What happened today in history?

What happened
today in history?
[ Feb 28 ]

2023 - Tribute to Brian O'Brien: A Rugby Legend

Brian O'Brien, the notable Irish rugby union centre and selector, dies at 83. He left an impactful legacy in rugby through his playing career and as a selector for Ireland and the British & Irish Lions.

2021 - Remembering Keith Rigg: A Cricketing Legacy

Keith Rigg, the Australian cricket batsman known for his remarkable high score of 127 and contributions to Victoria, passed away at the age of 88. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of cricketers.

2021 - Remembering Glenn Roeder: A Legacy in Soccer

Glenn Roeder, a prominent figure in English soccer as both a defender and manager, passed away at 65 from a brain tumor in 2021. His contributions to clubs like Newcastle United and Watford solidified his legacy in the sport.

2018 - Remembering Harvey Schmidt: A Musical Legacy

Harvey Schmidt, an iconic American musical theatre composer known for classics like The Fantasticks and 110 in the Shade, passed away in 2018 at the age of 88, leaving a rich legacy of music and storytelling in the theatre world.

2015 - The Legacy of Alex Johnson: A Life Cut Short

Alex Johnson, a celebrated MLB outfielder and 1970 AL batting champion, passed away from prostate cancer in September 2015. Remembered for his talent on the field with the California Angels, his legacy inspires future generations of players.

Alex Johnson

2015 - The Life and Legacy of NBA Player Anthony Mason

Anthony Mason, the dynamic NBA forward known for his time with the New York Knicks and Charlotte Hornets, passed away at the age of 48 from a heart attack. His legacy in basketball is marked by his tenacity and unique playing style.

2014 - The Legacy of Rostislav Belyakov

Rostislav Belyakov, a pivotal figure in aviation as the chief designer of MiG fighter jets, passed away in 2014 at the age of 94. His legacy and impact on military aviation continue to inspire engineers and aviation enthusiasts alike.

2011 - The Life and Legacy of Annie Girardot

Annie Girardot, the acclaimed French actress known for her work in films like 'Three Rooms in Manhattan' and 'Gypsy', passed away on February 28, 2011, at the age of 79, leaving a lasting legacy in the film industry.

2011 - The Legacy of Jane Russell: A Tribute to a Hollywood Icon

Jane Russell, the iconic American actress known for her role in 'The Outlaw', passed away on February 28, 2011, at the age of 89. Her legacy as a leading sex symbol of the 1940s-50s, along with her advocacy for women's rights in Hollywood, continues to inspire generations.

2010 - Remembering Tom 'T-Bone' Wolk: A Musical Legacy

Tom 'T-Bone' Wolk, the celebrated bassist of Hall & Oates, made a huge impact in music before his untimely death at 51 from a heart attack in 2010. Remembering his rich legacy and contributions to rock music captures the essence of his artistic journey.

2009 - The Legacy of Paul Harvey

Paul Harvey, the iconic American news commentator and broadcaster known for 'The Rest of the Story,' died on February 28, 2009, at the age of 90. His storytelling and distinct voice left a lasting legacy in the world of radio and journalism.

Paul Harvey

2007 - The Legacy of Billy Thorpe: A Musical Icon

Billy Thorpe, the British-Australian musician known for hits like 'Children of the Sun' and 'Mashed Potato,' passed away in 2007 due to a heart attack. His legacy in rock music continues to inspire many.

2006 - The Life and Legacy of Owen Chamberlain

Owen Chamberlain, a notable American physicist who died in 2006 at age 85, revolutionized particle physics with his discovery of the antiproton. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1959, solidifying his legacy in the scientific community.

Owen Chamberlain

2004 - The Legacy of Daniel J. Boorstin

The death of Daniel J. Boorstin in 2004 left a significant void in the field of American history. As a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and Librarian of Congress, his works deeply explored the nuances of American democracy and culture.

2002 - The Life and Legacy of Helmut Zacharias

Helmut Zacharias, a renowned German violinist and composer, passed away at the age of 82 on August 28, 2002. His contributions to classical music continue to inspire musicians worldwide, reflecting his exceptional talent and innovative spirit.

