Hanna Reitsch
German pilot and test pilot
Born in 1912, a pioneering test pilot in Germany. Worked with the German military during World War II and was involved in the development of advanced aircraft. Reitsch flew various aircraft types, including the Messerschmitt Me 163 rocket plane and the Focke-Wulf Fw 190. After the war, she continued to work in aviation, promoting flight safety and training new pilots. Played a crucial role in demonstrating the capabilities of German aircraft in the early era of jet and rocket propulsion. Despite controversies surrounding her affiliations, her contributions to aviation technology remain noted.
First woman to receive the Iron Cross 1st Class
Test flew the first operational rocket-powered aircraft
Other People Born on March 29th
Tullio Levi-Civita
Mathematician known for tensor calculus
Born
March 29th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1941 83 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of differential and integral calculus, particularly in the context of tensor calculus. Developed the Levi-Civita symbol, which is essential in multivariable calculus and physics. Held academic positions in various institutions, imparting knowledge on advanced mathematics. His work laid foundational aspects for Einstein's theory of general relativity and influenced the study of mathematical physics.
Continue ReadingWarner Baxter
American actor in silent films
Born
March 29th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1951 74 years ago — 62 years old
An actor active during the silent era and early sound films, participated in numerous productions. Gained significant recognition for performances in films such as 'The Temple of Doom' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Won an Academy Award for Best Actor for the role in 'In Old Arizona', marking a notable achievement in a successful film career.
Continue ReadingJohn Lightfoot
English priest and biblical scholar
Born
March 29th, 1602 423 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1675 350 years ago — 73 years old
An English priest and academic contributed significantly to biblical scholarship in the 17th century. Appointed as a member of the Westminster Assembly, engaged in debates on the English Reformation and biblical interpretation. Served as Vice-Chancellor of Cambridge University, strengthening academic discourse. Authored numerous works including 'Horae Hebraicae et Talmudicae', a comprehensive study of Hebrew scriptures. Played a pivotal role in early biblical criticism and interpretations of ancient texts.
Continue ReadingJoseph P. Teasdale
American politician, 48th Governor of Missouri
Born
March 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 48th Governor of Missouri from 1977 to 1981. Engaged in law practice before entering politics, earning a reputation in the legal community. Contributed to various state initiatives during gubernatorial tenure, focusing on issues such as education and infrastructure. His administration was marked by efforts to improve public services and foster economic growth in Missouri.
Continue ReadingBraguinha
Brazilian singer-songwriter and producer
Born
March 29th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2006 19 years ago — 99 years old
Born in 1907, this Brazilian singer-songwriter and producer contributed significantly to the genre of samba. With a career spanning several decades, he became a pivotal figure in Brazilian music. His works blended traditional samba with contemporary influences, appealing to a wide audience. Collaborating with various talented musicians, he produced numerous songs that became classics. Some of his compositions gained popularity in the carnival scene and beyond, showcasing the vibrant culture of Brazil. He left a lasting legacy in the music industry.
Continue ReadingJean-de-Dieu Soult
French General and Prime Minister
Born
March 29th, 1769 256 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1851 174 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent military figure during the Napoleonic Wars, served as a Marshal of France. As Prime Minister, held office during the turbulent Restoration period following Napoleon's defeat. Played a key role in various battles, including the Battle of Austerlitz and the Peninsular War. Known for efforts in administrative and military reforms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 24th
Jane Greer
American actress in film noir classics
Born
September 9th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2001 24 years ago — 76 years old
Began a career in the 1940s, quickly gaining prominence in the film industry. Starred in notable films such as 'Out of the Past' and 'The Big Steal'. Greer's performances showcased an ability to portray complex characters, often within the film noir genre. Later in her career, appeared in television series and made guest appearances, continuing to engage with audiences until her retirement. Recognized for her contributions to cinema through various accolades.
Continue ReadingPaul Gottlieb Nipkow
Inventor of the Nipkow disk
Born
August 22nd, 1860 165 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1940 85 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed to the field of television technology with the invention of the Nipkow disk, a crucial component in early mechanical televisions. Developed this device in 1884, which enabled the transmission of images by scanning them. The innovation laid foundational work for future television systems and influenced video technology development through the 20th century.
Continue ReadingTom Norman
English businessman and entrepreneur
Born
May 7th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1930 95 years ago — 70 years old
A businessman from England, played a significant role in the candy industry. Established a successful confectionery company that produced a wide variety of sweets. Became prominent for creating a popular line of products that gained a large customer base. The business was rooted in traditional recipes and showcased an understanding of market trends. Focused on quality and innovation, which led to an expansion in the company’s offerings. Managed the brand to achieve recognition during its peak years in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingRocco Petrone
Colonel and engineer of Apollo program
Born
March 31st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2006 19 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Air Force and became a prominent engineer in the space program. Played a critical role in the Apollo missions, particularly as the Director of Launch Operations at Kennedy Space Center. Oversaw the successful Apollo 11 mission, which resulted in the first human landing on the Moon. Contributed to advancements in aerospace technology and launch procedures during a pivotal era of space exploration.
Continue ReadingHenry J. Kaiser
Businessman and shipyard founder
Born
May 9th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 85 years old
Founded Kaiser Shipyards during World War II, which became recognized for producing Liberty ships and other wartime vessels. Established Kaiser Aluminum, a significant player in the aluminum industry. Was an early advocate of prefabricated housing and helped develop the modular home concept. Played a crucial role in establishing the modern healthcare system in California through the creation of Kaiser Permanente.
Continue ReadingJames Clark McReynolds
American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
February 3rd, 1862 163 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1946 79 years ago — 84 years old
Graduated from the University of Virginia and the University of Maryland School of Law. Served as the U.S. Attorney General from 1913 to 1914. Appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1920, serving until retirement in 1941. Notable for his conservative judicial philosophy and significant opinions in cases concerning civil rights and labor law.
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