Lee Chong Wei
Badminton player and Olympic medalist
Born in Malaysia, this badminton player excelled in the sport from the early 2000s and quickly rose to prominence. Achieved the world number one ranking for a record 349 weeks. Competed in three consecutive Olympic Games, securing a silver medal in men's singles at both the 2008 Beijing and 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Contributed significantly to Malaysia's success in badminton, earning numerous titles and accolades throughout a distinguished career before retiring in 2019.
Achieved world number one ranking for 349 weeks
Won silver medal at 2008 and 2016 Olympics
Claimed multiple All England Open Badminton Championships
Other People Born on October 21st
Hongwu Emperor of China
First Ming Dynasty Emperor
Born
October 21st, 1328 698 years ago
Died
1398 628 years ago — 70 years old
Ascended the throne as the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty in 1368 after leading a successful rebellion against the Yuan Dynasty. Established the Ming government and implemented major reforms in agriculture, trade, and military organization. Promoted Confucian values and centralized power. Known for initiating construction of the Great Wall of China in its current form and reviving the civil service examination system, which emphasized merit over birth. His reign marked the beginning of a significant period in Chinese history characterized by economic prosperity and cultural flourishing.
Continue ReadingJean Bart
Admiral and naval commander of France
Born
October 21st, 1650 376 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1702 324 years ago — 51 years old
Served as a French admiral during the late 17th century. Played a significant role in naval battles against the Dutch and the English during the Nine Years' War. Prominent in blockading enemy ports and capturing enemy ships, Bart was known for his daring raids along the coasts of England and the Spanish Netherlands. His naval strategies contributed to several French victories, enhancing his reputation as a skilled commander. After his death, he was celebrated as a national hero in France.
Continue ReadingCarl Brewer
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
October 21st, 1938 88 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2001 25 years ago — 62 years old
An esteemed ice hockey player and coach, played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, and St. Louis Blues during an extensive professional career. Contributed to the Maple Leafs' winning the Stanley Cup in 1962. Transitioned into coaching after his playing career, influencing new generations of players.
Continue ReadingFrances FitzGerald
American journalist and author of books
Born
October 21st, 1940 86 years ago
A journalist and author, focused on the Vietnam War and American culture. Wrote the influential book 'Fire in the Lake: The Vietnamese and the Americans in Vietnam', which explored the history and impact of the Vietnam War. Contributed to various publications, including The New York Times and The New York Review of Books. FitzGerald's work often examined the complexities of American life and culture, shedding light on critical historical moments. Received the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction in 1973 for her writing.
Continue ReadingPhillip Price
Welsh golfer with PGA Tour victories
Born
October 21st, 1966 60 years ago
Competed on the European Tour and PGA Tour during a professional golf career. Achieved notable success in 2002, winning the BMW Championship. Represented Wales in international competitions, including the World Cup of Golf. Also engaged in coaching and mentoring younger golfers after retirement.
Continue ReadingJoachim Ernest
Prince of Anhalt with territorial rule
Born
October 21st, 1536 490 years ago
Died
1586 440 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1536, held the title of Prince of Anhalt. Played a significant role in the governance of the principality and contributed to the cultural and administrative development of the region. Led the principality through various political changes during the Reformation era. Engaged with other Protestant leaders to solidify alliances and strengthen the position of Anhalt in the context of the Holy Roman Empire.
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