1999 - Honoring Bill Talbert: A Tennis Legend Gone at 80

Bill Talbert, an American tennis player known for his 9 Grand Slam doubles titles and a strong competitive spirit, passed away at the age of 80 in 1999. His contributions to the world of tennis continue to inspire future generations.

1998 - The Death of Arkady Shevchenko: A Soviet Diplomat's Legacy

The death of Arkady Shevchenko, a notable Soviet diplomat who defected to the U.S. in 1978, marked a significant moment in Cold War history. His contributions to international diplomacy and critiques of Soviet policies left a complex legacy that continues to resonate today.

1994 - Remembering Elbert 'Skippy' Williams: A Jazz Legacy

Elbert 'Skippy' Williams, the renowned jazz tenor saxophonist, passed away in 1994. His contributions to jazz as an artist and arranger remain influential, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. He is fondly remembered for his rich musical legacy.

1993 - The Legacy of Ruby Keeler: Remembering a Star

Ruby Keeler, a renowned Canadian-American actress, singer, and dancer, passed away from kidney cancer in 1993. Known for her iconic roles in '42nd Street' and 'Dames', her legacy continues to inspire in the world of musical theatre.

1991 - Remembering Wassily Hoeffding: A Legacy in Statistics

Wassily Hoeffding, a prominent American statistician born in 1914, passed away in 1991. His revolutionary contributions to statistics and probability theory have left a profound impact on the field, influencing various domains and future generations of statisticians.

1990 - The Life and Legacy of Fabia Drake

Fabia Drake, renowned for her role in 'Nice Girl Like Me', passed away on March 28, 1990, at the age of 86. A talented actress born in London, she made significant contributions to film and theater, inspiring many with her remarkable performances.

1988 - Remembering Harvey Kuenn: A Baseball Legend

Harvey Kuenn, a celebrated American baseball player and AL batting champion in 1959, died on February 20, 1988, at the age of 57 due to heart disease and diabetes. He left behind a rich legacy as a skilled utility player and mentor.

1988 - The Life and Legacy of Mikha`il Na'imah

Mikha`il Na'imah, a prominent Lebanese playwright and poet, passed away at the age of 99 on February 22, 1988. His works have had a lasting impact on Arabic literature, blurring lines between traditional and modern narratives, while inspiring future generations.

1987 - The Life and Legacy of Nora Kaye

Nora Kaye, the celebrated American ballet dancer and choreographer, passed away from cancer at 67 in 1987. Her contributions to dance, both on stage and in musicals, transformed the industry and inspired countless performers.

1986 - The Assassination of Olof Palme: A Political Tragedy

On February 28, 1986, Olof Palme, the Prime Minister of Sweden, was assassinated while walking home from the cinema with his wife. This shocking act of violence left a lasting legacy and raised questions about political safety in a nation known for its stability.

Olof Palme

1985 - The Legacy of Charita Bauer: A Life in Acting

Charita Bauer, an American actress celebrated for her roles in 'The Guiding Light' and 'Aldrich Family,' passed away at 62 after a long illness in 1985. Her contributions to television left a lasting impact on both audiences and fellow actors.

1985 - The Untimely Death of David Byron

David Byron, the British singer and songwriter of Uriah Heep, faced a tragic end due to alcohol-related complications at just 38. His powerful voice and stage presence left a lasting mark on rock music, continuing to inspire future generations.

1979 - Farewell to Mr. Ed: The Beloved Talking Horse

In 1979, the beloved television character Mr. Ed, known for his witty dialogue and charming antics, passed away. This article reflects on his impact on popular culture and the joy he brought to millions during his run on TV.

1978 - The Last Voyage of Eric Frank Russell

Eric Frank Russell, a notable science fiction author known for works like 'Deep Space' and 'The Wasp', passed away at 73 in 1978. His imaginative narratives and profound themes continue to influence the genre today.

1977 - The Legacy of Eddie 'Rochester' Anderson: A Comedic Icon

Eddie 'Rochester' Anderson, a pioneering figure in American television and comedy, died on February 10, 1977, at the age of 71. He was best known for his role on The Jack Benny Program, where he broke racial stereotypes and left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

1975 - The Legacy of István Kardos: A Hungarian Maestro

István Kardos, a Hungarian composer known for his rich contributions to music, passed away in 1975 at the age of 83. His innovative blending of traditional folk music with classical elements has left a lasting legacy in Hungarian music.

