Ignatius Zakka I Iwas
Iraqi patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church
Served as the Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church from 1980 until death in 2014. Oversaw a significant period of growth within the church and participated in interfaith dialogue efforts, promoting cooperation among different Christian denominations and between religions. Actively engaged in humanitarian work, focusing on the rights and welfare of Christians in the Middle East. His leadership spanned major events affecting the church and its followers in Iraq and beyond.
Led the Syriac Orthodox Church for over three decades
Promoted ecumenical relations between churches
Advocated for the rights of Middle Eastern Christians
Other People Born on April 21st
Edwin Stanton Porter
Film director of 'The Great Train Robbery'
Born
April 21st, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 71 years old
A pivotal figure in early cinema, directed and produced several influential silent films. Gained recognition primarily for 'The Great Train Robbery' in 1903, which is considered one of the first narrative films in history. Worked with Thomas Edison’s studio, contributing to the production of various early short films and leveraging innovative techniques that laid groundwork for modern filmmaking. Later established his own production company and continued to shape the industry.
Continue ReadingReg Fleming
Ice hockey player; New York Rangers
Born
April 21st, 1936 89 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1936, played as a professional ice hockey player. Competed in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the New York Rangers. Also played for the Chicago Black Hawks and the Boston Bruins during a career spanning over a decade. Known for physical style of play and contributions in the league's history, highlighting skills as a reliable forward.
Continue ReadingAlfred Henry Maurer
American painter known for modernist works
Born
April 21st, 1868 157 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1932 93 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1868, a prominent American painter contributed to the modern art movement in the early 20th century. Initially influenced by Impressionism, transitioned to a more abstract style influenced by Post-Impressionism and Fauvism. Participated in multiple exhibitions including the Armory Show in 1913, which introduced modernist art to the American public. His works often featured bold colors and exaggerated forms. Authored significant works that are part of the permanent collections at major institutions, showcasing the evolution of American painting during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingKen Caminiti
Baseball player and 1996 MVP
Born
April 21st, 1963 62 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2004 21 years ago — 41 years old
This individual played professional baseball in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1987 to 2001. Primarily a third baseman, a significant portion of the career was spent with the San Diego Padres. Achievements include a standout season in 1996 when awarded the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. This player was recognized for a powerful batting style and defensive prowess throughout his career, contributing to the Padres' success. After retiring from baseball, challenges ensued, including controversies related to substance use.
Continue ReadingMichel Rolle
French mathematician and academic
Born
April 21st, 1652 373 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1719 306 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics during the 17th century. Played a crucial role in the development of algebra and calculus. Authored notable works, including 'La Geometrie' which provided methods for solving equations. Developed the concept of Rolle's Theorem, an essential result in calculus regarding differentiable functions. Involved in academic circles and contributed to the establishment of mathematical practices in France.
Continue ReadingMaurice Wilson
English soldier and mountaineer
Born
April 21st, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1934 92 years ago — 36 years old
Born in 1898, served as a soldier in World War I, later becoming an accomplished pilot. In 1934, aimed to summit Mount Everest, undertaking a solo expedition without supplemental oxygen. The journey was marked by challenges, ultimately resulting in disappearance on the mountain.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 21st
Annibale de Gasparis
Italian astronomer and comet discoverer
Died
March 21st, 1892 133 years ago — None years old
An astronomer from Italy, recognized for the discovery of multiple comets during the 19th century. Active in the field of astronomy throughout his life, contributions included work on celestial mechanics and planetary studies. Served as director of the Observatory of Capodimonte in Naples, where significant research on asteroids and comets was conducted. His calculations and observational techniques advanced the understanding of celestial bodies in the era.
Continue ReadingMichael Redgrave
English actor and director in theater
Born
March 20th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1985 40 years ago — 77 years old
Played leading roles in theater and film from the 1930s to the 1970s. Directed several theatrical productions and made significant contributions to the British stage. In film, appeared in classics such as 'The Lady Vanishes' and 'The Browning Version'. Received critical acclaim for performances and directed the film 'The Seagull'.
Continue ReadingFrederick Winslow Taylor
Industrial engineer and efficiency expert
Born
March 20th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1915 110 years ago — 59 years old
An engineer and management consultant, contributed to the development of scientific management. Established methods to improve industrial efficiency and productivity through systematic observations and time studies. Authored 'The Principles of Scientific Management,' which laid the foundation for modern management practices. Implemented time and motion studies to analyze workflows in manufacturing settings.
Continue ReadingLeo Fender
American businessman and guitar inventor
Born
August 10th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1991 34 years ago — 81 years old
Founded Fender Musical Instruments Corporation in 1946, revolutionizing the music industry with electric guitars and amplifiers. Developed iconic instruments such as the Telecaster and Stratocaster, which became staples in rock and roll and blues music. Provided innovative designs that influenced generations of musicians. Contributed to the advancement of electric music technology and shaped the sound of modern music.
Continue ReadingChuck Bednarik
Football player and NFL Hall of Famer
Born
May 1st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
Bednarik played as a center and linebacker in professional American football. Spending his entire 14-year career with the Philadelphia Eagles, he became a key figure in the team's history. Bednarik was a two-time NFL Champion, securing titles in 1948 and 1949. Elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, he was recognized for his toughness and durability on the field. After retiring, Bednarik remained involved with football, contributing to its legacy and history.
Continue ReadingDrew Hayes
Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
1969 57 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2007 18 years ago — 38 years old
An author and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Created several notable series including the 'Super Zero' series and 'The Wishing Tree'. Illustrated a variety of books that captured the imagination of young readers and gained attention for engaging storytelling and whimsical artwork.
Continue Reading