Alan Shepard
Astronaut, Apollo 14 Commander

Born
November 18th, 1923
101 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1998
27 years ago — 74 years old
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
United States
Links & References
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
Danka Kovinić
Played professional tennis with a successful career beginning in 2010. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 46 in July 2016. Competed in multiple Grand Slam tournaments, including reaching the third round of the Australian Open in 2015. Represented Montenegro in various international competitions, contributing to the growth of tennis in the region.
Continue ReadingTõnis Mägi
Born in Estonia in 1948, a singer-songwriter and actor emerged as a prominent figure in the Estonian music scene. The artist played a significant role in the Estonian Song Festival, an essential cultural event that celebrates choral and folk music. In the 1970s and 1980s, gained fame for blending traditional Estonian folk music with rock influences. Also participated in various theatrical productions, enhancing the cultural landscape of the region. The contributions to music and acting have left a lasting imprint on Estonian arts.
Continue ReadingSalvador Laurel
Served as the 10th Vice President of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992. Held various positions in government, including Secretary of Justice and Presidential Advisor on Legal Affairs. Contributed to the legal and political landscape of the Philippines through active involvement in key legislative reforms and governance.
Continue ReadingDamien Johnson
Born in 1978, a professional footballer played as a midfielder. Career began at the youth level with the team and progressed to making first-team appearances. Represented Birmingham City in the Premier League and earned a reputation for consistent performances. Internationally, represented the Republic of Ireland at various youth levels and earned caps for the senior team. After leaving Birmingham City, continued career with various lower league clubs.
Continue ReadingKim Wilde
A prominent figure in pop music during the 1980s, the individual rose to fame with the release of the hit single 'Kids in America' in 1981. This track achieved significant chart success in multiple countries and remains a defining song of the era. Following this success, several albums showcased a blend of new wave and pop rock styles. The individual also worked as a television presenter and author, contributing to various media projects while continuing to release music, including a comeback in the 2000s.
Continue ReadingShagrath
Born in 1976, a prominent figure in the Norwegian black metal scene, has primarily contributed as the lead vocalist for the band Dimmu Borgir. This music project gained significant recognition for its fusion of symphonic elements with black metal. The band gained international acclaim, particularly for the 1997 album "Enthrone Darkness Triumphant," which helped to elevate the genre globally. Shagrath also contributed to other music projects, showcasing versatility in style and performance. His theatrical stage presence and distinctive vocal style have been key components of live performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 21st
Robert Young
An American actor, this individual gained recognition for performances in television and film throughout the mid-20th century. Most notable were roles in the television series 'Father Knows Best' and 'Marcus Welby, M.D.'. The actor's career spanned several decades, transitioning from radio to film and ultimately to television. Performed in numerous films during the 1930s and 1940s, establishing a prominent presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingRobert G. Ingersoll
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 ReadingWilliam Bland
Bland was a prominent surgeon and political figure in Australia. Graduating with a degree in medicine, he gained recognition for his contributions to surgery and the medical field in the early 19th century. Bland also became involved in politics, serving as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Council. His efforts in these areas were significant during a time of political development in Australia. Additionally, he was an advocate for the rights of prisoners and played a role in prison reform.
Continue ReadingE. L. Doctorow
A prominent American writer, this individual crafted compelling works throughout a career spanning several decades. The writing style often blended historical events with fiction, creating rich narratives. Notable works include 'Ragtime', which depicts early 20th-century America, and 'Billy Bathgate', a novel exploring the life of a young man involved with gangster Dutch Schultz. The author also wrote plays that were well-received in theatrical circles. Contributions to American literature garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated readership.
Continue ReadingBill Gleason
Played professional baseball as a shortstop, primarily with the New York Giants in Major League Baseball during the early 1900s. Gleason had a career in baseball from 1901 to 1904, contributing to the team's performance during that era. Played in the shortstop position and was recognized for his fielding capabilities. After retiring from baseball, transitioned to roles in other baseball-related activities.
Continue ReadingBasil Rathbone
Born in South Africa, an actor predominantly worked in British and American film and theatre. Achieved prominence in the 1930s and 1940s, portraying Sherlock Holmes in a series of films, starting with 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' in 1939. Rathbone also starred in significant roles in films such as 'Captain Blood' and 'The Adventures of Robin Hood'. His theatrical background included performances on the London stage and Broadway. Rathbone's distinctive voice and commanding presence contributed to his enduring legacy in cinematic history.
Continue Reading