Edgar Cortright

American scientist and engineer

Edgar Cortright - American scientist and engineer
Born

July 29th, 1923
101 years ago

Died

May 4th, 2014
10 years ago — 90 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

Contributed to the development of various space programs and technologies. Played a significant role in NASA's Project Apollo, which successfully landed humans on the Moon. Also worked on the Skylab space station and the development of scientific instruments for satellite missions. Held a prominent position at the Goddard Space Flight Center, focusing on aerospace engineering and satellite technology.

Contributed to Project Apollo

Worked on Skylab space station

Developed scientific instruments for satellites

Other People Born on July 29th

Francesco Mochi

Italian sculptor known for large statues
Born
July 29th, 1580 444 years ago
Died
1654 371 years ago — 74 years old

Active during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, a prominent Italian sculptor specialized in large-scale marble sculptures. Worked extensively in Rome and received commissions for various public and private projects. Notably created the statue of Saint Paul on the façade of the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. Also contributed to the ornamentation of the Palazzo Barberini, showcasing proficiency in depicting figures with dynamic poses and intricate details. Later years involved teaching and influencing other artists in the field of sculpture.

Continue Reading

Jean-Hugues Anglade

Actor known for 'Betty Blue'
Born
July 29th, 1955 69 years ago

Born in 1955, a French actor gained prominence in the film industry through various roles. Achieved notable recognition for the role in 'Betty Blue', which received critical acclaim and garnered multiple awards. Directed and co-wrote various projects, showcasing versatility in the film sector. Collaborated with prominent directors and participated in international film festivals throughout a prolific career.

Continue Reading

Gideon Henderson

Geologist and academic specializing in climate
Born
July 29th, 1968 56 years ago

Focus on geochemistry and climate change. Served as a professor at the University of Oxford. Published extensive research on the role of the oceans in climate regulation and contributed to the understanding of past and present climate variations. Held the position of Chief Scientific Advisor to the UK Government, providing expertise in environmental science and policy.

Continue Reading

Archbishop Iakovos of America

Greek Orthodox Archbishop and leader
Born
July 29th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
April 10th, 2005 19 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the Greek Orthodox Archbishop of America from 1959 to 1996. Worked on interfaith dialogue, particularly between Orthodox Christianity and other religions. Participated in the Civil Rights Movement alongside Martin Luther King Jr., advocating for racial equality. Oversaw significant growth of the Greek Orthodox Church in the United States and contributed to the establishment of various educational and philanthropic organizations.

Continue Reading

Chang-Rae Lee

Author and academic celebrated for novels
Born
July 29th, 1965 59 years ago

An accomplished author and academic, this individual has contributed significantly to contemporary literature. The writing style merges personal and cultural narratives, often exploring themes of identity and belonging. A debut novel, 'Native Speaker', garnered the PEN/Hemingway Award and established a prominent literary voice. Subsequent works, including 'A Gesture Life' and 'The Surrendered', received critical acclaim. In addition to writing, this individual has held academic positions, fostering the next generation of writers and engaging in discussions about literature's role in society. The body of work encompasses novels, essays, and short stories, reflecting an ongoing exploration of the immigrant experience.

Continue Reading

Daniel Drew

Businessman and financier in railroads
Born
July 29th, 1797 227 years ago
Died
1879 146 years ago — 82 years old

A businessman and financier, played a significant role in the development of the American railroad industry during the 19th century. Drew established several railroads and was a key player in the consolidation of several companies. He was involved in notable market activities, including the infamous stock market maneuver in which he created the New York and Erie Railroad, helping to shape the financial landscape of the era. Drew's dealings often included controversies associated with stock manipulation.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 4th

Fedor von Bock

German field marshal, World War II leader
Born
December 3rd, 1880 144 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1945 79 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1880, a prominent German field marshal during World War II, recognized for leadership in key military campaigns. Commanded Army Group Center during Operation Barbarossa and was involved in the Battle of Moscow. Played a significant role in the Battle of Smolensk and the encirclement of Soviet forces at Kiev. Oversaw the German advance into Soviet territory, later facing challenges in supply and troop morale. After suffering setbacks, was dismissed in 1944 and remained in military service until the end of the war. Historical analysis reviews strategic decisions and military effectiveness during wartime operations.

Continue Reading

Milan Rastislav Štefánik

Slovak general and politician
Born
July 21st, 1880 144 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1919 105 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 Reading

Ellen Albertini Dow

Actress in 'The Wedding Singer'
Born
November 16th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2015 9 years ago — 101 years old

An American actress, recognized for a career that spanned several decades. Made appearances in various television shows and films, with standout performances in 'The Wedding Singer' and 'The Golden Girls'. An accomplished performer, she garnered attention for her distinctive voice and comedic timing. Continued to act well into her later years, demonstrating a passion for the craft.

Continue Reading

Connie Wisniewski

American baseball player and pitcher
Born
February 18th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1995 29 years ago — 73 years old

A professional baseball player, celebrated for contributions as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played for the Detroit Tigers from 1944 to 1947. Made appearances in several key matches, showcasing skills in pitching and contributing to team efforts during the post-war era of the sport. His career is noted for performing in a challenging period for baseball, with experiences that included participation in the minor leagues and significant matches.

Continue Reading

Helga Königsdorf

Physicist and author with research papers
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2014 10 years ago — 76 years old

Engaged in research in the field of physics, authored several papers contributing to advancements in the discipline. Focused on various aspects of theoretical physics and made noteworthy contributions to complex systems. Actively promoted science through outreach programs and public lectures. Also involved in education, helping to shape future generations of physicists.

Continue Reading

Javier Diez Canseco

Peruvian sociologist and politician
Born
March 24th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2013 11 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent sociologist and politician from Peru, contributions to social issues and political reforms in the country were notable. Active in Peruvian politics for several decades, played a significant role in the political landscape as a member of the leftist parties. Served in various capacities including a congressman and was involved in efforts to promote social justice and human rights. Engaged in academic work focused on social policy and development, influencing various sociopolitical discussions.

Continue Reading