Ferenc Szisz
Racing driver; first Grand Prix winner
A Hungarian-French racing driver, made significant contributions to early motorsport. Achieved the first victory in the Grand Prix motor racing series, winning the 1906 French Grand Prix driving a Renault. Competed in various racing events, establishing a reputation in the growing sport of automobile racing. Participated in the development of racing vehicles, contributing to advancements in automotive technology. Continued to influence the sport until retirement, leaving a legacy in motorsports history.
Won the first French Grand Prix in 1906
Raced for Renault
Competed in early 20th-century motorsport events
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Dale Chihuly
Glass Sculptor and Installation Artist
Born
September 20th, 1941 84 years ago
An American sculptor and painter. Pioneered the studio glass movement, blending art with the craft of glassblowing. Founded Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle, showcasing large-scale glass installations. Worked extensively with teams of artisans to create vibrant, complex glass sculptures. Taught at various institutions, influencing future generations of artists.
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Mathematician and computer scientist
Born
September 20th, 1956 69 years ago
A mathematician and computer scientist with significant contributions to various fields including theoretical computer science and network science. Held positions such as Vice President at Microsoft Research. Focused on the intersection of mathematics and computer science, influencing both areas through research and leadership.
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Actress and writer, starred in 'Rookie Blue'
Born
September 20th, 1972 53 years ago
An actress and writer, contributed to television and film. Best recognized for roles in series such as 'Rookie Blue' and 'The Hook'. Worked as a writer and producer on various projects, reflecting a strong engagement with the entertainment industry. Also featured in films including 'The Love Guru' and 'The Big Year'. Throughout the career, participated in numerous productions highlighting versatility and skill in acting.
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Italian rugby player and international competitor
Born
September 20th, 1987 38 years ago
Born in 1987, played rugby union primarily as a scrum-half. Represented Italy at the international level, earning several caps. Competed in the Six Nations Championship, showcasing skills and contributing to the team's efforts in this prestigious tournament. Achieved success in domestic leagues with club teams.
Continue ReadingLaura Dekker
Sailor and youngest solo circumnavigator
Born
September 20th, 1995 30 years ago
Born in 1995, a Dutch sailor gained international attention for completing a solo circumnavigation of the globe. Starting her journey in 2010 at the age of 14, the expedition lasted over a year and covered more than 27,000 nautical miles. The journey was marked by challenges including navigating treacherous waters and overcoming legal battles regarding her age. The sailor documented her experiences and adventures throughout the trip, highlighting the joys and difficulties of long-distance sailing. Upon completion, she became the youngest person to sail solo around the world, a record recognized by the international sailing community.
Continue ReadingAaron Burkart
German race car driver
Born
September 20th, 1982 43 years ago
Achieved success in motorsport primarily in the German touring car scene. Competed in the DTM series and made significant contributions to teams such as Audi and BMW. Secured multiple podium finishes during his career and continued to be involved in various aspects of racing development and team management after retiring from competitive driving.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 21st
William Weston
Australian politician, 3rd Premier of Tasmania
Born
November 28th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1888 137 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 3rd Premier of Tasmania from 1887 until 1888. Political career included leadership roles in the Tasmanian Legislative Council. Played a significant role in shaping early Tasmanian politics and governance.
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Finnish pilot and air force ace
Born
February 21st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Finland, a celebrated soldier and pilot gained prominence during World War II. As a fighter pilot in the Finnish Air Force, he achieved exceptional success in aerial combat. Juutilainen participated in the Continuation War against the Soviet Union and earned the title of the highest-scoring ace in Finnish history. His combat career spanned several years, during which he flew numerous missions and demonstrated remarkable skill and bravery. Post-war, he continued to contribute to aviation and served in various military roles.
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.
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English actor known for 'Inspector Morse'
Born
January 3rd, 1942 84 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2002 23 years ago — 60 years old
An English actor and producer gained prominence through significant roles in British television and film. Achieved widespread recognition for portrayal of Detective Chief Inspector Morse in the critically acclaimed series 'Inspector Morse', which aired from 1987 to 2000. Also starred in the television series 'Kavanagh QC', where he played the titular character, a barrister who dealt with intricate legal cases. Contributed to the theatrical stage, performing in various productions throughout his career. Thaw's performances were characterized by a strong presence and a deep understanding of his characters, leading to a lasting legacy in British entertainment.
Continue ReadingBaruch Spinoza
Dutch philosopher of ethics and understanding
Born
November 24th, 1632 393 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1677 348 years ago — 44 years old
A prominent 17th-century philosopher and scholar, contributed significantly to the fields of metaphysics, ethics, and political philosophy. Spinoza advocated for rationalism and laid the groundwork for the modern understanding of liberty and democracy. His seminal works include 'Ethics', in which he formulated his views on the nature of reality, God, and human freedom, and 'Theological-Political Treatise', which examined the relationship between religion and state. His ideas about the separation of church and state and the nature of truth challenged contemporary beliefs and political structures.
Continue ReadingHéctor Maestri
Baseball player, played for multiple teams
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
A Cuban-American baseball player played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Making his debut in 1961, played for teams including the Washington Senators and the Kansas City Athletics. The player had a career marked by appearances in an era of competitive baseball.
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