Harold Robbins
Author of 'The Carpetbaggers'
Born in 1916, an American author and screenwriter became a prominent figure in the literary world, best known for writing provocative novels that often explored themes of sex, power, and greed. 'The Carpetbaggers', released in 1961, achieved commercial success and was later adapted into a film. Other notable works include 'A Stone for Danny Fisher' and 'The Betsy'. Robbins wrote numerous bestsellers, solidifying a reputation as a master of popular fiction. He also contributed to the screenplay of various films, showcasing versatility beyond his novels. His work garnered a worldwide readership, and he remained an influential figure in American literature throughout his life.
Wrote 'The Carpetbaggers', a bestseller
Authored 'A Stone for Danny Fisher'
Created the novel 'The Betsy'
Other People Born on May 21st
Sisca Folkertsma
Dutch footballer and national team player
Born
May 21st, 1997 28 years ago
Played professional football in the Netherlands and represented the national team. Competed in top leagues and showcased skills as a forward. Participated in international tournaments, contributing to the team's strategy and performance on the field.
Continue ReadingClaire Cashmore
Paralympic swimmer with multiple medals
Born
May 21st, 1988 37 years ago
An accomplished English Paralympic swimmer, this athlete competed in various international swimming competitions. Achievements include participation in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Paralympic Games, earning multiple medals across different events. Specializing in the individual medley and butterfly, notable performances included winning a bronze medal in the 100m breaststroke at the 2012 London Paralympics. This swimmer also set world records in her classification events, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingLucie Hradecká
Czech professional tennis player
Born
May 21st, 1985 40 years ago
Achieved success on the professional tennis circuit, competing in singles and doubles events. Hradecká's most notable accomplishment came in 2011, winning the French Open women's doubles title alongside her partner. Regularly represented Czech Republic in international competitions, contributing to the team during various Fed Cup ties.
Continue ReadingJosh Allen
American football quarterback
Born
May 21st, 1996 29 years ago
A professional American football player, achieved recognition as the starting quarterback for the Buffalo Bills. Played college football at the University of Wyoming, where set several passing records. In 2018, selected by the Bills as the seventh overall pick in the NFL Draft. Led the Bills to multiple playoff appearances, including a trip to the AFC Championship Game in the 2020 season. Accumulated numerous accolades including Pro Bowl selections and recognition as one of the top quarterbacks in the league.
Continue ReadingPark Gyu-ri
South Korean singer and actress
Born
May 21st, 1988 37 years ago
Born in South Korea, contributions included being a prominent member of the girl group KARA, which gained significant popularity in the late 2000s. The group was influential in the K-pop genre and achieved commercial success with hit songs. Aside from music, involvement in television dramas showcased versatility, with notable appearances in series that contributed to popularity as a performer. Engaged in various entertainment projects alongside music career.
Continue ReadingJonny Howson
Footballer with Leeds United prominence
Born
May 21st, 1988 37 years ago
An English footballer played primarily as a midfielder. His career began with Leeds United, where he made over 200 appearances from 2006 to 2012. Following a transfer to Norwich City, he contributed significantly to the team's promotion to the Premier League in 2015. Later played for Middlesbrough and participated in numerous matches throughout his career, showcasing consistency and skill on the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 14th
Janet Nelson
British historian and medieval scholar
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2024 1 years ago — 82 years old
A historian specializing in the early Middle Ages, significant contributions were made to the understanding of the Carolingian Empire. Focused on historical narratives and the social structures of the period, extensive research was conducted on key figures such as Charlemagne. Authored several influential works that explored themes of power, politics, and society during the medieval period. Served in various academic roles and contributed to the scholarly community through teaching and writing.
Continue ReadingTony Roper
Race car driver, USA National Champion
Born
1964 62 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2000 25 years ago — 36 years old
Professional race car driver participated in various racing series, mainly known for competing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Raced for several teams throughout a career that spanned over a decade. Achieved impressive finishes and built a reputation for skill on the track. Lost life tragically in a racing accident during a competition in 2000.
Continue ReadingErwin Rommel
German field marshal during WWII
Born
November 15th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
October 14th, 1944 81 years ago — 52 years old
Served as a German field marshal during World War II. Gained prominence as a commander of the Afrika Korps, leading campaigns in North Africa. Demonstrated strategic ingenuity and earned a reputation for his leadership skills on the battlefield. Played a pivotal role in the Battle of El Alamein and was later involved in military operations in Europe. Involved in plot against Adolf Hitler, which resulted in his forced suicide in 1944.
Continue ReadingRobbie Coltrane
Scottish actor in Harry Potter films
Born
March 30th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2022 3 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1950 in Rutherglen, Scotland, an actor gained widespread recognition for the role of Rubeus Hagrid in the film adaptations of the Harry Potter series. Coltrane's career spanned several decades, showcasing talent in both film and television. He appeared in the television series Cracker, earning critical acclaim and several awards, including the British Academy Television Award for Best Actor. Coltrane's versatility extended to voice work, lending his voice to various projects. He also had roles in other notable films such as GoldenEye and The World Is Not Enough. Coltrane's contributions to the arts were recognized through various accolades throughout his career.
Continue ReadingBenoit Mandelbrot
Mathematician, creator of fractal geometry
Born
November 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Poland and later naturalized in the United States, a mathematician and economist contributed significantly to the field of mathematics by introducing the concept of fractal geometry. His work explored complex structures and patterns found in nature, revolutionizing the understanding of mathematical sets that exhibit self-similarity. The publication of 'The Fractal Geometry of Nature' in 1982 cemented his status as a leading figure in mathematics and inspired studies across various scientific disciplines.
Continue ReadingThomas J. Donohue
Business executive and Chamber leader
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old
Served as president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce from 1997 to 2019. Played a significant role in advocating for business interests at the national level, influencing economic policies. Led the chamber's efforts in promoting free enterprise and workforce development. Contributed to various initiatives enhancing the business environment across the United States.
Continue Reading