Fergus McMaster

Founder of Qantas Airlines

Fergus McMaster - Founder of Qantas Airlines
Born

May 3rd, 1879
146 years ago

Died

August 8th, 1950
74 years ago — 71 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Australia

Links & References

An Australian businessman established an aviation company that evolved into one of the world's largest airlines. Significant contributions to the airline industry included pioneering air travel services in Australia. The company became known for its safety and reliability, facilitating international travel and delivering essential cargo services. The impact on the Australian economy and connectivity was substantial, transforming travel within the region. Active in aviation until the mid-20th century, the legacy includes advancements in commercial aviation.

Founded Qantas Airlines in 1920

Pioneered commercial air travel in Australia

Other People Born on May 3rd

Angela Bofill

Singer-songwriter with R&B hits
Born
May 3rd, 1954 71 years ago
Died
June 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1954, a singer-songwriter achieved popularity in the late 1970s and 1980s. Music style encompasses R&B, jazz, and pop influences. Released several successful albums, including the critically acclaimed 'Angel of the Night.' Gained prominence with hits like 'This Time I'll Be Sweeter' and 'I Try.' Recognized for a powerful vocal style and emotive delivery, contributing to the soulful sound of the era. Continues to perform and record music.

Continue Reading

Henri Pitot

Engineer, inventor of the Pitot tube
Born
May 3rd, 1695 330 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1771 253 years ago — 76 years old

An engineer from France, contributed significantly to fluid mechanics. Invented the Pitot tube, an instrument used to measure fluid flow velocity. This invention has been utilized in various fields, including aerodynamics and hydrodynamics. The design and principles established by the invention are foundational in modern fluid measurement techniques.

Continue Reading

Betty Comden

Screenwriter and librettist for Broadway
Born
May 3rd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2006 18 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent screenwriter and librettist contributed significantly to American musical theater and film. Collaborated closely with writing partner Adolph Green, crafting scripts and lyrics for numerous successful productions. Co-created iconic musicals including "On the Town" and "Bells Are Ringing," both of which received critical acclaim. Worked in films, notably contributing to the screenplay of "Singin' in the Rain," widely regarded as one of the greatest musicals in cinema history. Her contributions to Broadway and Hollywood earned numerous accolades throughout a prolific career.

Continue Reading

Ivan Bukavshin

Russian chess player and grandmaster
Born
May 3rd, 1995 30 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 21 years old

A grandmaster in chess, achieved an impressive ranking in the chess world. Compiled numerous tournament victories, including the 2014 World Youth Chess Championship, where secured a prominent position. Competed in various international tournaments, reflecting a high level of skill and strategic understanding. Participated in multiple European and national championships throughout the competitive chess landscape.

Continue Reading

Kiro Gligorov

Macedonian politician, 1st President
Born
May 3rd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old

Served as the first President of the Republic of Macedonia from 1991 to 1999. Played a key role in the country's independence from Yugoslavia and helped stabilize the nation during its early years. After surviving an assassination attempt in 1995, continued to lead with a focus on political stability and economic development. Gligorov's tenure was marked by efforts to establish democratic institutions and promote a multi-ethnic society in the newly independent state.

Continue Reading

Florian Leopold Gassmann

Czech composer and music theorist.
Born
May 3rd, 1729 296 years ago
Died
1774 251 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1729, this composer made significant contributions to the opera and symphonic music of the Classical era. He held various positions, including court composer in Vienna. His operas were performed in various cities across Europe, showcasing his ability to blend comedic and serious elements. Gassmann’s work in music theory also helped shape the musical landscape of his time. He died in 1774, leaving behind a legacy that influenced his contemporaries and successors.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 8th

Stjepan Radić

Croatian politician and lawyer
Born
June 11th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1928 96 years ago — 57 years old

A Croatian politician and lawyer actively participated in the political landscape of Croatia during the early 20th century. Radić was instrumental in advocating for the rights of Croatian peasants and their representation in government. He founded the Croatian Peasant Party in 1904, aiming to address agricultural issues and social inequalities. Radić became a significant figure in Croatian politics through his opposition to the Austro-Hungarian monarchy and later, his resistance against the unification of Croatia with Serbia. His political career included serving in the National Assembly and pursuing policies that sought to enhance Croatian autonomy within the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes. Radić's commitment to his principles, despite facing political adversity and ultimately being assassinated, left a notable mark on the Croatian nationalist movement.

Continue Reading

Olivia Newton-John

Singer-songwriter and actress, Grease star
Born
September 26th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2022 2 years ago — 73 years old

Born in England and raised in Australia, this singer-songwriter and actress rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s. Musical career includes several hit albums and singles, with a blend of pop and country sounds. The role in the film 'Grease' solidified status as a cultural icon, particularly for the song 'Hopelessly Devoted to You.' Advocacy for health and wellness emerged later in life, with significant contributions to cancer research and awareness following personal diagnosis.

Continue Reading

Henry of Castile the Senator

Spanish nobleman and political figure
Born
1230 795 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1303 721 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a prominent nobleman in the Kingdom of Castile during the late 13th century. Played a significant role in the political landscape of the region, contributing to the governance and administrative functions of the nobility. Engaged in various political matters that influenced the direction of Castilian politics of the time. His legacy includes involvement in legislative matters and the defense of noble rights within the kingdom.

Continue Reading

Sean Price

American rapper with Heltah Skeltah
Born
1972 53 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2015 9 years ago — 43 years old

A prominent figure in hip hop, contributed to the genre through collaborative projects and solo efforts. Gained recognition as a member of the duo Heltah Skeltah, part of the Boot Camp Clik collective. Released acclaimed solo albums, including 'Monkey Barz' and 'Mic Tyson'. Celebrated for a distinctive, raw lyrical style that resonated with fans and fellow artists alike, and earned a dedicated following.

Continue Reading

Gene Mauch

Baseball manager with over 1,000 victories
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2005 19 years ago — 80 years old

Managed multiple Major League Baseball teams, achieving significant success primarily with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Montreal Expos. Led the Phillies to their first postseason appearance in 1964. Had a managerial record that included over 1,000 wins. Played a pivotal role in developing young players and establishing a winning culture within the teams he managed. Served as manager for numerous teams throughout his career, including the California Angels and the Minnesota Twins.

Continue Reading

Alexander William Doniphan

American lawyer and military colonel
Born
July 9th, 1808 216 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1887 137 years ago — 79 years old

A lawyer and military officer, led the 1st Missouri Volunteer Cavalry Regiment during the Mexican-American War. Commanded the successful expedition to Santa Fe and captured the city of Chihuahua. Actively participated in the legal and political landscapes of Missouri, influencing various legislative matters. Continued practicing law after the war and engaged in public service.

Continue Reading