Douglas Bader
World War II Fighter Pilot
Served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II. After losing both legs in a flying accident, continued to fly operational missions. Escaped from a German POW camp and returned to service. Bader became a prominent figure in British aviation and a symbol of resilience.
Served in the Battle of Britain
Achieved the rank of Group Captain
Escaped from a POW camp
Other People Born on February 21st
Riyad Mahrez
Footballer, Premier League Champion
Born
February 21st, 1991 34 years ago
Born in Algeria, a professional footballer played as a winger. Played for Leicester City during the 2015-2016 season, contributing to the team's remarkable victory in the Premier League, marking the first title in the club's history. Later transferred to Manchester City, where he continued to achieve success, winning multiple domestic titles. Represented the Algeria national team, leading it to victory in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. His playing style is characterized by skillful dribbling and precise finishing.
Continue ReadingMélanie Laurent
French actress and filmmaker
Born
February 21st, 1983 42 years ago
Born in France in 1983, this actress gained recognition for roles in film and directing. Gained international fame through performance in 'Inglourious Basterds' directed by Quentin Tarantino. Additionally directed films such as 'Les Adoptés' and 'Tomorrow'. Accomplished in both acting and directing, showcasing talent across multiple platforms.
Continue ReadingPhilipp V
Count of Hanau-Lichtenberg
Born
February 21st, 1541 484 years ago
Died
1599 426 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1541, served as Count of Hanau-Lichtenberg from 1560 until death in 1580. Governed the territory during the late Renaissance period and managed internal affairs, economic development, and territorial disputes. Established alliances that strengthened regional autonomy. Inherited and expanded the family estate, promoting stability and growth in the area.
Continue ReadingPhil Jones
English footballer with Manchester United
Born
February 21st, 1992 33 years ago
A professional footballer, primarily played as a defender. Developed through the youth ranks at Blackburn Rovers, gained recognition for contributions to the senior team. Transferred to Manchester United in 2011, where played a vital role in the squad. Achieved success in various competitions during tenure at the club.
Continue ReadingFranklin Gutiérrez
Venezuelan baseball outfielder
Born
February 21st, 1983 42 years ago
Professional baseball player from Venezuela played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball (MLB). Made his MLB debut in 2005 and played for several teams, including the Seattle Mariners and Cleveland Indians. Renowned for excellent defensive skills and contributions to team success. Held a strong reputation for his speed and agility on the field.
Continue ReadingScott Kelly
American astronaut, ISS commander
Born
February 21st, 1964 61 years ago
Served as a NASA astronaut with notable missions aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Completed a record-setting 340 consecutive days in space during the One-Year Mission, which provided valuable research on the effects of long-duration spaceflight on the human body. Worked on multiple space shuttle missions and contributed to the assembly and maintenance of the ISS. Is a retired U.S. Navy captain and has flown on four spaceflights, accumulating over 520 total days in space throughout an illustrious career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 5th
Gert Fröbe
German actor known for 'Goldfinger'
Born
February 25th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1988 37 years ago — 75 years old
Gert Fröbe was a German actor who gained international recognition for his performances in film and television. His career began in Germany in the 1940s, and he quickly established himself as a prominent figure in European cinema. Fröbe's breakout role came with his portrayal of Auric Goldfinger in the James Bond film 'Goldfinger' (1964), which solidified his status as a leading actor. He also appeared in various German productions, showcasing his versatility across different genres. His work not only contributed to his fame but also highlighted the German film industry during the post-war era.
Continue ReadingAlan Clark
English musician and songwriter
Born
March 5th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1999 26 years ago — 47 years old
An English musician and songwriter, recognized for contributions to rock music. Played keyboards for the band Dire Straits from 1980 to 1988 and contributed to the band's critical and commercial success. The band released several albums, including the successful 'Brothers in Arms,' which won two Grammy Awards. Also involved in solo projects and other collaborative efforts throughout the career.
Continue ReadingPhilip Baxter
Chemical engineer and university chancellor
Born
May 7th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1989 36 years ago — 84 years old
A chemical engineer who contributed significantly to the field of science and education. Received a degree in engineering from the University of Sydney and later completed a PhD at the University of Manchester. Served as the professor of chemical engineering at the University of New South Wales. Played a key role in the establishment of the Australian Atomic Energy Commission and became its chairman. Contributed to the development of nuclear energy in Australia and advocated for its peaceful use. Became the vice-chancellor of the University of New South Wales, where significant advancements in research and education were achieved during tenure.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Toledo
Mexican painter and graphic artist
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
September 5th, 2019 6 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in contemporary Mexican art, contributions spanned painting, sculpture, and graphic arts. Toledo's style combined elements of indigenous culture, surrealism, and nature. His works often depicted the Oaxaca region, showcasing local flora and fauna. Toledo's dedication to preserving cultural heritage led to the establishment of the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca, which housed many of his creations. In addition to his artistic pursuits, advocacy for environmental causes marked his career.
Continue ReadingIan Dick
Australian cricketer and field hockey player
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
September 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
A cricketer and field hockey player from Australia, contributed to both sports at a competitive level. In cricket, played for the New South Wales team and participated in numerous domestic tournaments. Recognized for skills in field hockey, representing Australia in various international fixtures. Achieved a prominent role in Australian sport, bridging two athletic disciplines.
Continue ReadingNicolaas Bloembergen
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 11th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 5th, 2017 8 years ago — 97 years old
Born in the Netherlands, this physicist significantly contributed to the field of laser technology and nonlinear optics. After moving to the United States, held academic positions at various institutions, including Harvard University. In 1981, received the Nobel Prize in Physics for contributions to the development of laser spectroscopy. Played a key role in pioneering methods for analyzing the behavior of molecules using laser light.
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