Francis Gary Powers
U-2 pilot and Cold War figure
Born
August 17th, 1929
95 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1977
47 years ago — 47 years old
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
United States
Links & References
Birth on August 17, 1929, took place in Jenkins, Kentucky. A career as a U.S. Air Force pilot led to a role in the CIA's U-2 program for high-altitude reconnaissance. In 1960, an operational flight over the Soviet Union resulted in capture after the aircraft was shot down. Following a spy trial in Moscow, Powers received a ten-year sentence but was exchanged for Soviet spy Rudolph Abel in 1962. His life thereafter included media work and writing about intelligence operations. His experiences highlighted the tensions of the Cold War.
Participation in U-2 reconnaissance flights
Capture and trial in the Soviet Union
Exchange for Soviet spy Rudolph Abel
Other People Born on August 17th
David Koresh
Led the Branch Davidians, a religious sect in Waco, Texas. Advocated for his interpretations of the Bible and claimed to be the final prophet. Involved in a 51-day standoff with federal law enforcement in 1993. The standoff ended when the compound was consumed by fire, resulting in the deaths of many followers, including Koresh.
Continue ReadingDuke Pearson
A prominent figure in the jazz scene, one contributed significantly as a pianist and composer. Established a strong presence in the 1960s, recording several influential albums. Worked with notable musicians and bands, including Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. Noteworthy for blending elements of hard bop and modal jazz. Other contributions include arranging and composing for various artists, showcasing a distinctive style and creativity in the jazz genre.
Continue ReadingWilf Copping
Played as a defender and had a significant career in football. Started with the local club and joined Arsenal, where contributions helped the team secure league titles. Later, played for other clubs throughout the career, including an impactful tenure at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Represented the national team, showcasing skills on an international level during a competitive era in English football.
Continue ReadingLuther Allison
Born in 1939, a prominent figure in blues music, recognized for a powerful voice and captivating guitar skills. Began career in Chicago during the 1960s, contributing to the rise of the city's vibrant blues scene. Released notable albums including 'Live in Chicago' and 'Soul Fixin' Man.' Famous for energetic live performances and a unique blend of traditional and contemporary blues. The musician also experienced a significant resurgence in popularity in the 1990s, earning accolades and a devoted following.
Continue ReadingHerta Müller
Born in Romania in 1953, a poet and prose writer became renowned for works that explore the themes of oppression, exile, and the experience of living under a totalitarian regime. After facing censorship and persecution in Romania, migration to Germany occurred in 1987. Major literary contributions include 'The Land of Green Plums' and 'The Appointment.' The Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded in 2009, recognizing significant contributions to literature that highlight the human experience amidst political upheaval.
Continue ReadingJules Bernard Luys
Contributed significantly to the field of neurology, focusing on brain anatomy and pathology. Authored multiple works on neurological conditions and their treatment. Introduced the term 'brainstem' and emphasized the importance of studying the brain's various structures. Conducted detailed research on Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders, influencing future studies in the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 1st
Valyantsin Byalkevich
Born in 1973, a footballer and manager from Belarus. Played as a midfielder primarily for FC BATE Borisov, contributing to the team's successes in the Belarusian Premier League. Served as captain during significant championship seasons. Transitioned to management roles after retiring from playing, taking charge of various teams in Belarusian football, continuing to influence the sport in the region.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Santi
An artist active during the early Italian Renaissance, contributed to the development of the art style that influenced the next generation. Gained recognition for creating religious and mythological themes in painting. Established a workshop that helped foster talent, including that of his son, who would become a leading figure of the Renaissance. Also authored a treatise on painting, which discussed artistic technique and theory.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Valla
An influential figure in the Italian Renaissance, contributed to humanist thought and textual criticism. Focused on the study of classical texts, particularly emphasized the importance of philology and historical context. Best known for the work 'De Voluptate', which discussed pleasure and ethics, and for exposing the fraudulent nature of the Donation of Constantine. Engaged in scholarly debates about language, ethics, and governance, impacting the intellectual landscape of the era. Served as a teacher and involved in public discourse during the humanist movement. His critical approach laid groundwork for future scholars in textual analysis and historical documentation.
Continue ReadingJohn Riley Banister
A prominent figure in the Old West, Banister worked as a cowboy before transitioning to law enforcement. As a police officer, he served in various capacities including as a deputy sheriff, contributing to the establishment of order in the rapidly developing western territories. His career spanned several significant years during which he witnessed and participated in the cultural shifts of the American frontier.
Continue ReadingGiovanni da Pian del Carpine
An Italian archbishop and explorer traveled to the Mongol Empire in the 13th century. Undertook a significant journey to the east, becoming one of the first Europeans to document the geography and culture of the Mongol territories. Served as a papal envoy and completed a mission from Pope Innocent IV to the Mongols, resulting in a detailed account of his travels. Authored 'Historia Mongolorum,' which provided vital information about the Mongol Empire and its practices.
Continue ReadingJean Behra
Renowned as a skilled race car driver in the 1950s, participation in the Formula One World Championship marked significant achievements. Competed for several notable teams including Maserati and Ferrari. Achieved numerous podium finishes, showcasing talent in endurance racing. Contributed to the sport through both racing and technical advancements during a transformative era.
Continue Reading