Jack Swigert
Apollo 13 astronaut and pilot
A pilot and astronaut, served as the Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 13. Joined NASA in 1966, contributing to the Apollo program. After his time with NASA, engaged in various aviation and business roles. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Colorado’s 6th congressional district posthumously.
Served as Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 13
Participated in the early Apollo missions
Other People Born on August 30th
Ted Williams
Baseball player, manager, and Hall of Famer
Born
August 30th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2002 23 years ago — 83 years old
An American baseball player and manager, achieved prominence in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Boston Red Sox. Played as an outfielder between 1939 and 1960. Notably, recorded a career batting average of .344, with 521 home runs. Served in the military during World War II and the Korean War, missing nearly five seasons. Managed the Washington Senators from 1969 to 1971. Achieved induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1966.
Continue ReadingJ. Alden Weir
Painter and academic known for Impressionism
Born
August 30th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1919 106 years ago — 67 years old
An American painter and educator, focused on Impressionism, established a reputation through landscape painting and portraits. Studied at the National Academy of Design and the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Played a significant role in the development of American art through teaching and mentoring younger artists. Worked extensively in his studio in Connecticut and contributed to art societies, including serving as a founding member of the Ten American Painters.
Continue ReadingDenis Healey
Chancellor of the Exchequer, politician
Born
August 30th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent British politician and soldier, served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1974 to 1979 under Prime Minister Harold Wilson. Contributed to economic policies during challenging times, with a focus on addressing inflation and public spending. Participated in World War II as a soldier in the British Army. Later became involved in various political roles, including Member of Parliament for Leeds East from 1952 to 1992.
Continue ReadingNancy Wake
New Zealand-English World War II operative
Born
August 30th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2011 14 years ago — 98 years old
Born in New Zealand, served as a key operative during World War II. Joined the Special Operations Executive and worked with the French Resistance. Played a significant role in disrupting German operations in occupied France. After the war, received multiple commendations for bravery and leadership.
Continue ReadingLionel Murphy
Australian jurist and Attorney-General
Born
August 30th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the 22nd Attorney-General of Australia from 1972 to 1975. Contributed to significant reforms in law, particularly in areas related to civil rights and social justice. Played a key role in the establishment of the Australian Legal Aid Office. Appointed to the High Court of Australia in 1975, serving until 1986. Influenced various legal precedents during tenure on the court.
Continue ReadingFábio Carvalho
Footballer for Fulham FC and Portugal
Born
August 30th, 2002 23 years ago
This Portuguese footballer played as an attacking midfielder. Carvalho began his professional career with Fulham FC, making significant contributions to the team's performances in the EFL Championship. His skills garnered attention, leading to his selection for the Portugal national team at various youth levels. He gained recognition for his technical abilities and creativity on the pitch, showcasing exceptional potential early in his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 27th
Gianna D'Angelo
American soprano and educator
Born
November 18th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2013 11 years ago — 84 years old
An American soprano and educator with a distinguished career in opera and vocal performance. Studied under notable vocal coaches and performed at major opera houses. Contributed significantly to the education of future generations of singers through teaching and mentorship. Emphasized the importance of vocal technique and artistry in her teachings.
Continue ReadingFanny Cradock
Chef and television cooking presenter
Born
February 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1994 30 years ago — 85 years old
An influential figure in British culinary arts, gained recognition for television cooking programs that showcased both traditional and modern recipes. Published numerous cookbooks, contributing significantly to the popularization of home cooking in the post-war era. Known for a distinctive style and charming persona, established a legacy in culinary television.
Continue ReadingStein Eriksen
Norwegian-American Olympic skier
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2015 9 years ago — 88 years old
Originated from Norway, celebrated for excellence in alpine skiing. Competed in the 1952 Winter Olympics and clinched the gold medal in slalom and silver in giant slalom. Also played a pivotal role in advancing the sport in the United States after moving there. Besides racing, involved in ski instruction and promotion of skiing as a recreational sport, contributing to the development of ski resorts.
Continue ReadingGreg Gumbel
American sportscaster and news anchor
Born
May 3rd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2024 0 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1946, this sportscaster started his career in the 1970s. He served as a sports anchor for several television stations, including CBS Sports, where he became a prominent figure. This individual hosted various major sports events, including the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament and the NFL on CBS, showcasing expertise in live sports broadcasting. Over the years, this sportscaster allowed audiences to follow significant moments in sports history through his coverage and commentary.
Continue ReadingFrank Blaichman
Polish resistance fighter during WWII
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2018 6 years ago — 96 years old
Participated in the Polish resistance against Nazi Germany during World War II. After being captured and detained, escaped from a German prison and continued to fight against occupying forces. Contributed to Jewish resistance efforts and later settled in the United States, where he shared his experiences and advocated for Jewish history and memory.
Continue ReadingUlises Estrella
Ecuadorian poet and academic
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2014 10 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent Ecuadorian poet and academic focused on literature and education. Contributed significantly to Ecuadorian poetry through various publications and teachings. Participated in literary movements and collaborated with other poets and intellectuals in the region. Engaged in academic discourse, promoting literature and cultural studies within Ecuadorian universities.
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