Anthony Mason
Australian soldier and Chief Justice
Served as a soldier during World War II before pursuing a career in law. Became a significant figure in the Australian legal system and held the position of Chief Justice of Australia from 1987 to 1995. Contributed to various landmark legal decisions and reforms during tenure, influencing the judiciary in Australia. Mason had a distinguished career in both the military and the judiciary, with a focus on promoting justice and legal integrity.
Served as the 9th Chief Justice of Australia
Participated in World War II as a soldier
Other People Born on April 21st
Jan van Riebeeck
Dutch politician, founder of Cape Town
Born
April 21st, 1619 406 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1677 348 years ago — 57 years old
A Dutch politician established a refreshment station for the Dutch East India Company at Cape of Good Hope in 1652, which later evolved into Cape Town. The settlement aimed to provide support for ships en route to the East Indies. Van Riebeeck served as the company's first commander, overseeing the initial development of the colony, including agriculture and trade routes. He played a critical role in the interactions between European settlers and local indigenous populations during the early stages of colonial expansion in Southern Africa.
Continue ReadingPat Brown
American politician, 32nd Governor of California
Born
April 21st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 32nd Governor of California from 1959 to 1967. Implemented significant policy reforms in education and water management. Advocated for the construction of the California State Water Project, which aimed to improve water supply and distribution across the state. His administration focused on civil rights and economic growth. Before his governorship, practiced law and served as the District Attorney of San Francisco.
Continue ReadingIgnatius Zakka I Iwas
Iraqi patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church
Born
April 21st, 1933 92 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church from 1980 until death in 2014. Oversaw a significant period of growth within the church and participated in interfaith dialogue efforts, promoting cooperation among different Christian denominations and between religions. Actively engaged in humanitarian work, focusing on the rights and welfare of Christians in the Middle East. His leadership spanned major events affecting the church and its followers in Iraq and beyond.
Continue ReadingEfrem Zimbalist Sr.
Violinist and conductor of the 20th century
Born
April 21st, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent violinist and conductor, made significant contributions to classical music throughout a long career. Studied at the Royal Conservatory in Brussels and under the tutelage of renowned violinists. Personal performances included collaborations with major orchestras around the world. Also known for compositions and arrangements that highlighted the violin's capabilities. Recognized as a music educator, influencing students and future generations. Served as a conductor for several notable orchestras and held prestigious positions at leading music institutions.
Continue ReadingYoshito Usui
Japanese illustrator of Crayon Shin-chan
Born
April 21st, 1958 67 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 51 years old
An illustrator and manga artist, gained prominence through the creation of the manga series Crayon Shin-chan, which debuted in 1990. The series follows the adventures of a mischievous five-year-old boy and reflects everyday life in a humorous manner. Usui's work led to adaptations in both animated television series and films, achieving widespread popularity in Japan and internationally. His distinctive drawing style and storytelling contributed to the series being recognized as a significant work in manga culture.
Continue ReadingSimon de la Loubère
French mathematician and diplomat
Born
April 21st, 1642 383 years ago
Died
1729 296 years ago — 87 years old
A mathematician, poet, and diplomat, contributions included significant work in mathematics, particularly in the field of combinatorics and number theory. Served as a diplomat in the court of Siam, which involved intricate interactions between cultures. Authored several mathematical texts that combined poetic elements with rigorous mathematical formulations. His time as a diplomat was marked by keen observations of Siamese culture and rituals, documented in writings that provide historical insights into 17th-century Siam.
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