Jack Parsons

Chemist and Rocket Propulsion Pioneer

Jack Parsons - Chemist and Rocket Propulsion Pioneer
Born

October 2nd, 1914
110 years ago

Died

June 17th, 1952
72 years ago — 37 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

An American chemist and engineer, this individual contributed significantly to the early development of rocket propulsion technology. Involved with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the California Institute of Technology, he played a crucial role in the advancement of solid-fuel rockets. Additionally, he was associated with the Thelema spiritual philosophy, influenced by Aleister Crowley, and engaged in various occult practices. His work with the Aerojet Engineering Corporation furthered the use of chemical propellants in rocketry. Tragedy struck in 1952 when an explosion occurred at his home laboratory, resulting in his death. Despite a life marked by controversy and challenges, his legacy endures in the field of aerospace engineering.

Co-founded the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Developed solid-fuel rocket technology

Pioneered efforts in chemical propellants

Other People Born on October 2nd

Lal Bahadur Shastri

2nd Prime Minister of India
Born
October 2nd, 1904 120 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1966 59 years ago — 61 years old

Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of India from 1964 until his death in 1966. Played a significant role in shaping India's foreign policy and initiated major agricultural reforms that led to the Green Revolution. Known for the slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan," emphasizing the importance of soldiers and farmers. His leadership during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 enhanced national pride. Integral in promoting the idea of self-sufficiency in food production.

Continue Reading

Aaron McKie

NBA basketball player and coach
Born
October 2nd, 1972 52 years ago

A professional basketball player and coach, played primarily for the Philadelphia 76ers. Played as a shooting guard and small forward and was a key figure during the team's successful runs in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Contributed to the team's appearance in the 2001 NBA Finals. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, serving as an assistant coach for several teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers.

Continue Reading

Darren Cahill

Tennis coach and former player, Australian Open
Born
October 2nd, 1965 59 years ago

A former professional tennis player and prominent coach, this individual gained recognition on the ATP Tour during the 1980s and 1990s. Achieving a career-high singles ranking of World No. 22, the player reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open and the fourth round of Wimbledon. Transitioning from his playing career, the individual established a successful coaching career, contributing to the development of several top players, specifically in the women's game. Significant achievements include guiding one athlete to a Grand Slam title and overseeing the careers of other high-ranked players, enhancing their game strategically.

Continue Reading

Pattie Ruffner Jacobs

American suffragist and activist
Born
October 2nd, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1935 90 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent suffragist, significant contributions included advocacy for women's voting rights and involvement in various organizations dedicated to suffrage. Played a crucial role in the Alabama Equal Suffrage Association and worked closely with national suffrage movements. Actively campaigned for the passage of the 19th Amendment. Jacobs emphasized the importance of women's participation in political processes and organized campaigns to promote these ideals throughout Alabama.

Continue Reading

Jim Root

Guitarist for Slipknot and Stone Sour
Born
October 2nd, 1971 53 years ago

A prominent guitarist and songwriter played a significant role in shaping the sound of heavy metal through contributions to the bands Slipknot and Stone Sour. Joined Slipknot in 1999, contributing to the band's self-titled debut album released in 1999, which gained commercial success and critical acclaim. Also co-founded Stone Sour, releasing multiple albums including their acclaimed breakthrough album, 'Come What(ever) May' in 2006. Known for a signature guitar style that combines aggressive riffs and melodic elements. Recognized for contributions to the heavy metal genre across multiple albums and live performances.

Continue Reading

Leopold Figl

Austrian Chancellor and politician
Born
October 2nd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1965 59 years ago — 62 years old

Austrian politician held the office of Chancellor from 1945 to 1953. Central to the reconstruction of Austria post-World War II, Figl led the country through its first elections after the war and was instrumental in establishing the Second Republic of Austria. He played a significant role in the negotiations that led to the Austrian State Treaty in 1955, which restored Austria's sovereignty and neutrality. After serving as Chancellor, he held various positions within the Austrian People's Party and continued to contribute to the country's political landscape until his retirement.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 17th

Jan of Jenštejn

Archbishop of Prague
Born
1348 677 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1400 624 years ago — 52 years old

Served as Archbishop of Prague from 1379 to 1397. Played a significant role in the ecclesiastical and political landscape of Bohemia during the late 14th century. Engaged in conflicts with Czech nobility and participated in various religious and political affairs. Contributed to improving the administration of the Archdiocese of Prague and was involved in the establishment of the Prague University.

Continue Reading

Bulbs Ehlers

American basketball player, All-American
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 90 years old

A collegiate basketball player achieved distinction as an All-American at the University of Kansas. Played for the Kansas Jayhawks from 1940 to 1943, contributing to the team's strong performance during that period. After college, played professionally for the Chicago Stags and other teams in the Basketball Association of America. Ehlers' career spanned several years, showcasing skills in scoring and leadership on the court. His contributions to both collegiate and professional basketball left a lasting legacy in the sport.

Continue Reading

Uthman

Caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate
Died
June 17th, 656 1368 years ago — None years old

Born in 579, served as the third caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate from 644 until 656. Played a significant role in the expansion of the Islamic state, overseeing conquests in Persia, North Africa, and the Balkans. Under caliphate, standardized the written Quran, preserving its text for future generations. His governance faced internal dissent, leading to unrest and his eventual assassination in 656.

Continue Reading

Fritz Walter

German footballer, 1954 World Cup winner
Born
October 31st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2002 22 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent German footballer, played as an attacking midfielder and forward. Spent the majority of his career at 1. FC Kaiserslautern, where he achieved significant success. Acted as team captain during the 1954 FIFA World Cup, leading Germany to victory against Hungary in the final, a match famously referred to as the 'Miracle of Bern'. His contributions to the sport extended beyond club football, representing the national team in 61 matches and scoring 33 goals. Remembered for his technical skills and leadership.

Continue Reading

Claude Louis Hector de Villars

French General, Minister of Defence
Born
May 8th, 1653 371 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1734 290 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1653, a prominent French general and politician served as the Minister of Defence. Achieved significant military success during the War of the Spanish Succession, particularly at the Battle of Denain in 1712, where his leadership played a critical role in securing victory for France. Held esteemed positions, including governor of several territories and managing military strategies that impacted national security. Recognized for contributions to military reforms and strengthening the French army.

Continue Reading

Edward Burne-Jones

English painter and designer of stained glass
Born
August 28th, 1833 191 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1898 126 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure in the Pre-Raphaelite movement, contributed significantly to the realms of painting and design during the late 19th century. Created iconic works characterized by mythological and medieval themes. Collaborated on stained glass designs, influencing church décor across England. Held a significant role as a member of the Arts and Crafts Movement, advocating for craftsmanship in art.

Continue Reading