1973 - The Life and Legacy of Cecil Kellaway

Cecil Kellaway, an iconic South African-American actor known for films like 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner,' passed away at the age of 82 in 1973. Renowned for his diverse roles, his legacy endures through his impactful performances.

1968 - The Untimely Death of Doretta Morrow

Doretta Morrow, an American actress known for her role in 'Because You're Mine', tragically passed away from cancer at the age of 41 in 1968. Her vibrant career in acting and music left a lasting legacy despite her untimely death.

1968 - The Legacy of Juanita Hall: Remembering an Icon

Juanita Hall was a pioneering American actress and singer celebrated for her roles in 'South Pacific' and 'Flower Drum Song.' She passed away on February 29, 1968, at 66, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

1967 - The Legacy of Henry Luce: American Magazine Pioneer

Henry Luce, the influential American magazine publisher and co-founder of Time, Fortune, and Life, died in 1967 at the age of 68. His contributions significantly shaped journalism, characterized by innovative editorial approaches and a focus on photojournalism.

1966 - Tragic Death of NASA Astronaut Charles A. Bassett II

On February 28, 1966, NASA astronaut Charles A. Bassett II tragically died in a T-38 jet crash. A promising Air Force Captain, his contributions to space exploration inspired many. His legacy lives on despite the tragedy that cut his career short.

1966 - The Tragic Death of Jonathan Hale

Jonathan Hale was a talented Canadian-American actor known for his roles in the Blondie and The Saint films. Tragically, he took his own life at 74, highlighting the unseen struggles even successful individuals can face.

1965 - The Legacy of Adolf Schärf: Austria's Beloved Leader

Adolf Schärf, President of Austria from 1957 to 1965, was a pivotal figure in Austrian politics, known for his dedication to social welfare and national unity. He passed away at 74, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and progressive policies that shaped the nation.

1964 - The Life and Legacy of Gus Lesnevich

Gus Lesnevich, the renowned American light heavyweight boxing champion, died on March 11, 1964, at the age of 49. His career spanned throughout the late 1930s to the 1940s, where he became an inspirational figure in boxing history.

1963 - The Life and Legacy of Theodore Newton

Theodore Newton, an American actor famed for his roles in 'Voltaire' and 'Ace of Aces', died at 58 in 1963. His enduring legacy in film and television continues to inspire new generations.

1959 - The Life and Death of Maxwell Anderson

Maxwell Anderson, the esteemed American dramatist known for works like 'Key Largo' and 'Bath Seed', passed away from a stroke in 1959 at the age of 70. His profound influence on American theater continues to resonate today.

Maxwell Anderson

1941 - The Death of King Alfonso XIII of Spain

Alfonso XIII, King of Spain from 1886 to 1931, died of a heart attack in Rome at age 54. His reign was marked by political turmoil and attempts at modernization, leading to significant changes in Spain's monarchy and history.

Alfonso XIII

1935 - The Legacy of Alexander Willem Frederik Idenburg

Alexander Willem Frederik Idenburg, a prominent Dutch politician and Governor-General of the Dutch Indies, died in 1935 at the age of 73. His reforms and policies significantly influenced colonial governance during his tenure from 1909 to 1916.

1930 - The Untimely Death of C. K. Scott-Moncrieff

C. K. Scott-Moncrieff, the Scottish writer and translator known for his exceptional work on Proust's "In Search of Lost Time", sadly passed away at the age of 40 in 1930, leaving a remarkable literary legacy.

1929 - The Tragic Death of Clemens von Pirquet

Clemens von Pirquet, the Austrian physician known for pioneering tuberculosis diagnosis and coining 'allergy,' tragically committed suicide in 1929 at the age of 54. His innovations left a lasting impact on medicine, highlighting the importance of both physical and mental health in the medical profession.

1929 - The Life and Legacy of John Ebenezer West

John Ebenezer West, an influential English composer, passed away in 1929. His compelling compositions and teaching shaped the musical landscape and inspired generations, solidifying his enduring legacy in music history.

1913 - 1913 Elephant Seal Shooting in South Georgia

In 1913, a massive southern elephant seal was shot in Possession Bay, South Georgia. This event highlighted the challenges faced by wildlife due to human activities and sparked future conservation efforts for marine species.

