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
Hans Erni
Swiss painter and illustrator
Born
February 21st, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 106 years old
Born in Switzerland in 1909, this painter, sculptor, and illustrator developed a unique artistic style that encompassed a variety of mediums. His work often reflected social and political themes, as well as explorations of human existence and nature. Over a career spanning several decades, numerous exhibitions showcased the evolution of his artistry, with a significant contribution to Swiss culture.
Continue ReadingPeter III of Russia
Emperor of Russia, reigned briefly in 1762
Born
February 21st, 1728 297 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1762 263 years ago — 34 years old
Became Emperor of Russia in January 1762 after the assassination of Empress Elizabeth. His reign lasted only six months, concluding with his overthrow in a coup d'état led by his wife, Catherine the Great. Peter III's policies favored Prussia, which was unpopular among Russian nobles. Attempts to reform the military and reduce serfdom faced resistance. After his abdication, he was imprisoned and later died under mysterious circumstances. His brief reign marked a significant transition in Russian leadership.
Continue ReadingHarald V of Norway
King of Norway since 1991
Born
February 21st, 1937 88 years ago
Assumed the throne of Norway in 1991 following the death of father, King Olav V. Prior to becoming king, served in the Norwegian military and participated in various public engagements. Actively supported cultural and humanitarian efforts, and represented Norway in various international forums. Played a significant role in modernizing the Norwegian monarchy.
Continue ReadingJi So-yun
South Korean footballer, Chelsea FC midfielder
Born
February 21st, 1991 34 years ago
Played for the South Korean national team and Chelsea FC as a midfielder. Achieved significant success in both domestic and international competitions. Competed in multiple FIFA Women's World Cups, showcasing talent on a global stage. Contributed to Chelsea FC's victories, including league titles and cup competitions during tenure.
Continue ReadingTony Martin
Historian and academic focusing on African studies
Born
February 21st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
Born in Trinidad and Tobago and later based in the United States, significant contributions to African studies and Caribbean history were made. Held academic positions at various institutions and authored numerous works. A prominent figure in promoting awareness of African history and culture. Advocated for the inclusion of African and Caribbean perspectives in education. Developed a notable curriculum emphasizing the importance of these histories.
Continue ReadingAlan Trammell
Baseball player and manager for the Tigers
Born
February 21st, 1958 67 years ago
Played shortstop for the Detroit Tigers from 1977 to 1996, contributing to the team during its 1984 World Series championship. Transitioned to coaching and managing, leading the Tigers for part of the 2014 season. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2018, recognizing a successful career in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 5th
Verner Panton
Danish interior designer and trendsetter
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1998 27 years ago — 72 years old
An influential Danish interior designer, contributed significantly to the fields of industrial design and furniture design. Developed innovative and colorful designs that embraced modernism, using new materials and techniques. His work often featured bold colors, curvy forms, and a strong visual impact. Designed the iconic Panton Chair, which became a symbol of contemporary furniture design. Created immersive and experimental environments for exhibitions, showcasing a visionary approach to spatial design.
Continue ReadingMara Neusel
Mathematician and author in Germany
Born
1964 62 years ago
Died
September 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 50 years old
Accomplished in the field of mathematics, this individual contributed significantly to algebra and topology. They held academic positions, influencing the study and understanding of these areas. The authorship included numerous papers and textbooks aimed at both students and researchers, facilitating engagement with complex mathematical concepts. Teaching was an integral part of the career, shaping the next generation of mathematicians through dedicated instruction and mentorship.
Continue ReadingIgnacij Klemenčič
Physicist and academic specializing in optics
Born
1853 173 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1901 124 years ago — 48 years old
Was a Slovenian physicist and academic with a focus on optics. Contributed to the field of physics through research and academic engagement. Held a prominent position within the scientific community in Slovenia and participated in the advancement of 19th-century physics education.
Continue ReadingEugen Schiffer
German lawyer and Vice-Chancellor
Born
February 14th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1954 71 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1860, a prominent figure in German law and politics, held the position of Vice-Chancellor of Germany. Contributed to significant legislative reforms and represented the interests of various political factions during a turbulent time in German history. Undertook a legal career that included advocating for civil rights and modernizing the legal framework in the country.
Continue ReadingHugh Foot
English diplomat and academic leader
Born
1907 119 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1990 35 years ago — 83 years old
Baron Caradon served as a British diplomat and academic. Significant contributions occurred during tenure as the UK representative at the United Nations. Played a crucial role in decolonization discussions for several African countries. Additionally, held various academic positions including Vice Chancellor of the University of the West Indies, focusing on higher education and international relations.
Continue ReadingRichard C. Tolman
Physicist and chemist, contributed to thermodynamics
Born
March 4th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1948 77 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics and chemistry, particularly in thermodynamics and physical chemistry. Developed the concept of the Tolman length, which relates to the concept of surface tension in fluids. Worked on statistical mechanics and the theory of relativity, and made notable contributions to the understanding of the kinetic theory of gases. Served as a professor at the California Institute of Technology and as an advisor to the Manhattan Project during World War II.
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