Dan Borislow
Businessman and telecommunications inventor
Born in the United States, this businessman and inventor founded MagicJack, a device that enables voice over IP communication. Launched in 2007, MagicJack gained significant popularity for its cost-effective alternative to traditional phone services. The device allowed users to make unlimited calls to the U.S. and Canada from any internet-connected location. With a strong background in telecommunications, various ventures were undertaken in technology services before achieving notable success with MagicJack. The invention contributed to changes in how consumers approached communication and phone service options.
Founded MagicJack, a VoIP device
Introduced unlimited calling service
Other People Born on September 21st
Wale
American rapper and music artist
Born
September 21st, 1984 41 years ago
An influential figure in hip-hop, this artist gained prominence with the release of the mixtape 'Mixtape About Nothing' in 2008. The project drew inspiration from the television show 'Seinfeld' and showcased a blend of storytelling and lyrical prowess. Following this, the debut studio album 'Attention Deficit' released in 2009, featured hits like 'Chillin' and 'World Tour.' The artist achieved commercial success with subsequent albums, particularly 'Ambition' in 2011, which included the hit single 'Lotus Flower Bomb.' Collaborations with prominent artists further established a notable presence in the music industry, including tracks with Rick Ross and J. Cole. An exploration of personal and societal themes defined the artist's work, solidifying a unique place in contemporary hip-hop.
Continue ReadingHerman Fowlkes
American trumpet player and educator
Born
September 21st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
1993 33 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent trumpet player and educator, contributed significantly to jazz music through performances and teaching. Fowlkes played with notable musicians and ensembles, including the Duke Ellington Orchestra. His educational efforts included mentoring young musicians and developing music programs in schools. Through a combination of performance and education, Fowlkes enhanced the appreciation and understanding of jazz.
Continue ReadingDon Preston
Keyboard player in The Mothers of Invention
Born
September 21st, 1932 93 years ago
A keyboard player and composer, contributed significantly to the avant-garde music scene. Joined The Mothers of Invention, a band formed by Frank Zappa, and made contributions to albums such as 'Freak Out!' and 'We're Only in It for the Money'. Participated in various musical projects, showcasing skills in electronic music and improvisation. Collaborated with numerous artists and participated in live performances across different genres, influencing contemporaries and future musicians.
Continue ReadingBertha of Savoy
Holy Roman Empress and consort
Born
September 21st, 1051 974 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1087 938 years ago — 36 years old
Born into the House of Savoy, this individual became the Holy Roman Empress through marriage. She served as the consort to Emperor Henry IV and played a significant role in the imperial court. Her influence was evident during a tumultuous period marked by the Investiture Controversy, a struggle between the church and the empire. Her offspring included several notable figures, ensuring her legacy within the royal lineage. Bertha's marriage solidified important political alliances in 11th-century Europe, impacting the governance of the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingH. G. Wells
Science Fiction Writer, The Time Machine
Born
September 21st, 1866 159 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1946 79 years ago — 79 years old
An English novelist, historian, and critic contributed significantly to the science fiction genre. Published the seminal works 'The Time Machine' and 'The War of the Worlds', which explored themes of technology, future societies, and alien invasions. Engaged with social and political issues through literature, reflecting on the implications of scientific advancements. Additionally wrote historical works and essays commenting on societal trends and philosophies.
Continue ReadingFereydoon Moshiri
Iranian poet and literary critic
Born
September 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 74 years old
A significant figure in Persian literature, contributed a rich body of poetry that resonates with themes of love, nature, and social issues. Worked as a literary critic and journalist, promoting modern Persian poetry. His poems often reflected personal emotion while engaging with broader cultural and political contexts. Due to innovative use of imagery and language, his works remain popular and are frequently studied in Iranian literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 21st
Robert 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 ReadingTony Bennett
American singer and painter
Born
August 3rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2023 2 years ago — 96 years old
An American singer and painter gained widespread acclaim for a career spanning several decades, cementing a legacy as one of the greats in the music industry. Renowned for a smooth vocal style and a traditional pop repertoire, notably achieved commercial success with the song 'I Left My Heart in San Francisco.' Collaborated with numerous artists, blending jazz, pop, and standards. Launched a successful career in the 1940s, earning recognition during the 1950s and 1960s. Continued to perform well into the 21st century, releasing albums and maintaining a passionate fan base.
Continue ReadingMako Iwamatsu
Japanese actor in 'The Sand Pebbles'
Born
December 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2006 19 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1933, this actor had a prominent career in film and television. Early work included performances in Japanese cinema before moving to the United States. Notably starred in the film 'The Sand Pebbles' alongside Steve McQueen, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Also appeared in popular TV series such as 'Hawaii Five-O' and 'M*A*S*H'. His contribution to the arts extended to voice work in animated features, lending his voice to characters in 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' and 'The Last Unicorn'.
Continue ReadingRalph Craig
American sprinter and Olympic sailor
Born
June 21st, 1889 137 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1972 53 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1889, this individual excelled as a sprinter and sailor. Competing in the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, secured two gold medals in the 100 meters and 200 meters. Achieved significant success in sailing as well, competing in various national and international events. Contributed to the growth of athletics and sailing during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingFiammetta Wilson
English astronomer with comet research
Born
July 19th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1920 105 years ago — 56 years old
Born in England in 1864, notable contributions in astronomy centered on study and classification of comets. Participated in various astronomical societies and published research articles. Focused on the orbits of comets and their physical properties, contributing to the understanding of these celestial objects during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Engaged actively in promoting women’s participation in science, advocating for women's education in astronomy and related fields.
Continue ReadingLee Miller
American photographer and model
Born
April 23rd, 1907 119 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.
Continue Reading