Kenneth S. Kleinknecht
NASA manager and Apollo program leader
Born
July 24th, 1919
106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2007
17 years ago — 88 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as a NASA manager, overseeing the Apollo program and lunar missions from the early 1960s through the 1970s. Directed efforts that led to successful moon landings, particularly the historic Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Played a crucial role in the development and management of the Saturn V launch vehicle, which enabled human space exploration. Also held positions in various engineering and managerial roles within NASA, contributing to advancements in space technology and exploration.
Oversaw the Apollo program
Managed the Saturn V launch vehicle development
Contributed to Apollo 11 moon landing success
Other People Born on July 24th
Jan Gotlib Bloch
A prominent Polish theorist and peace activist contributed extensively to the discourse on international relations and pacifism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Authored several works discussing the necessity of disarmament and the consequences of war, particularly emphasizing the role of economic factors in sustaining conflicts. Founded the International Peace Society in 1891, advocating for peaceful resolutions to international disputes. Engaged with various movements promoting peace and cooperation among nations, emphasizing diplomacy over military action.
Continue ReadingErmanno Olmi
An Italian director, screenwriter, and cinematographer, contributed significantly to the Italian cinema landscape. Began career in the 1950s as a documentarian and gradually transitioned to feature films. Gained acclaim with the 1978 film 'The Tree of Wooden Clogs', which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Best recognized for a style that merged realism with a poetic sensibility, often depicting the lives of ordinary people. Continued to create films that reflected social issues and human experiences until late in life.
Continue ReadingDoug Bollinger
Debuted in international cricket in 2005, competing primarily as a fast bowler. Represented Australia in all formats of the game, achieving significant recognition during his career. Played in multiple Test matches, One Day Internationals, and Twenty20 Internationals. Notable for his impressive wicket-taking abilities and impactful performances in domestic cricket leagues.
Continue ReadingCharlie Crist
Born in 1956, this individual served as the 44th Governor of Florida from 2007 to 2011. Initially a member of the Republican Party, later switched affiliation to the Democratic Party. Before governorship, held various positions including state legislator and Attorney General of Florida. Entered the 2014 gubernatorial race as a Democrat, after previously serving as a Republican governor. Became a prominent figure in Florida politics with significant involvement in legislative matters.
Continue ReadingFrank Wedekind
An influential playwright and author, contributed significantly to the development of modern drama. Played a critical role in the expressionist movement with works that explore themes of sexuality, social norms, and personal liberation. Most recognized for the plays 'Spring Awakening' and 'Lulu'. These works challenged societal conventions and provided a platform for discussing complex human emotions and experiences. Often faced controversy due to explicit content and thematic boldness.
Continue ReadingAndrew Gaze
A prominent figure in Australian basketball, played for the Melbourne Tigers in the National Basketball League (NBL) and represented Australia in international competitions. Achieved significant success at both the club and national levels, with a standout career that includes multiple NBL championships. Transitioned to a successful career in sports broadcasting and commentary, providing insights into the game and its players.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Trofim Lysenko
Born in 1898, a biologist and agronomist achieved prominence in the Soviet Union through the promotion of Lysenkoism, which rejected Mendelian genetics in favor of a theory based on the inheritance of acquired characteristics. This approach aligned with Marxist ideology and gained favor within Soviet agricultural policies during the 1930s and 1940s. The individual's influence led to widespread adoption of practices that prioritized ideological conformity over scientific rigor, resulting in significant agricultural failures and setbacks in genetics research. Active in academia and government, this figure's legacy is marked by controversies surrounding the implications of applied Lysenkoist policies in the Soviet Union.
Continue ReadingCharles Jennens
An English landowner and prominent patron of the arts, contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of the 18th century. Actively supported composers and musicians, fostering their creative endeavors. Closely associated with George Frideric Handel, collaborated on several projects that shaped the musical culture of the time, including the creation of oratorios. Maintained a keen interest in literature and music, promoting various artistic expressions.
Continue ReadingChalmers Johnson
An American scholar and author contributed to the fields of political science and international relations. Focused on critique of U.S. foreign policy and military expansion, particularly through the lens of the consequences borne by covert operations. Concept of 'blowback', as articulated in the book of the same name, addressed unforeseen repercussions of American actions abroad. Made notable contributions to discussions regarding the implications of globalization and empire.
Continue ReadingEleanor of Scotland
Born around 1433, Eleanor of Scotland was a princess of Scotland and member of the House of Stewart. As the daughter of King James I of Scotland and Joan Beaufort, she played a significant role in Scottish politics and alliances through her marriage. Eleanor married the influential and powerful Lord of the Isles, making her a key figure in the tumultuous political landscape of the 15th century. Her marriage strengthened ties between the royal family and the powerful Clannranald and Macdonald clans, which was significant in the context of Scottish history. Eleanor's lineage and marriage positioned her as a crucial figure in clan relations during a time of conflict and power struggles in Scotland.
Continue ReadingWillem de Sitter
Born in 1872, contributions to cosmology established a foundation for modern astronomical theory. Developed models that described the universe's structure and behavior. His work on general relativity led to significant insights in the field of theoretical physics. In addition, served as the president of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, influencing scientific research in the Netherlands. Recognized for the de Sitter space, which became essential for understanding cosmic phenomena.
Continue ReadingKonstantinos Stephanopoulos
A significant figure in Greek politics, served as the 6th President of Greece from 1995 to 2005. In his younger years, practiced law and actively participated in the political scene. Elected to the Hellenic Parliament multiple times and held ministerial positions before presidency. Focused on a pro-European agenda and worked towards modernizing Greece's political landscape. Promoted diplomacy and national unity during tenure. Continued to influence Greek politics even after leaving office.
Continue Reading