Mary Jackson
Mathematician and aerospace engineer
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Began career as a mathematician and aerospace engineer at NASA, contributing to the United States space program. Worked in the segregated West Area Computers division at Langley Research Center. Focused on aerodynamics and published significant research in the fields of fluid dynamics and flight paths. Later became the first African-American female engineer at NASA, breaking barriers for women in engineering. Advocated for women in STEM fields throughout career.
First African-American female engineer at NASA
Contributed to aerodynamics research
Other People Born on April 9th
Theobald Boehm
Flutist and composer of Boehm system
Born
April 9th, 1794 232 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1881 144 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent flutist and composer, contributed significantly to the development of the modern flute. Developed the Boehm system of flute design, which enhanced the instrument's playability and intonation. Composed various works for flute, elevating its status in the classical music scene. His innovations in flute construction are still used by modern flutists.
Continue ReadingAllen Jenkins
American actor and singer in film musicals
Born
April 9th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1974 51 years ago — 74 years old
An actor and singer with a career spanning several decades, became recognized for roles in film and stage productions. Gained prominence through performances in musicals and comedies, especially in the 1930s and 1940s. Worked extensively with Warner Bros. and appeared in numerous films including the 'The Roaring Twenties' and 'The East Side Kid' series. Also lent vocal talents to various musical films, contributing to the popularity of the genre during that era.
Continue ReadingStephen Paddock
Mass murderer in Las Vegas shooting
Born
April 9th, 1953 73 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1953, engaged in various occupations and activities throughout life. Became widely recognized for involvement in the 2017 Las Vegas shooting, which resulted in the deaths of 58 individuals and injuries to hundreds more. The attack occurred during a music festival, making it one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history. Investigations revealed a premeditated plan, and law enforcement found a stockpile of firearms in the perpetrator's hotel room.
Continue ReadingErich Ludendorff
German military leader and political figure
Born
April 9th, 1865 161 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1937 88 years ago — 72 years old
Became a prominent German general during World War I, serving as the chief of staff of the German Army. Implemented significant military strategies that influenced the course of the war. After the war, served in various political roles and was involved in post-war German politics, including participation in nationalist movements and opposition to the Weimar Republic. Authored several works that outlined his military strategies and theories.
Continue ReadingHugh Hefner
Publisher and founder of Playboy
Born
April 9th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2017 8 years ago — 91 years old
Established Playboy Enterprises in 1953, which revolutionized men's magazines and popular culture. Hefner launched the iconic Playboy magazine featuring nude photography and articles on various topics, including interviews with influential figures. The magazine became a symbol of the sexual revolution in the 1960s and 1970s. Hefner also expanded the brand into television and lifestyle, influencing media and entertainment.
Continue ReadingMichel Simon
Actor in 'Boudu Saved from Drowning'
Born
April 9th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1975 50 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1895, an actor emerged as a prominent figure in European cinema during the 20th century. With a career spanning several decades, performances included roles in notable films such as 'Boudu Saved from Drowning' and 'The Golden Coach.' Also featured in 'The Devil in the Flesh' and 'The Human Beast,' became recognized for a distinctive style that blended realism with theatricality. Contributions to the French film industry were significant during a period of transformation in cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 10th
Otis Redding
Soul singer-songwriter with classic hits
Born
September 9th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1967 58 years ago — 26 years old
A prominent figure in the soul music genre, contributions included powerful vocal performances and emotive songwriting. Redding's career began in the early 1960s, gaining attention with songs that featured a blend of gospel influences and rhythm and blues. The release of the iconic track 'Try a Little Tenderness' in 1966 solidified his position in the music scene. Other major hits such as '(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay' showcased his ability to convey deep emotion through music. Tragically, a plane crash in 1967 cut his life short, yet his influence on subsequent artists and the genre remains significant.
Continue ReadingSean McClory
Actor in 'The Longest Day' and 'The Last Hurrah'
Born
March 8th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1924, an Irish-American actor and director, played significant roles in both film and television. Appeared in 'The Longest Day,' a World War II epic film, and in 'The Last Hurrah,' showcasing skills in portraying complex characters. Directed various theater productions, contributing to the performing arts with a dedication to storytelling. Active in the industry for several decades, displayed versatility across genres and formats.
Continue ReadingDamon Runyon
American newspaperman and short story writer
Born
October 4th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1946 79 years ago — 66 years old
An influential newspaperman and short story writer contributed significantly to the literary scene in the early 20th century. Work primarily appeared in the New York Evening News, where vivid portrayals of Broadway life captured the essence of the era. Short stories often featured colorful characters, many of which became iconic representations of New York's theatrical underbelly. The collection 'Runyon on Broadway' compiled these narratives, becoming a staple in American literature. Also, stories inspired the hit musical 'Guys and Dolls', which highlighted the popularity and cultural significance of his work.
Continue ReadingFranjo Tuđman
Croatian historian and politician, 1st President
Born
May 14th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1999 26 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in Croatian history and politics, this individual served as the first President of Croatia from 1990 to 1999. A historian by training, significant contributions included advocating for Croatian independence from Yugoslavia. Played a crucial role during the Croatian War of Independence, shaping the new nation's political landscape and institutions. His presidency was marked by efforts to establish Croatia as a sovereign state and navigate post-war recovery.
Continue ReadingAlfred Nobel
Chemist and engineer, founded Nobel Prize
Born
1833 193 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1896 129 years ago — 63 years old
A Swedish chemist and engineer developed dynamite, a safer alternative to nitroglycerin for construction and demolition. Nobel's invention significantly advanced engineering and mining industries. Following personal reflections on the consequences of his inventions, he established the Nobel Prizes in his will. This annual series of awards recognizes excellence in various fields including physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace efforts, shaping the landscape of global accolades. The prizes have been awarded since 1901 and continue to honor significant contributions to humanity.
Continue ReadingGreta Kempton
Austrian-American painter with notable works
Born
March 22nd, 1901 125 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1991 34 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Austria, became an American painter and portrait artist. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. Emigrated to the United States in 1926, where she gained recognition for her portraits. Worked in various mediums, including oils and watercolors. Her subjects included notable figures in politics and the arts. Famed for her ability to capture likeness and personality in her work. Exhibited at prestigious venues, contributing to the American art scene.
Continue Reading