February 23 in History: Famous Births, Events, and Deaths

February 23 has witnessed numerous remarkable events and the birth of influential personalities throughout history. On this day, key moments unfolded in politics, science, and culture, from the signing of historic treaties to groundbreaking discoveries. It also marks the birthdays of several notable figures who made significant contributions in fields such as art, literature, sports, and leadership. The day serves as a reminder of humanity’s progress and the lasting impact of individual achievements on our shared global heritage.

Famous People Born on February 23

1685: George Frideric Handel: German-British Baroque composer best known for the oratorio “Messiah.”

1868: W. E. B. Du Bois: American sociologist, historian, and civil rights activist, co-founder of the NAACP.

1940: Peter Fonda: American actor, writer, and director, famed for the movie “Easy Rider.”

1952: Brad Whitford: American guitarist, member of the legendary rock band Aerosmith.

1965: Michael Dell: American entrepreneur, founder, and CEO of Dell Technologies.

1970: Niecy Nash: American actress, comedian, and television host.

1983: Emily Blunt: British actress known for “The Devil Wears Prada” and “A Quiet Place.”

1994: Dakota Fanning: American actress known for “War of the Worlds” and “The Alienist.”

Famous Events that Happened on February 23

1455: The first book, the Gutenberg Bible, was printed using movable type by Johannes Gutenberg in Mainz, Germany.

1836: The Battle of the Alamo began in San Antonio, Texas, marking a pivotal event in the Texas Revolution.

1898: French novelist Émile Zola was imprisoned for writing “J’accuse,” defending Alfred Dreyfus in the Dreyfus Affair.

1941: Glenn T. Seaborg and his team first produced and isolated plutonium at the University of California, Berkeley.

1945: U.S. Marines raised the American flag atop Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II.

1954: The first mass inoculation against polio with the Salk vaccine began in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

1991: U.S. President George H. W. Bush announced the start of the ground offensive phase of the Gulf War.

2008: Fidel Castro officially resigned as President of Cuba after nearly 50 years in power.

Famous People Who Died on February 23

1821: John Keats: Renowned English Romantic poet, known for works like “Ode to a Nightingale” and “To Autumn.”

1855: Carl Friedrich Gauss: German mathematician and physicist, known as the “Prince of Mathematicians.”

1945: Aleksandr Rodchenko: Russian avant-garde artist, sculptor, and photographer, pioneer of constructivism.

1965: Stan Laurel: British comedian and actor, one-half of the iconic comedy duo “Laurel and Hardy.”

1995: James Herriot: British veterinarian and author of the beloved “All Creatures Great and Small” series.

2012: Marie Colvin: American war correspondent for The Sunday Times, killed while reporting in Syria.

February 23 stands as a day rich in cultural, historical, and scientific significance. From the invention of the printing press revolutionizing human knowledge to pivotal moments in wars and political history, this date reminds us of humanity’s constant pursuit of progress. The events and milestones that occurred on this day have shaped societies, inspired generations, and continue to influence the modern world in profound ways.

It is also a day that celebrates remarkable individuals whose contributions in art, science, politics, and entertainment left an everlasting legacy. Whether through groundbreaking discoveries, timeless works of literature, or courageous acts of leadership, the lives and events associated with February 23 highlight the enduring spirit of innovation and resilience that defines human history.