Cat Stevens
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Emerging in the late 1960s, this musician gained prominence with a series of successful albums and hit singles. Famous works include "Tea for the Tillerman" and "Bridge over Troubled Water." Transitioning towards a spiritual journey in the 1970s, the artist embraced Islam and changed his name to Yusuf Islam. Music career continued with various philanthropic efforts, returning to public performance in the 2000s with the album "An Other Cup."
Released the album 'Tea for the Tillerman'
Wrote the hit song 'Wild World'
Returned to music with 'An Other Cup' in 2006
Other People Born on July 21st
Milan Rastislav Štefánik
Slovak general and politician
Born
July 21st, 1880 145 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1919 106 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1880, a key figure in Czechoslovak history, played significant roles in astronomy, military, and politics. Émigré in France, he served as an aviator during World War I and became a general in the French Army. Instrumental in forming Czechoslovakia as a nation after the war, he emphasized the importance of Slovak identity. He held the position of Minister of War in the Czechoslovak National Council and advocated for Slovak autonomy. His life was cut short in 1919 when his plane crashed, leaving a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingEduard Streltsov
Soviet footballer and national team star
Born
July 21st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1990 35 years ago — 53 years old
This individual played as a forward and is recognized as one of the greatest Soviet footballers. Starting his professional career with Torpedo Moscow, he scored numerous goals and helped the team achieve success in domestic competitions. He represented the Soviet national team and participated in the 1962 FIFA World Cup. Despite a promising career, this individual faced challenges, including a ban that impacted professional play. After returning to football, he continued to contribute to the sport until retirement. His legacy includes a reputation as an outstanding player in Soviet football history.
Continue ReadingEmperor Wen of Sui
Emperor of the Sui dynasty
Born
July 21st, 541 1484 years ago
Ruled as the emperor of the Sui dynasty from 581 until 604. Initiated the unification of China after a long period of fragmentation following the fall of the Han dynasty. Established a centralized government and promoted economic development, including the construction of the Grand Canal to facilitate trade and communication. Implemented reforms in agriculture, land distribution, and taxation to improve the lives of common people. Laid the foundation for the subsequent Tang dynasty's expansion and governance.
Continue ReadingRussell Lee
American photographer and journalist
Born
July 21st, 1903 122 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1986 39 years ago — 83 years old
Worked as a photographer for the Farm Security Administration, capturing the plight of farm workers during the Great Depression. Contributed to documentary photography in America, focusing on rural life and social issues. Later served in the U.S. Army during World War II, producing photography for military publications. Published a significant body of work that illustrated the challenges faced by families and communities in America.
Continue ReadingLovis Corinth
German painter of post-impressionism
Born
July 21st, 1858 167 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1925 100 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1858, this artist contributed significantly to the post-impressionist movement in Germany. Initially trained in the academic tradition, later embraced a more expressive style, incorporating rich colors and dynamic brushwork. Created a wide range of works, including landscapes, portraits, and still lifes. Also involved in teaching, influencing a generation of artists. Played a pivotal role in various art societies and exhibited throughout Germany and Europe.
Continue ReadingJohn Atta Mills
Ghanaian politician, 3rd President
Born
July 21st, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 24th, 2012 13 years ago — 68 years old
Served as the 3rd President of Ghana from 2009 until death in 2012. Mills held academic qualifications in law and was a lecturer before entering politics. He studied in the United States and became a member of the National Democratic Congress. Mills presided over a period of economic growth and implemented policies focused on education and health. He emphasized good governance and was a proponent of the rule of law.
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