George Ellery Hale

Astronomer and solar observatory founder

George Ellery Hale - Astronomer and solar observatory founder
Born

June 29th, 1868
157 years ago

Died

February 21st, 1938
87 years ago — 69 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

Contributions to astronomy included founding several observatories. Developed the solar telescope and made significant discoveries about the sun, including the existence of sunspots. Established the Mount Wilson Observatory in California, which advanced astrophysical research. Pioneered the use of spectroscopy in astrophysics and contributed to the understanding of stellar evolution.

Founded the Mount Wilson Observatory

Developed the solar telescope

Discovered sunspots

Pioneered astrophysical spectroscopy

Other People Born on June 29th

Judith Hoag

Actress in 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles'
Born
June 29th, 1963 62 years ago

An American actress and educator, gained recognition for the role of April O'Neil in the 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' film released in 1990. Also appeared in the television series 'Party of Five' and 'Even Stevens'. Worked as a vocal coach and contributed to various educational programs for young performers. Active in theater productions and continues to engage in acting projects across film and television.

Continue Reading

Brian d'Arcy James

American actor and musician
Born
June 29th, 1968 57 years ago

An accomplished actor and musician, significant contributions include performances in musical theater and television. Achievements include Tony Award nominations for roles in 'Something Rotten!' and 'Shrek the Musical.' In television, prominent appearances included roles in '13 Reasons Why' and 'The Good Wife.' Musical talent extended to original cast recordings and concert performances.

Continue Reading

Ray Harryhausen

Animator and producer of stop-motion films
Born
June 29th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 93 years old

Pioneered stop-motion animation techniques that revolutionized visual effects in cinema. Created iconic creatures and characters for films such as 'Jason and the Argonauts', 'The 7th Voyage of Sinbad', and 'Clash of the Titans'. Contributed to the development of animated storytelling, influencing countless filmmakers and animators. Received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Continue Reading

Bret McKenzie

Comedian and musician from New Zealand
Born
June 29th, 1976 49 years ago

A comedian, actor, musician, songwriter, and producer with roots in New Zealand. Gained prominence as one half of the musical comedy duo Flight of the Conchords. Contributed to the HBO television series of the same name, which showcased their comedic songs and sketches. Also achieved recognition for work on the music for the film 'The Muppets', which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Continue Reading

Egon von Fürstenberg

Fashion designer and brand creator
Born
June 29th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2004 21 years ago — 57 years old

Born in Switzerland, a prominent fashion designer established a distinct style characterized by vibrant prints and elegant silhouettes. Founded a successful fashion brand that gained recognition for its luxurious garments and accessories. Contributed to the fashion industry by pioneering the wrap dress, which became a staple in women's fashion. Garnered a reputation for combining innovation with craftsmanship, appealing to a global audience through diverse collections and collaborations.

Continue Reading

Curt Sachs

Composer and musicologist
Born
June 29th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Germany, this individual became a significant figure in musicology and the study of musical instruments. Emigrating to the United States, contributions included extensive research and publications on the history and development of various musical forms and instruments. A pivotal work, 'The History of Musical Instruments,' offered comprehensive insights into the evolution of music. Involved in the establishment of modern musicology as an academic discipline, played a key role in editing and contributing to the field's early literature. Additionally, this individual engaged in teaching, sharing knowledge with future generations of musicians and scholars.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 21st

Ambrose Dudley

English nobleman and general
Born
1528 497 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1590 435 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure during the Tudor period, served as a general in the English army. He held the title of 3rd Earl of Warwick from 1587 until his death. Participated in military campaigns and was involved in the defense of England against foreign threats. Played a key role in the military governance of the time, particularly under Queen Elizabeth I. His leadership was evident during the conflict with Spain, particularly concerning the Spanish Armada.

Continue Reading

Billy Graham

American evangelist and author
Born
June 7th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2018 7 years ago — 74 years old

An evangelist and preacher who played a crucial role in promoting Christianity worldwide through mass rallies and televised sermons. Established the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Authored several books, including 'Just As I Am', which reflects his life and faith journey. Conducted public crusades beginning in the 1940s, reaching millions across multiple continents. Influenced both religious and political spheres, working with various U.S. presidents throughout his career.

Continue Reading

William Weston

Australian politician, 3rd Premier of Tasmania
Born
November 28th, 1804 220 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.

Continue Reading

Helen Hooven Santmyer

American novelist with 'And Ladies of the Club'
Born
November 25th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1986 39 years ago — 90 years old

An American novelist authored 'And Ladies of the Club', published in 1982. The novel, which chronicles the lives of women in a small Ohio town, received critical acclaim, establishing a significant place in American literature. Santmyer spent years researching and writing, culminating in a work that reflects historical societal norms and women’s roles. The novel’s depth and character development garnered attention, leading to its reprinting and adaptation into a television miniseries in 1983. In addition to novels, Santmyer wrote essays and articles, contributing to various publications. Her literary career spanned several decades, marked by a focus on women's experiences and community narratives.

Continue Reading

Ferenc Szisz

Racing driver; first Grand Prix winner
Born
September 20th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1944 81 years ago — 70 years old

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.

Continue Reading

Gertrude B. Elion

American biochemist and Nobel laureate
Born
January 23rd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent biochemist and pharmacologist contributed significantly to the development of drugs that treat various diseases. Collaborated with George H. Hitchings at Burroughs Wellcome Laboratories, focusing on creating innovative medications. Elion's research led to the development of the first effective treatments for leukemia and drugs to prevent organ transplantation rejection. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1988 alongside Hitchings and Sir James W. Black for their discoveries concerning new principles for drug treatment.

Continue Reading