Nancy Bird Walton
Australian aviator and pioneer pilot

Born
1915
110 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2009
16 years ago — 94 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Australia
Links & References
An aviator and pioneer in Australian aviation, contributions included establishing a female presence in a male-dominated field during the early 20th century. Acquired a pilot's license in 1933, at the age of 19, and became the youngest woman in the world to achieve this feat. In 1934, founded the Women's Air Training Corps to encourage women to pursue flying. During World War II, served as a transport pilot and provided valuable assistance to the Royal Australian Air Force. Established the Nancy Bird Walton Scholarship to support aspiring female pilots after her retirement. Her legacy is remembered as a trailblazer in the aviation industry.
First female commercial pilot in Australia
Established the Women's Air Training Corps
Contributed as a transport pilot during WWII
Other People Who Died on January 13th
W. D. Snodgrass
Born in 1926, this poet gained recognition for personal and confessional poetry. The collection 'Heart's Needle' won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1960, highlighting themes of loss and memory. Contributions to the field included numerous publications in various literary magazines, as well as participation in academia as a teacher. Influence extended to the next generation of poets through workshops and mentorship.
Continue ReadingSophie Taeuber-Arp
Significant contributions were made to the Dada movement and abstract art. Worked in various media, including painting, sculpture, and textile design. Co-founded the group 'L'Esprit Nouveau', advocating for modern art. Created notable works such as 'Composition with Squares' and textile works that incorporated geometric shapes into fabric design. Engaged in creating stage designs and costumes, notably for the ballet 'Mercure'.
Continue ReadingAlexander Stepanovich Popov
Contributed significantly to the development of electromagnetic technology. Conducted experiments that led to the invention of the radio. Demonstrated transmission of radio waves in 1895, showcasing wireless communication. Established principles of radio wave transmission that laid groundwork for future communication technologies.
Continue ReadingDick Gautier
An actor and comedian, achieved fame for roles in television and film during the 1960s and 1970s. Best remembered for playing Hymie the Robot in the series 'Get Smart'. Also had a successful stage career and contributed to the creation of character voices in various animated shows. Engaged in various television shows throughout a long career.
Continue ReadingDonny Hathaway
This American singer-songwriter gained recognition for contributions to soul and R&B music during the 1970s. His collaboration with Roberta Flack on the song 'Where Is the Love' achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. Hathaway released acclaimed albums, including 'Everything Is Everything' and 'Donny Hathaway,' which showcased exceptional vocal talent and songwriting skills. His distinctive style combined elements of jazz, gospel, and blues. Hathaway faced mental health challenges throughout his life, which were linked to his untimely death in 1979.
Continue ReadingAlexandre Ribot
Served as Prime Minister of France on multiple occasions and was active in French politics during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Contributed to various government reforms and policies during his terms. Also held significant positions within the French government, influencing national policies and political strategies.
Continue Reading