William Stanley
English engineer and philanthropist
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Contributed significantly to the development of electrical technology during the 19th century. Created innovations in electrical transformers that improved power distribution. Founded the first company to manufacture transformers, which played a critical role in advancing the electrical industry. Engaged in philanthropic efforts to support education and the welfare of communities.
Invented the first practical transformer
Established the first transformer manufacturing company
Other People Born on February 2nd
Salem al-Hazmi
Terrorist and hijacker of Flight 77
Born
February 2nd, 1981 44 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 20 years old
Born in Saudi Arabia in 1981, engaged in the September 11 attacks. Hijacked American Airlines Flight 77, which was crashed into the Pentagon. Coordinated with other hijackers as part of a larger group involved in planned attacks on U.S. soil. Operated under the directive of terrorist organizations with goals to incite fear and promote their ideology.
Continue ReadingHoward Deering Johnson
Businessman and founder of Howard Johnson's
Born
February 2nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 75 years old
Founded the Howard Johnson's restaurant and hotel chain, creating a brand associated with comfort food and family dining in America. Established a distinctive franchise system that became influential in the hospitality industry. The first location opened in 1925 in Quincy, Massachusetts, expanding to over a thousand locations across the United States and Canada at its peak. Contributed to the popularization of roadside dining and lodging with consistent branding and menu offerings.
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Comedian and author, classic humorist
Born
February 2nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1993 32 years ago — 62 years old
An English comedian and author widely recognized for a unique brand of humor that often combined wit and pathos. Career began in the 1950s with a focus on stand-up comedy, leading to numerous performances on television. Gained prominence through appearances on shows such as 'The Les Dawson Show' and 'Blankety Blank'. Authored several books, sharing personal anecdotes and comedic observations. Emphasized the comedic potential of everyday life and relationships, which resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingNell Gwyn
English actress and royal mistress
Born
February 2nd, 1650 375 years ago
Died
1687 338 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1650, this actress rose to prominence in the Restoration theatre, gaining fame for performances at the King's Company. Established a reputation for both her acting and her charming personality. Became the mistress of King Charles II, which elevated her status within society. Known to have had a significant influence on the arts and culture of her time, her life reflected the intersection of theatre and royalty in 17th century England. Eventually, she retired from the stage and focused on her relationship with the King, giving birth to two of his children.
Continue ReadingEva Cassidy
Singer known for 'Songbird' album
Born
February 2nd, 1963 62 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1996 29 years ago — 33 years old
Born in 1963, a talented American singer and guitarist. Gained recognition posthumously for powerful vocal performances. Blended various musical genres including folk, jazz, and pop. Released the album 'Songbird' in 1998, which showcased unique interpretations of classic songs. Her renditions of 'Over the Rainbow' and 'Fields of Gold' contributed to a strong cult following. Although initially underappreciated during her lifetime, her music gained significant airplay and sales years after her death, leading to multiple posthumous awards and accolades.
Continue ReadingJohnston McCulley
Author of Zorro stories
Born
February 2nd, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 75 years old
An American author and screenwriter, contributions include the creation of the character Zorro, first introduced in the 1919 story 'The Curse of Capistrano'. The character became a popular hero in various adaptations, including films, television series, and comics. The iconic masked vigilante, known for his swordsmanship and wit, captured the imagination of readers and viewers alike.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 14th
Delwar Hossain Sayeedi
Bangladeshi Islamic lecturer and politician
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2023 2 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Islamic lecturer and politician in Bangladesh, played a significant role in religious and political spheres. Sayeedi served as a member of parliament and was associated with the Jamaat-e-Islami party. His lectures focused on Islamic teachings and were influential among his followers. Over the years, he was involved in various socio-political movements, advocating for Islamic values and policies. In 2013, he was convicted of war crimes related to the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War and received a death sentence, which drew widespread attention and sparked numerous protests and discussions. His political career and legal battles highlighted the complex interplay of religion and politics in Bangladesh.
Continue ReadingJack Germond
Journalist and political commentator
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
This individual was a prominent journalist and author known for political reporting. Worked for major newspapers including the Baltimore Sun and the Washington Star. Developed a reputation for insightful commentary on American politics. Co-authored several books providing analysis on presidential elections and political history. Contributed to PBS's The McLaughlin Group as a panelist, offering perspectives on contemporary political issues. Played a significant role in shaping political discourse through journalism and media appearances.
Continue ReadingJames R. Thompson
Politician, Governor of Illinois
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2020 5 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 37th Governor of Illinois from 1977 to 1991. Oversaw significant economic changes and was instrumental in the state's fiscal policies. During tenure, focused on education reform and infrastructure development. Appointed as a member of several influential boards and committees post-governorship, contributing to various public initiatives.
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American lawyer and Watergate judge
Born
March 19th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1992 33 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a federal judge in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Gained prominence during the Watergate scandal, overseeing the trial of key figures involved in the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters. Ordered the release of tapes that led to significant revelations about presidential misconduct. His rulings contributed to the eventual resignation of President Richard Nixon in 1974.
Continue ReadingSvetozar Gligorić
Chess Grandmaster and author
Born
February 2nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
A significant figure in chess during the mid-20th century, made notable contributions as a player and author. Achieved the title of Grandmaster in 1950 and participated in numerous tournaments across Europe and international competitions. Competed in both World Chess Championships and various chess Olympiads, contributing to the Yugoslav national team. Authored several books on chess strategy and theory, influencing aspiring players and enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingAlice Childress
American actress and playwright
Born
October 12th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1994 31 years ago — 77 years old
An actress and playwright emerged in the mid-20th century, recognized for contributions to theater that addressed social issues. Writings included plays such as 'Trouble in Mind,' which examined racial tensions and the struggles of Black artists. Worked in various theatrical productions, acting in both stage and film. Additionally, Childress authored several novels and children's books. She advocated for civil rights throughout her career and influenced many artists and writers in her community.
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