Janice E. Voss
Engineer and NASA astronaut
An engineer and astronaut, contributed to multiple Space Shuttle missions. Earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University and a Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering from MIT. Participated in five spaceflights, including missions STS-57, STS-63, and STS-83. Contributed to scientific research aboard the Space Shuttle, focusing on materials science and other experiments. Worked as a project manager at NASA, facilitating advanced aerospace technology development.
Completed five spaceflights
Participated in STS-57, STS-63, and STS-83
Conducted scientific research in space
Other People Born on October 8th
John Henninger Reagan
Confederate Secretary of the Treasury
Born
October 8th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1905 120 years ago — 86 years old
Served as the third Secretary of the Treasury for the Confederate States of America from 1861 to 1865. Prior to this role, engaged in surveying and held positions as a judge. Participated in Texas politics, representing the state in the United States House of Representatives before the Civil War. After the war, returned to Texas and continued involvement in public service.
Continue ReadingFaith Ringgold
Artist and author of 'Tar Beach'
Born
October 8th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
An American artist and author, established a reputation through vibrant storytelling in artworks and children's literature. Incorporated quilt-making techniques into visual art, exploring themes of race, gender, and identity. Gained acclaim with the illustrated story 'Tar Beach', which received the Caldecott Honor. Contributed to the feminist art movement through her unique approach, combining cultural narratives with artistic expression.
Continue ReadingEddie Rickenbacker
Ace pilot and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
October 8th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1973 52 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a fighter pilot during World War I, achieving significant success in aerial combat. Accumulated 26 aerial victories, making contributions to the development of air tactics and strategy. Awarded the Medal of Honor for exceptional bravery and skill. Post-war, involved in business and became a pioneer in commercial aviation, leading Eastern Air Lines as its president.
Continue ReadingHarman Blennerhassett
Lawyer and politician involved in dueling
Born
October 8th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
1831 194 years ago — 66 years old
A lawyer and politician, played a significant role in early 19th-century American politics. Worked as a landowner and established a famous island estate in the Ohio River. Engaged in a political alliance with Aaron Burr, which led to treason charges after Burr's failed expedition. Later fled to England after the legal issues, where continued to be involved in political and legal matters until death.
Continue ReadingCésar Milstein
Biochemist, Nobel Prize laureate in Physiology
Born
October 8th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2002 23 years ago — 74 years old
An Argentinian-English biochemist, significant contributions focused on the development of monoclonal antibody technology. This breakthrough technology revolutionized biomedical research and diagnostics. Milstein's research was conducted primarily at the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, where innovative methodologies in immunology were established. His work gained recognition in the scientific community, culminating in the award of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1984, shared with Georges Köhler and Niels K. Jerne.
Continue ReadingHuntley Gordon
Canadian-American actor in silent films
Born
October 8th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1956 69 years ago — 77 years old
Active during the silent film era, this actor appeared in numerous films. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Love Burglar' and 'The Phantom of the Opera'. Transitioned into sound films with notable roles in early talkies. Worked extensively in both Hollywood and Canadian cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 6th
Max Perutz
Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2002 23 years ago — 87 years old
Austrian-English biologist specialized in the study of protein structure. Conducted pioneering research using X-ray crystallography to understand hemoglobin. Contributed significantly to the field of molecular biology through the elucidation of protein structure. Spent much of academic career at the University of Cambridge and founded the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology.
Continue ReadingGustav Klimt
Austrian painter, The Kiss
Born
July 14th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1918 107 years ago — 55 years old
This artist was an influential figure in the Vienna Secession movement. Known for the unique use of gold leaf and decorative elements, created extravagant and symbolically rich works. The most recognized painting, "The Kiss," showcases the artist's signature style, fusing erotic themes with intricate patterns. Other notable works include "Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I" and "The Tree of Life," which reflect his innovative approach to form and color. His work often explored themes of love, femininity, and mortality, making significant contributions to early 20th-century art.
Continue ReadingGary Moore
Irish guitarist and singer-songwriter
Born
April 4th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2011 14 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in rock and blues, contributed to music as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. Gained recognition in the late 1970s and 1980s for blending rock with blues elements. Achieved significant success with the hit single 'Still Got the Blues.' Participated in various bands, including Skid Row and Thin Lizzy, enhancing the musical landscape. Released numerous solo albums, showcasing exceptional guitar skills and emotive songwriting. Influenced many musicians and left a lasting legacy in the genres he championed.
Continue ReadingDonald Lynden-Bell
English astrophysicist and astronomer
Born
April 5th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2018 7 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics, particularly in the study of galaxies and the dynamics of stellar systems. Developed the concept of the dark matter halo, enhancing understanding of galaxy formation and evolution. Involved with the discovery of supermassive black holes at the center of galaxies, influencing modern cosmological theories. Participated in numerous projects and organizations focused on astronomical research and education.
Continue ReadingMaxine Kumin
American poet and author of 'Inside the Halo'
Born
June 6th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
An accomplished author and poet, this individual published numerous works throughout her career. The anthology 'Inside the Halo and Other Poems' received critical acclaim and contributed significantly to modern poetry. In addition to poetry, significant contributions included essays and children's books, many of which drew inspiration from the natural world and personal experiences. This individual also held teaching positions in prestigious institutions, mentoring aspiring writers and fostering appreciation for poetry. In 1973, won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for the collection 'Up Country', highlighting expertise and recognition in the literary community.
Continue ReadingMotilal Nehru
Indian lawyer and Congress President
Born
May 6th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1931 94 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, held the office of President of the Indian National Congress in 1919 and again in 1928. Played a pivotal role in shaping the Indian independence movement through legal and political advocacy. Contributed to the drafting of the Motilal Nehru Report in 1928, which aimed to increase self-governance in India. Actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement alongside Mahatma Gandhi, advocating for civil disobedience against British rule.
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