John Moisant
Pioneer aviator and aeronautical engineer
An early aviation pioneer and engineer. Built and flew several innovative aircraft. First pilot to perform a transcontinental flight in the U.S. Established aviation benchmarks with his contributions to flight technology and safety.
First pilot to fly a transcontinental flight in the U.S.
Contributed to the design of the Moisant Monoplane
Participated in air races, including the 1910 Los Angeles to Newark race
Other People Born on April 25th
Patricia Castell
Argentine actress in film and television
Born
April 25th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1926, an Argentine actress made significant contributions to the film and television industry. Castell appeared in numerous productions throughout her career. Highlights include performances in acclaimed films such as 'Los Olvidados' and television series like 'Cuentos de la Selva'. Her work spanned several decades, showcasing talent and versatility across different roles.
Continue ReadingTheo de Rooij
Cycling manager and former cyclist
Born
April 25th, 1957 68 years ago
Competed in professional cycling and transitioned to management roles within the sport. Served as a directeur sportif for several teams and provided guidance to athletes at various competitions, including major cycling tours. Focused on developing young talent and enhancing team strategies in competitive cycling events.
Continue ReadingAlbert Uderzo
Comic book artist, Asterix series co-creator
Born
April 25th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2020 5 years ago — 92 years old
A comic book artist and writer co-created the Asterix series with René Goscinny. The series, debuting in 1959, features a small Gaul who resists Roman occupation. Contributed to the art and storytelling, significantly shaping the series' direction. After Goscinny's passing in 1977, continued to illustrate and write Asterix comics until 2011, ensuring Asterix's legacy endured. Worked as an illustrator for various children's books and also produced other comics throughout his career.
Continue ReadingZev Siegl
Co-founder of Starbucks Coffee Company
Born
April 25th, 1955 70 years ago
Co-founded a coffee company in 1971, which became a global brand. Played a significant role in establishing store concepts and branding strategies. Helped develop the growth trajectory that transformed coffee culture, contributing to the company's expansion across the United States and around the world.
Continue ReadingSara Baras
Spanish flamenco dancer and choreographer
Born
April 25th, 1971 54 years ago
A celebrated flamenco dancer and choreographer, gained recognition in the world of dance for her artistic style and innovative performances. Established a prominent career in Spain and internationally, characterized by a blend of traditional flamenco with contemporary elements. Founded her own dance company, which has toured extensively, delivering performances that showcase the richness of flamenco artistry. Created numerous productions that received critical acclaim and awards.
Continue ReadingGeorge Nēpia
Rugby player and referee in New Zealand
Born
April 25th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1986 39 years ago — 81 years old
Played rugby union for the New Zealand national team, known as the All Blacks, between 1924 and 1930. Participated in the first-ever test match against the British and Irish Lions in 1930. After retiring as a player, worked as a referee in rugby matches, contributing to the sport in different capacities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Barry Lane
Professional Golfer with numerous titles
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2022 3 years ago — 62 years old
A professional golfer who enjoyed a successful career primarily in the European Tour and Champions Tour. Achieved notable success in the 1990s and 2000s, securing multiple tournament victories. Lane had a reputation for consistency on the course and represented England internationally, including participation in the World Cup of Golf. His career spanned over three decades, during which he competed against many top players in the sport.
Continue ReadingThomas Erastus
Swiss physician and theologian
Born
September 7th, 1524 501 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1583 442 years ago — 59 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and theology during the Reformation. Practiced as a physician in Basel, emphasizing the importance of empirical observation in medical practice. Engaged in theological debates, particularly in relation to the authority of the church and the role of civil government in ecclesiastical matters. Authored works that sought to bridge the gap between Protestant doctrine and civil authority, advocating for the separation of church and state functions. Influence extended into discussions on the intersection of faith and reason, shaping early thoughts on the integration of scientific inquiry within Christian contexts.
Continue ReadingEileen Heckart
American actress in stage and film
Born
March 29th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2001 24 years ago — 82 years old
An actress with a career spanning over six decades in film, television, and theater. Gained prominence for roles in the Broadway production of 'The Dark at the Top of the Stairs' and the film 'Butterflies Are Free'. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in 'Butterflies Are Free'. Appeared in multiple television series, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Love Boat'.
Continue ReadingValerian Wellesley
British Duke, politician, and soldier
Born
July 2nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2014 11 years ago — 99 years old
Served as the 8th Duke of Wellington, holding a prominent role in the House of Lords. Participated in military service during World War II, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Engaged in politics, advocating for various causes and contributing to legislative discussions. Inherited the title of Duke in 1943, representing a historic lineage linked to the Battle of Waterloo. Maintained a lifelong connection to the family estate at Stratfield Saye, preserving the legacy of the Wellington family.
Continue ReadingMargaret, Countess of Anjou
Noblewoman and Countess of Anjou
Born
1273 753 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1299 726 years ago — 26 years old
Born in the 13th century, held the title of Countess of Anjou through marriage. Became the mother of notable descendants who played significant roles in the European aristocracy. Contributed to alliances and political relations between various noble houses. The marriage strengthened connections between England and France during a tumultuous period in history.
Continue ReadingOttokar III of Styria
Duke of Styria and noted ruler
Born
1124 902 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1164 861 years ago — 40 years old
Ruled as Duke of Styria from 1122 until death in 1164. Established the foundations for the later Duchy of Styria. Strengthened the power of the duchy and engaged in territorial expansion during the period. Played a significant role in regional politics and alliances within the Holy Roman Empire.
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