Geoffrey de Havilland
Pilot and engineer; designed Mosquito
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An English pilot and engineer played a significant role in the development of military aircraft during World War II. Established the de Havilland Aircraft Company, which produced several notable aircraft designs. The most prominent of these was the de Havilland Mosquito, a twin-engine bomber known for its speed and versatility. Beyond military applications, contributions also extended into civil aviation with the design of the de Havilland Comet, the world's first commercial turbojet airliner. His engineering advancements greatly influenced aircraft performance and technology in aviation.
Designed the de Havilland Mosquito
Established de Havilland Aircraft Company
Developed the de Havilland Comet
Other People Born on July 27th
Loránd Eötvös
Hungarian physicist and Minister of Education
Born
July 27th, 1848 178 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1919 107 years ago — 70 years old
Significant contributions were made to physics, particularly in the study of gravity and the gravimetric measurement of Earth's gravitational field. Served as Minister of Education in Hungary. Held academic positions, including at the University of Budapest. Conducted research that advanced understanding of physical phenomena and developed instruments for measuring gravitational force. Published numerous scientific papers and developed the Eötvös experiment, enhancing the measurement of surface tension.
Continue ReadingDiane Webber
Model and actress from 'The Naked City'
Born
July 27th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 76 years old
Engaged in modeling, dancing, and acting from the mid-20th century. Featured as a pin-up and appeared in several publications. Gained recognition for the role in the television series 'The Naked City'. Worked with various filmmakers and contributed to the entertainment industry during her career.
Continue ReadingJonathan Rhys Meyers
Irish actor in 'The Tudors'
Born
July 27th, 1977 49 years ago
Born in 1977, this Irish actor gained prominence for his role as King Henry VIII in the television series 'The Tudors'. He started his acting career in the late 1990s and appeared in several films and television shows. Some of his notable works include 'Match Point', directed by Woody Allen, and the film 'August Rush'. He has received several award nominations throughout his career for his performances. In addition to acting, he has been involved in music and has released singles.
Continue ReadingMarielle Franco
Brazilian politician and human rights activist
Born
July 27th, 1979 47 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2018 8 years ago — 38 years old
A politician and activist in Brazil, focused on issues of social justice, human rights, and police violence. Served as a city councilor in Rio de Janeiro, advocating for marginalized communities and promoting equality. Gained national and international attention for her outspoken criticism of state violence and systemic discrimination. Tragically assassinated in 2018, prompting widespread protests and calls for justice.
Continue ReadingEdward Montagu
1st Earl of Sandwich and naval commander
Born
July 27th, 1625 401 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1671 355 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1625, this individual served as a prominent naval commander and statesman in England. He played a significant role during the English Civil War, aligning with the Parliamentary side. In 1660, he was appointed as one of the military leaders for the Restoration of King Charles II. His naval career included being the Lord of the Admiralty, where he oversaw key naval strategies and operations that contributed to England's maritime strength. The 1st Earl of Sandwich is also linked to the creation of the sandwich, a popular food item that bears his title, though the exact origins of the name remain debated.
Continue ReadingGorden Tallis
Rugby league player and coach
Born
July 27th, 1973 53 years ago
A highly regarded rugby league player and coach, Tallis played most of his career as a second-row forward. He achieved significant success with the Brisbane Broncos during the 1990s and is remembered for his fierce playing style. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching and commentary roles, sustaining a presence in the rugby league community. Tallis also represented Australia internationally, contributing to numerous victories and earning respect for his leadership on and off the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 21st
Louis V
Elector Palatine, ruler in Germany
Born
July 2nd, 1478 548 years ago
Died
May 21st, 987 1039 years ago — -492 years old
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Kuwaiti politician and Speaker of the Assembly
Born
1940 86 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 11 years ago — 75 years old
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Chinese economist and chancellor
Born
December 8th, 1021 1004 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1086 940 years ago — 64 years old
An influential Chinese economist and chancellor, focused on reforming the Sung dynasty's economic policies. Implemented the New Policies, which aimed to stabilize the economy, improve agricultural productivity, and expand state control over tax collection. These reforms included the promotion of state-sponsored loans and the establishment of a better government procurement system for grain. Writings on economic theory, governance, and philosophy contributed extensively to intellectual discourse during his time and afterward.
Continue ReadingFred Gladding
Baseball player and pitching coach
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 11 years ago — 79 years old
Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher for multiple teams including the Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, and New York Mets. Transitioned to coaching, serving as a pitching coach for the Houston Astros and New York Mets. Contributed to the development of many players throughout his coaching career. Enjoyed a long tenure in professional baseball both as a player and a coach.
Continue ReadingKenneth Clark
English historian and author of art books
Born
July 13th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1983 43 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent English art historian and author, contributed significantly to the field of art history through extensive writing and broadcasting. Engaged as a director of the Ashmolean Museum and later served as the director of the British Museum. Played a crucial role in the development of art education, especially through television, bringing complex concepts to a wider audience. His book 'Civilisation' and the accompanying television series provided a comprehensive overview of Western art history. Advocated for the importance of art in education and cultural understanding.
Continue ReadingAnn Little
American actress in silent films
Born
1891 135 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1984 42 years ago — 93 years old
Active in the early 20th century, this actress starred in silent films. Gained attention for performances in movies such as 'The Coming of Amos' (1913) and 'The Count of Monte Cristo' (1922). Transitioned to sound films but her prominence diminished with the advent of talkies. Continued to work in various acting roles throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s.
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