Kenneth S. Kleinknecht
NASA manager and Apollo program leader

Born
July 24th, 1919
105 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
Alexander J. Davis
An architect who contributed significantly to American architecture during the 19th century. Played a key role in the Gothic Revival and Italianate styles. Designed several notable buildings and estates, including the New York City residence of architect Richard Morris Hunt. Engaged in both residential and commercial projects, showcasing an understanding of the landscape and context in designing structures. Established a reputation for elaborate and imaginative design.
Continue ReadingPrincess Charlotte of Prussia
Born in 1860, Princess Charlotte of Prussia became a significant figure in European royalty. She was the daughter of German Emperor Frederick III and Victoria, Princess Royal, which made her a member of the British royal family as well. Charlotte married Prince Ernst August of Hanover, becoming the Duchess of Cumberland and Teviotdale. Through her marriage, she became involved in Hanoverian politics and social activities. Throughout her life, Charlotte attended numerous royal events and maintained her family's connections with other European royals, particularly the British monarchy. Charlotte devoted significant time to charitable endeavors, supporting various cultural and social causes. Her lineage placed her at the center of European royal relations during a transformative period in history.
Continue ReadingErnest Bloch
Born in Switzerland and later becoming an American citizen, a significant career in music composition and education was established. Studies at the Royal Conservatory in Brussels and the École Normale de Musique in Paris laid the foundation. Contribution to American music included teaching at various institutions. Major compositions included 'Schelomo', 'Concerto Grosso No. 1', and 'Spanish Night'. Bloch's work often reflected Jewish themes and traditions, integrating them into classical music. Influences included aspects of folk music, and a commitment to expressing cultural identity through composition marked the overall artistic output.
Continue ReadingChief Dan George
Born in 1899, a Canadian actor and author gained recognition for roles portraying Indigenous characters in film and theater. Career highlights included a prominent role in the film 'Little Big Man,' which showcased the experiences of Native Americans. In addition to acting, contributed to the arts through poetry and writing. Played a significant role in promoting Indigenous rights and culture.
Continue ReadingAlex Katz
Born in 1927, this American painter and sculptor specialized in large-scale portraits and landscapes characterized by a flat, graphic style. Early in the career, a focus on urban life and contemporary themes emerged, drawing inspiration from modern art movements. In the 1960s, established a unique approach that combined elements of abstraction with realist imagery. The use of vibrant colors and simple compositions gained recognition, leading to exhibitions across the United States and internationally. Notably, utilized techniques derived from printmaking to influence painting style significantly. The artist's work often reflects a deep engagement with the visual and cultural aspects of American life while engaging with techniques rooted in earlier art forms, including collage and cutout techniques.
Continue ReadingJohan Georg Forchhammer
Born in 1794, a primary figure in mineralogy and geology. Conducted extensive research on minerals and their compositions, providing foundational contributions to the field. Served as a professor at the University of Copenhagen, influencing future generations of geologists. Authored several key publications, including work on mineral classification and geological surveys of Denmark.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Anton Rubinstein
A prominent pianist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of music education in Russia. Founded the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, the first of its kind in the country, setting a standard for music training. Composed numerous works for piano, orchestras, and operas, with 'The Demon' being among the most recognized. Conducted various orchestras, including engagements with the Berlin Philharmonic and the New York Philharmonic, fostering a rich musical culture in Russia and beyond.
Continue ReadingRobie Macauley
An American editor, novelist, and critic, contributed significantly to literature through editing and writing. Held various editorial positions, influencing many writers. Published several novels that explored themes of identity and dislocation. Also critiqued literary works, providing insights that enriched literary discourse.
Continue ReadingPaula Modersohn-Becker
Born in 1876, a German painter emerged as a significant figure in early 20th-century art. Modersohn-Becker developed a unique style that combined elements of post-impressionism and expressionism. Emphasizing themes of motherhood and the female experience, artwork highlighted the role of women in society. The artist produced notable self-portraits and paintings that featured intimate depictions of rural life. Tragically, her career was cut short when she died at the age of 31, yet several of her works gained recognition posthumously.
Continue ReadingCharles Plumier
A prominent botanist, contributed significantly to the field of botany in the 17th century. Conducted extensive explorations in the Caribbean, documenting various plant species. Published several works, including 'Nova Plantarum Americanarum Genera', which described previously unknown plants. His detailed illustrations and writings greatly advanced botanical knowledge and classification. Developed a systematic approach to the study of plants, influencing future botanical research and exploration.
Continue ReadingJānis Krūmiņš
Played basketball for the Latvian national team in the mid-20th century. Participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where Latvia finished in seventh place. Had a significant career in domestic basketball following the Olympics, contributing to the sport's development in Latvia. Was influential during the peak years of Latvian basketball and left a lasting legacy after the sport's revival in the post-Soviet era.
Continue ReadingAugustine Birrell
A significant figure in British politics, served as a Member of Parliament for West Kensington and as Chief Secretary for Ireland from 1907 to 1916. Contributed to several government reforms and was involved in educational policies. Authored notable works focusing on politics and literature, contributing to the discourse on various social issues during the early 20th century.
Continue Reading