1912 - The Death of Bill Storer: A Cricket Legend

Bill Storer, the celebrated English cricket wicket-keeper who played 6 Test matches from 1897 to 1899, passed away in 1912. Known for his significant contributions to the sport, Storer's legacy continues to inspire future generations of cricketers.

1891 - The Death of George Hearst: A Legacy Remembered

George Hearst, a prominent American businessman and U.S. Senator from California, died at the age of 70 in 1891. His contributions to mining and politics shaped California's development, making his legacy lasting and significant in American history.

1882 - Death of John Romney Robinson: A Legacy in Astronomy

John Romney Robinson, an influential Irish astronomer and physicist, passed away at the age of 89 in 1882. His contributions to the field of astronomy, especially at the Armagh Observatory, cemented his legacy as a pioneer of astronomical research.

1844 - Tragic Explosion on the USS Princeton

On February 28, 1844, Thomas W. Gilmer, the Secretary of the Navy, tragically died in an explosion aboard the USS Princeton, a steam-powered warship, during a demonstration. The incident led to significant advancements in naval safety protocols.

1796 - The Life and Legacy of Friedrich Wilhelm Rust

Friedrich Wilhelm Rust, a German violinist and composer, died in 1796 at the age of 56. His contributions to violin music and composition left a significant legacy, influencing generations of musicians and composers in the classical music realm.

1746 - The Life and Legacy of Hermann von der Hardt

Hermann von der Hardt, a noted German historian, died in 1746 at the age of 85. His works significantly impacted the field of medieval studies, promoting a rigorous approach to historical scholarship that continues to influence historians today.

1737 - The Legacy of Hercule Brehy: A Flemish Virtuoso

Hercule Brehy, the talented Flemish composer and organist, passed away in 1737, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that influenced the future generations of musicians in Flanders. His innovative compositions and mentorship were paramount to the development of baroque music.

1638 - The Life and Death of Henri Duc de Rohan

Henri Duc de Rohan, a noted French Huguenot leader and military strategist, died on March 13, 1638. His contributions to the Huguenot cause and fight for religious freedom left a lasting impact on France's history.

1626 - The Death of Cyril Tourneur: A Poet's Final Bow

Cyril Tourneur, an influential English poet and dramatist, died around 1626 at approximately 51 years old. His works, notably 'The Revenger's Tragedy,' leave an enduring legacy in the realm of literature, showcasing dark themes and intricate character explorations.

1572 - Remembering Aegidius Tschudi: The Swiss Historian

Aegidius Tschudi, a prominent Swiss historian born in 1505, passed away in 1572. He is known for his influential work 'Chronicon Helveticum,' which chronicled Swiss history and highlighted the importance of historical scholarship. His legacy continues to inspire the study of Swiss heritage.

1525 - The Tragic Fate of Cuauhtémoc, Last Aztec Emperor

Explore the tragic story of Cuauhtémoc, the last Aztec Emperor, who bravely led his people during the Spanish conquest before being captured, tortured, and killed by Hernán Cortés. His legacy endures as a symbol of resistance against oppression.

Cuauhtémoc

1510 - The Life and Death of Juan de la Cosa

Juan de la Cosa (c. 1450-60 - 1510) Spanish cartographer, explorer and conquistador who designed the earliest European world map, shot with poison arrows and killed by indigenous people during an armed confrontation near modern day Turbaco, Colombia

Juan de la Cosa

1326 - The Death of Duke Leopold I of Austria in 1326

Duke Leopold I of Austria, a key figure in medieval politics, died in 1326. His rule was marked by military prowess and contributions to the cultural landscape of Austria, leaving a significant legacy for future leaders.

1261 - Death of Henry III, Duke of Brabant

Henry III, Duke of Brabant, died in 1261 at the young age of about 30, leaving behind a legacy of strong leadership amidst turbulent times. His passing created a power vacuum in the region, impacting the future of Brabant.

642 - The Death of King Oswald of Northumbria

King Oswald of Northumbria, a pivotal figure in early English history, died in the Battle of Maserfield in 642 AD. His reign marked significant religious influence and his legacy as a saint lives on through history.