis, marked the first time a human surpassed the speed of sound. Following this groundbreaking achievement, Yeager continued to contribute to the field of aviation through numerous test flights and military service during World War II and the Vietnam War. Later, he served as a key figure in aerospace research, sharing expertise with various aircraft programs.
Continue ReadingOliver Reed
English actor in 'Gladiator'
Born
February 13th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1999 26 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1938, an English actor gained recognition for a commanding screen presence and intense performances. Career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1950s. Achievement includes a role in the Oscar-winning film 'Gladiator.' Also appeared in notable films such as 'The Curse of the Werewolf' and 'The Three Musketeers.' Worked in theater and television, showcasing versatility across different media. Reed's off-screen personality was as striking as his on-screen roles, contributing to a public image that blended charm with unpredictability.
Continue ReadingAung San
Burmese general and politician
Born
February 13th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1947 78 years ago — 32 years old
Served as a general in the Burma Independence Army and played a significant role in the struggle for independence from British rule. Became the 5th Premier of the British Crown Colony of Burma in 1947. Instrumental in the formation of the Anti-Fascist People’s Freedom League and in negotiations with the British government for Burma's independence. Assassinated in 1947 shortly after securing the promise of full independence.
Continue ReadingAqib Talib
American football cornerback and Super Bowl champion
Born
February 13th, 1986 40 years ago
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) for teams including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots, and Denver Broncos. Contributed to the Broncos' victory in Super Bowl 50. Recognized for his defensive skills and ability to intercept passes, achieving multiple Pro Bowl selections throughout the career. Retired after a successful tenure that left a significant mark on the field.
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