Gabriel Voisin

Pilot and engineer; aviation pioneer

Gabriel Voisin - Pilot and engineer; aviation pioneer
Born

February 5th, 1880
145 years ago

Died

December 25th, 1973
51 years ago — 93 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

France

Links & References

A French pilot and engineer, Voisin significantly advanced early aviation technology in the early 20th century. He co-founded the first commercial aircraft manufacturing company in 1906, focusing on developing heavier-than-air flying machines. Voisin designed and built several notable aircraft, including the Voisin III, which became the first bomber aircraft used in warfare during World War I. His innovations in aerodynamics and aircraft design laid the groundwork for future developments in the aviation field. Voisin's contributions were pivotal to the establishment of France as a leader in early aviation.

Co-founded the first commercial aircraft company

Designed the Voisin III bomber aircraft

Other People Born on February 5th

Mary L. Cleave

American engineer and NASA astronaut
Born
February 5th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 76 years old

An engineer and astronaut participated in two Space Shuttle missions, STS-61-B in 1985 and STS-30 in 1989. These missions contributed to satellite deployment and the launch of important scientific instruments. In her engineering career, worked at NASA, focusing on environmental engineering and spacecraft design, and held various positions, including serving as a Deputy Director for the Earth Science Division. Cleave's work has been influential in both aerospace engineering and environmental protection.

Continue Reading

Craig Morton

American Football Quarterback
Born
February 5th, 1943 82 years ago

Born in 1943, a prominent figure in American football, served as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Dallas Cowboys and the Denver Broncos. Played a crucial role in leading the Cowboys to Super Bowl V and the Broncos to Super Bowl XII. Transitioned to a successful career as a sportscaster after retirement from professional play.

Continue Reading

Michael Maguire

Rugby league coach and player
Born
February 5th, 1974 51 years ago

Played rugby league professionally as a hooker, primarily for the Raiders and the Rabbitohs in Australia. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, taking on roles in various clubs. Achieved notable success with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, leading the team to a premiership title in 2014. Also served as a coach for the New Zealand national team, guiding them to a Four Nations title in 2014. His career includes significant contributions both as a player and a coach in the rugby league.

Continue Reading

Johan Ludvig Runeberg

Finnish poet and hymn-writer
Born
February 5th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1877 148 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in Finnish literature, this individual contributed significantly to the development of the Finnish language through poetry. Works include the national epic 'The Tales of Ensign Stål', which illustrated Finnish history and culture. This person also wrote the lyrics to the Finnish national anthem, 'Maamme', originally penned in Swedish. His poetry often depicted the life and struggles of the Finnish people during the 19th century, highlighting themes of national identity and folklore.

Continue Reading

Trijntje Oosterhuis

Dutch singer-songwriter, 'Together Again'
Born
February 5th, 1973 52 years ago

Born in 1973, a prominent Dutch singer-songwriter achieved recognition through jazz and pop music. Released several successful albums, contributing to the music scene in the Netherlands. Collaborated with various artists, showcasing versatility across genres. Gained acclaim for both solo performances and contributions to group projects, including notable appearances in festivals and televised competitions. Received multiple awards, including the Edison Award for her musical contributions, further establishing a robust presence in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Alex Harvey

Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 5th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1982 43 years ago — 46 years old

Originated from Scotland, this singer-songwriter became a prominent figure in the music scene during the 1970s. His style mixed rock, glam, and theatrical performances, which garnered a dedicated following. Famous for leading the band The Sensational Alex Harvey Band, he released several albums that showcased a blend of rock and storytelling. Best known for the hit single 'Boston Tea Party,' his concerts were characterized by energetic performances and elaborate stage antics, contributing to his reputation in British rock music.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 25th

Anatoli Boukreev

Mountaineer and high-altitude climber
Born
January 16th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1997 27 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1958, a prominent figure in high-altitude climbing, achieved significant milestones in the mountaineering community. Climbed peaks in the Himalayas and the Andes, and played a vital role in rescue operations on K2 and during the 1996 Everest disaster. Authored several climbing guides and contributed to the understanding of high-altitude challenges and techniques. His expeditions often focused on unassisted climbs, emphasizing safety and the importance of acclimatization.

Continue Reading

Des Barrick

English cricketer and Wisden Cricketer awardee
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2007 17 years ago — 80 years old

An English cricketer played as a right-handed batsman and a right-arm bowler. Barrick contributed to the sport primarily in the domestic circuit and represented Kent County Cricket Club. His performance in the 1950s and 1960s established him as a notable figure in English cricket. He also received recognition in Wisden Cricketers' Almanack, marking a significant accomplishment in his cricketing journey. Barrick’s career further included appearances in first-class matches, accumulating valuable experience and statistics which highlighted his skills on the field. His tenure in cricket lasted several years, significantly influencing the teams he represented.

Continue Reading

Halfdan Hegtun

Norwegian radio host and politician
Born
October 8th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2012 12 years ago — 94 years old

Engaged in radio broadcasting and politics. Served as a radio host for significant periods, facilitating discussions on various societal issues. Held political positions that influenced local governance and public policy in Norway. Played a crucial role in promoting national dialogue through media while contributing to political discourse during active years.

Continue Reading

Karl Abraham

German psychoanalyst and author
Born
May 3rd, 1877 148 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1925 99 years ago — 48 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of psychoanalysis, focusing on the relationship between dreams and the unconscious mind. Developed theories about the fixation and regression in psychosexual development. Served as a leading figure in the Berlin Psychoanalytic Society. Published various works that expanded on Freudian theories, particularly in connection with the treatment of mental illness.

Continue Reading

George Steer

Journalist and war correspondent
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1944 80 years ago — 35 years old

Journalist and author with roots in South Africa and England covered significant events in the 20th century. Gained prominence during the Spanish Civil War, reporting on the conflict's critical moments. Worked for prominent publications, including The Times, and provided detailed accounts of the war. Authored several works, providing insights into warfare and its implications on society. Died in 1944 while serving as a war correspondent in World War II.

Continue Reading

Elena Ceaușescu

Romanian politician and First Lady
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1989 35 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a prominent political figure in Romania, holding various positions within the ruling Communist Party alongside her husband, Nicolae Ceaușescu. Played a key role in the cultural and educational policies of Romania during the communist regime. Involved in shaping women's roles within society through legislative measures. Took part in state functions and represented Romania internationally. After the 1989 Revolution, faced trial and was executed alongside her husband for crimes against the Romanian people.

Continue Reading