Joseph Kittinger

American test pilot and balloonist

Joseph Kittinger - Explorers & Adventurers born July 27th, 1928
Born
Died

2022
4 years ago — 94 years old

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

United States

Links & References

Held the record for the highest free-fall parachute jump. In 1960, completed the Excelsior III jump from an altitude of 102,800 feet, breaking the sound barrier during descent. This record stood for over 50 years. Served in the United States Air Force and contributed to various test flights and aeronautical research, influencing advancements in pilot safety and high-altitude flight.

Completed the highest free-fall parachute jump

Broke the sound barrier during descent

Participated in the U.S. Air Force's Project Excelsior

Other People Born on July 27th

Edward Montagu

1st Earl of Sandwich and naval commander
Born
July 27th, 1625 401 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1671 355 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1625, this individual served as a prominent naval commander and statesman in England. He played a significant role during the English Civil War, aligning with the Parliamentary side. In 1660, he was appointed as one of the military leaders for the Restoration of King Charles II. His naval career included being the Lord of the Admiralty, where he oversaw key naval strategies and operations that contributed to England's maritime strength. The 1st Earl of Sandwich is also linked to the creation of the sandwich, a popular food item that bears his title, though the exact origins of the name remain debated.

Continue Reading

Diane Webber

Model and actress from 'The Naked City'
Born
July 27th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 76 years old

Engaged in modeling, dancing, and acting from the mid-20th century. Featured as a pin-up and appeared in several publications. Gained recognition for the role in the television series 'The Naked City'. Worked with various filmmakers and contributed to the entertainment industry during her career.

Continue Reading

Ernst May

Architect and urban planner in Germany
Born
July 27th, 1886 140 years ago
Died
1970 56 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Germany, an architect and urban planner specialized in modernist architecture. Played a key role in urban planning during the Weimar Republic. Instrumental in the development of the Frankfurt Kitchen, which revolutionized kitchen design. Overseen numerous housing projects aimed at addressing the post-World War I housing crisis in Germany. Advocated for the principles of functionalism in architecture. His work during the 1920s significantly influenced residential building design in Germany.

Continue Reading

Jonathan Rhys Meyers

Irish actor in 'The Tudors'
Born
July 27th, 1977 49 years ago

Born in 1977, this Irish actor gained prominence for his role as King Henry VIII in the television series 'The Tudors'. He started his acting career in the late 1990s and appeared in several films and television shows. Some of his notable works include 'Match Point', directed by Woody Allen, and the film 'August Rush'. He has received several award nominations throughout his career for his performances. In addition to acting, he has been involved in music and has released singles.

Continue Reading

Lucrezia Crivelli

Mistress of Ludovico Sforza
Born
July 27th, 1452 574 years ago
Died
1508 518 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1452, this individual served as the mistress of Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan. Lucrezia became a prominent figure in the Milanese court during the Renaissance, influencing art and culture through her relationships. She was often depicted in artworks and served as a muse for various artists of the time.

Continue Reading

Marielle Franco

Brazilian politician and human rights activist
Born
July 27th, 1979 47 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2018 8 years ago — 38 years old

A politician and activist in Brazil, focused on issues of social justice, human rights, and police violence. Served as a city councilor in Rio de Janeiro, advocating for marginalized communities and promoting equality. Gained national and international attention for her outspoken criticism of state violence and systemic discrimination. Tragically assassinated in 2018, prompting widespread protests and calls for justice.

Continue Reading