Alan Shepard
Astronaut, Apollo 14 Commander
An American astronaut and test pilot, made history by becoming the first American in space in 1961 during the Freedom 7 mission. Commanded the Apollo 14 mission in 1971, which successfully landed on the Moon, conducting two lunar EVAs and collecting valuable geological samples. Instrumental in testing various experimental aircraft and spacecraft, advancing human spaceflight efforts.
First American in space in 1961
Commander of Apollo 14 mission
Second human to walk on the Moon
Other People Born on November 18th
Alec Issigonis
Car designer, creator of the Mini car
Born
November 18th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Greece and later residing in England, a prominent car designer developed the iconic Mini car in 1959. This compact vehicle became an automotive symbol of the 1960s and is celebrated for its innovative design and engineering. The designer worked for the British Motor Corporation (BMC), where the production of the Mini significantly impacted the automotive industry, blending efficiency with style. Contributing to multiple automotive projects, the designer's legacy is strongly tied to the Mini's lasting popularity.
Continue ReadingImogene Coca
American actress, comedian, and singer
Born
November 18th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2001 24 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1908, this American actress, comedian, and singer gained fame for performances in the entertainment industry. Made a significant impact in television with her work on the sketch comedy show 'Your Show of Shows', where she appeared alongside Sid Caesar. Coca also showcased her talents in films, including 'It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World'. Throughout her career, she received recognition for her contributions to both television and film entertainment, earning several awards, including an Emmy Award in 1954.
Continue ReadingAdolf Erik Nordenskiöld
Geologist and Arctic explorer
Born
November 18th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1901 124 years ago — 68 years old
Contributions to geology and exploration include significant voyages to the Arctic and the establishment of new routes. Led the first successful navigation of the Northeast Passage from Europe to Asia aboard the steamship Vega in 1878-1879. Published extensive research on the geology of the Arctic regions and the morphology of glaciers. Served as a professor in the field of geology and held a prominent position in the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, influencing future generations of scientists.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Joop
Fashion designer and founder of JOOP!
Born
November 18th, 1944 81 years ago
A prominent German fashion designer established a successful career in the fashion industry. Founded the label JOOP! in 1987, gaining recognition for innovative designs and unique style. Expanded the brand to include clothing, accessories, and fragrances. Additionally, ventured into interior design and held various roles in fashion-related projects. Contributed to the creative landscape through participation in fashion shows and trendy collaborations.
Continue ReadingPrince Louis Ferdinand of Prussia
Prussian military officer and musician
Born
November 18th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1806 219 years ago — 33 years old
Born into the Prussian royal family, played a significant role in military leadership during the Napoleonic Wars. Louis Ferdinand was an accomplished composer and pianist, contributing to the musical landscape of his time. He participated in several key battles and rose to the rank of major-general. An advocate for reforms in the military, he aimed to modernize the armed forces and improve conditions for soldiers. His life was marked by artistic endeavors alongside military duties, showcasing talents in both music and leadership.
Continue ReadingPatrick Blackett
Physicist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
November 18th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1974 51 years ago — 76 years old
An English physicist and academic contributed significantly to the fields of nuclear physics and particle physics. Developed the cloud chamber technique, leading to crucial discoveries in cosmic rays. Served as a professor at Imperial College London and held various positions within the academic community. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1948 for investigations of cosmic radiation and the discovery of the positron. His work laid important foundations in understanding subatomic particles and their interactions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 21st
Dave Garroway
Television journalist and host of Today
Born
July 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1982 43 years ago — 69 years old
This individual was a pioneering television journalist and the original host of the NBC morning show 'Today'. Beginning in 1952, the program introduced audiences to news, weather, and entertainment segments, setting a standard for morning television. Garroway's charismatic and laid-back style resonated with viewers and contributed to the show's early success. He also hosted 'Meet the Press' and made guest appearances on various programs. His career in journalism included work on radio before transitioning to television, where he became a significant figure in the industry until retiring in the early 1970s.
Continue ReadingDennis Green
American football coach and executive
Born
February 17th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2016 9 years ago — 67 years old
A football coach and executive, this individual served as the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings from 1992 to 1996, where a significant achievement included leading the team to the playoffs four times. Also coached the Arizona Cardinals from 2004 to 2006. Known for offensive strategies and player development, contributed to advancing the game's tactical elements. After coaching, worked as a sports executive.
Continue ReadingRuth St. Denis
Dancer and educator, Denishawn School founder
Born
January 20th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1968 57 years ago — 89 years old
Pioneer in modern dance, contributed to the development and popularization of dance as an art form in America. Founded the Denishawn School of Dancing and Related Arts with Ted Shawn, which became a major institution for training dancers. Created numerous original works that combined various cultural influences, emphasizing the spiritual and expressive aspects of movement. Collaborated with many prominent artists and musicians, and significantly impacted the landscape of American dance through performances and teaching.
Continue ReadingEdward B. Lewis
American biologist and Nobel Laureate
Born
May 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2004 21 years ago — 86 years old
An American biologist and geneticist contributed significantly to the understanding of genetic mechanisms through research on the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1995 for discovering genes controlling the development of body plan in organisms. His academic career included teaching at the California Institute of Technology, influencing generations of scientists. Conducted groundbreaking studies elucidating the role of homeotic genes in regulating the development of body segments.
Continue ReadingRobert G. Ingersoll
American soldier and politician
Born
August 11th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1899 126 years ago — 65 years old
Born on August 11, 1833, one served as a Union Army officer during the American Civil War. Later transitioned into a legal career, establishing a reputation as a prominent lawyer. Engaged in politics, one was elected to the Illinois legislature as a Republican. Advocated for secularism and free thought, earning recognition for speeches supporting civil liberties and religious freedom. Involved in the development of the modern agnostic movement, one emphasized reason and skepticism in public discourse.
Continue ReadingLee Miller
American photographer and model
Born
April 23rd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1977 48 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent figure in 20th-century photography, this individual transitioned from a successful modeling career to becoming a notable war correspondent during World War II. During the war, worked for Vogue, capturing powerful images of the conflict and its aftermath. Developed a unique photographic style that encompassed both fashion and documentary work. The portfolio included portraits of prominent artists and writers of the time.
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