Eric Brown
Pilot and test pilot for the UK
A prominent test pilot, achievements included extensive test flights of various aircraft types, including the British jet aircraft. Played a key role in the development of the British aircraft industry. Served in the Royal Navy and contributed significantly during World War II, flying various combat missions and later participating in the development of jet technology. After the war, took on various test pilot roles, including significant contributions to the Hawker Sea Hawk and the de Havilland Comet. Continued to advocate for aviation and participate in historical aerospace events until death.
Conducted the first jet aircraft carrier landings
Test flew the de Havilland Comet
Other People Born on January 21st
Darren Helm
Ice hockey player with Detroit Red Wings
Born
January 21st, 1987 39 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, played primarily as a center. Spent most of his career with the Detroit Red Wings in the National Hockey League (NHL). Contributed to the Red Wings' success during multiple playoff runs and was a member of the team that won the Stanley Cup in 2008. Known for speed and defensive abilities, also represented Canada internationally in various tournaments.
Continue ReadingÁngel Mena
Ecuadorian footballer and forward
Born
January 21st, 1988 38 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Began career in Ecuador and gained recognition for performances in the Ecuadorian Serie A. Transferred to clubs in Mexico, contributing to the success of teams competing in Liga MX. Also represented the Ecuador national team in various international competitions, showcasing talent on the global stage.
Continue ReadingJake Elliott
American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
January 21st, 1995 31 years ago
Played as a placekicker in the National Football League (NFL) for the Philadelphia Eagles. Achieved success during Super Bowl LII, where the team secured a victory against the New England Patriots. Overcame challenges as a rookie in the league, earning recognition for accuracy in field goal attempts. Contributed to the team's kicking game with several game-winning kicks throughout his career.
Continue ReadingShawn Rojeski
American curler and Olympian
Born
January 21st, 1972 54 years ago
A prominent figure in curling, Rojeski represented the United States in international competitions. Competed in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy, as part of the men's curling team. Achieved significant success on the national circuit, leading teams to numerous championships and representing the U.S. in World Curling Championships.
Continue ReadingGyula Mándi
Hungarian footballer and manager
Born
January 21st, 1899 127 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1969 56 years ago — 70 years old
Started career as a footballer in the early 20th century. Played as a defender for clubs including MTK Budapest. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading teams in Hungary. Had a significant role in developing football in Hungary during his managerial tenure.
Continue ReadingVanessa Hessler
Model and actress, featured in films
Born
January 21st, 1988 38 years ago
Born to an Italian father and an American mother, grew up in Rome. Entered the modeling industry at a young age, gaining recognition for work in fashion. Transitioned to acting, with significant roles in the Italian film 'I 2 soliti idioti' and the television series 'Il segreto'. Established a career in both modeling and acting, showcasing talents internationally.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
Tim Horton
Ice hockey player, co-founder of Tim Hortons
Born
January 12th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1974 51 years ago — 44 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Achieved two Stanley Cup championships with the Maple Leafs in 1962 and 1963. After retiring from hockey, co-founded the Tim Hortons restaurant chain, which became a prominent fast food franchise in Canada. Horton passed away in a car accident in 1974, but his legacy continues through the coffee and donut chain.
Continue ReadingEmperor Ninkō of Japan
Emperor of Japan during the 19th century
Born
March 16th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1846 179 years ago — 45 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1817, Ninkō presided over a period of political turmoil and transformation in Japan. This era witnessed the opening of Japan to foreign influence, marking the beginning of the end for the Tokugawa shogunate. The emperor's reign included the Boshin War, which was pivotal in the transition from feudalism to modernization in Japan. Ninkō's rule was characterized by a reluctance to embrace the changes that foreign contact brought, as the country faced internal conflicts and pressures for reform. Despite the civil strife, this period laid the groundwork for Japan's subsequent rapid modernization.
Continue ReadingClark Terry
Trumpet player and composer
Born
December 14th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent trumpet player, composer, and educator, made significant contributions to jazz music over a career spanning several decades. Played with notable bands including the Duke Ellington Orchestra and the Count Basie Orchestra. Composed multiple pieces for jazz ensembles and worked as a music educator, influencing countless students. Developed innovative trumpet techniques and contributed to the advancement of jazz pedagogy through teaching and workshops.
Continue ReadingPope Julius II
Renaissance Pope, architect of St. Peter's
Born
December 5th, 1443 582 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1513 512 years ago — 69 years old
One of the most notable popes of the Renaissance era, this figure served as the 216th pope from 1503 until 1513. A patron of the arts, he commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling and begin work on St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. His papacy is often referred to as the 'Warrior Pope' due to his military involvement in the Italian Wars, striving to reclaim territories for the Papal States. He also convened the Fifth Lateran Council to address various issues within the Church. His leadership marked a significant shift in the role of the papacy during the Renaissance, focusing on territorial expansion and cultural patronage.
Continue ReadingPope Benedict XIII
Pope and religious leader
Born
February 2nd, 1650 376 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1730 295 years ago — 80 years old
Elected as pope in 1724, led the Roman Catholic Church during a time of significant political and religious challenges. Contributed to the liturgical reforms and was involved in the establishment of the Sacred Congregation of Propaganda Fide, focusing on missionary activities. Known for his interactions with European monarchs and influence on ecclesiastical matters. His papacy was marked by efforts to strengthen church authority and response to emerging theological disputes.
Continue ReadingH. M. Darmstandler
American General in the military
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old
Served in the United States military, achieving the rank of general. Contributed to various operations during his career, reaching significant leadership positions. Participated in strategy formulation and implementation, influencing military policy. Managed troops in critical missions and training exercises, ensuring operational readiness and effectiveness.
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