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
Donald A. Glaser
Physicist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
September 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2013 13 years ago — 86 years old
Contributions to the field of physics are significant, particularly in the development of the bubble chamber. This invention changed the way subatomic particles were observed and studied. Glaser received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1960 for this work, which advanced experimental techniques in particle physics. Later, he explored biophysics and neurosciences, further diversifying his research pursuits. His academic career included a position at the University of California, Berkeley, where he influenced numerous students and researchers.
Continue ReadingReinhard Marx
German cardinal and influential church leader
Born
September 21st, 1953 72 years ago
Ordained as a priest in 1977, held numerous positions within the Catholic Church in Germany, leading to appointment as Archbishop of Munich and Freising in 2007. Created a cardinal in 2010 by Pope Benedict XVI. Actively engaged in discussions about church reform and social issues.
Continue ReadingRobert Lebel
Canadian businessman and politician
Born
September 21st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 93 years old
Contributed to various political and business ventures in Canada. Played a significant role in local governance, including serving in public office. Engaged in economic development initiatives that fostered business growth in the region. Held leadership positions within industry organizations, advocating for the interests of the business community.
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 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 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on July 21st
Ruth St. Denis
Dancer and educator, Denishawn School founder
Born
January 20th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1968 58 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 ReadingAlan Shepard
Astronaut, Apollo 14 Commander
Born
November 18th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1998 28 years ago — 74 years old
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.
Continue ReadingFrançois Sébastien Charles Joseph de Croix
Austrian Field Marshal, Count of Clerfayt
Born
October 14th, 1733 292 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1798 228 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1733, a prominent Austrian field marshal served in the Habsburg military during the Seven Years' War and the War of the Austrian Succession. Recognized for effective leadership and tactical skill in numerous battles, particularly in the campaigns against Prussia and France. Participated in several key confrontations, displaying strategic acumen that earned respect among contemporaries. Elevated to the rank of field marshal and awarded the title of Count of Clerfayt, positioned as a significant military figure in 18th-century European conflicts, ultimately contributing to the Habsburg Monarchy's military legacy.
Continue ReadingLee Miller
American photographer and model
Born
April 23rd, 1907 119 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1977 49 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 ReadingJerry Goldsmith
Film composer and conductor
Born
February 10th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2004 22 years ago — 75 years old
Highly regarded as a film composer and conductor, major works include scores for iconic films. Contributions span genres including horror, science fiction, and drama. Collaborative efforts involved directing talents like Alfred Hitchcock and Roman Polanski. Active from the late 1940s until passing in 2004, left a legacy of innovative musical scores that enhanced cinematic experiences.
Continue ReadingRalph Houk
Baseball manager and player, Yankees
Born
August 9th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2010 16 years ago — 90 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball and managed the New York Yankees. Played from 1947 to 1953. Managed the Yankees from 1961 to 1963, leading the team to a World Series championship in 1961. Also managed the Detroit Tigers and the Boston Red Sox during a career spanning several decades.
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