Paul MacCready
American engineer and businessman
An engineer and businessman, founded AeroVironment which designed and developed innovative aircrafts. Designed the Gossamer Albatross, the first human-powered aircraft to cross the English Channel. Contributed to fields of aerodynamics and renewable energy through various projects and prototypes.
Founded AeroVironment
Designed Gossamer Albatross
Other People Born on September 29th
Eddie Tolan
American sprinter, 1920 Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
September 29th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1967 59 years ago — 58 years old
Achieved remarkable success as a sprinter in the early 20th century. Competed in the 1920 Summer Olympics, winning two gold medals in the 100-meter and 200-meter races. Set several records during his athletic career, including a world record in the 100 meters. After retiring from athletics, transitioned into education, contributing to the development of future generations through teaching and coaching.
Continue ReadingSasha Lane
American actress in 'American Honey'
Born
September 29th, 1995 30 years ago
An actress gained recognition through a breakout role in the film 'American Honey'. This role showcased a young woman embarking on a road trip across America with a group of misfit teens. Lane's performance in the film garnered critical acclaim and led to further opportunities in the industry. Lane has been involved in projects that reflect themes of youth and rebellion, contributing to a unique presence in contemporary cinema.
Continue ReadingHenry Bennett
American lawyer and politician
Born
September 29th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1868 158 years ago — 59 years old
Served as a lawyer and politician in the United States. Held significant roles in state government and local legal matters. Participated actively in political discussions and legal reforms during the mid-19th century. Contributed to various legislative initiatives and local governance.
Continue ReadingMadeline Kahn
Actress in 'Blazing Saddles' and 'Young Frankenstein'
Born
September 29th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1999 26 years ago — 57 years old
An American actress, comedian, and singer, made contributions to film and theater with a unique blend of humor and talent. Achieved significant recognition for performances in 'Blazing Saddles' and 'Young Frankenstein'. Kahn received multiple awards, including two Primetime Emmy Awards, reflecting her excellence in television. Additionally, Kahn earned a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her work in 'The Sisters Rosensweig'. Kahn's career spanned several decades, with performances that showcased her distinctive voice and comedic timing. She continued to perform in various television shows and films until her death in 1999.
Continue ReadingBrenda Marshall
Actress in major films including 'Pride of the Marines'
Born
September 29th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1992 33 years ago — 76 years old
An American actress born in 1915, had a prominent career in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'Pride of the Marines' and 'The Man I Love'. Worked alongside notable actors and directors of the era. Transitioned from film to television later in her career.
Continue ReadingPeter D. Mitchell
Biochemist and Nobel Laureate
Born
September 29th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1992 34 years ago — 72 years old
Contributed significantly to biochemistry and cellular biology. Developed the chemiosmotic theory, which describes how ATP is produced in cells through a proton gradient across membranes. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1978 for this work, which has greatly advanced the understanding of biological energy production. Held academic positions and was involved in various research initiatives throughout a notable career in science.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 28th
Louis the German
Frankish king and ruler of East Francia
Died
August 28th, 876 1149 years ago — None years old
Born in 804, ruled as a king of East Francia from 843 until death in 876. Son of Louis the Pious and a significant historical figure in the Carolingian dynasty. Played a crucial role in the partition of the Carolingian Empire, which followed the Treaty of Verdun. Managed to consolidate power in the eastern territories, leading efforts in administration and military campaigns in defense against external threats. Worked to maintain stability in his realm during a period marked by fragmentation and conflict among the descendants of Charlemagne.
Continue ReadingHal Finney
Cryptographer and Bitcoin pioneer
Born
1956 70 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 58 years old
Contributed to the development of cryptographic systems and digital currencies. Played a significant role in the early days of Bitcoin, being the first person to receive a Bitcoin transaction from its creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Developed the reusable proof of work concept, which became fundamental to Bitcoin's operation. Involved in various projects in the field of cryptography and privacy technologies, influencing future developments in those areas.
Continue ReadingShulamith Firestone
Feminist author and activist
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2012 13 years ago — 67 years old
An influential figure in the feminist movement, produced significant theoretical works focusing on women's liberation. Published major text titled 'The Dialectic of Sex' in 1970, which critiqued patriarchy and proposed revolutionary changes to gender roles. Engaged in organizing efforts within feminist groups and was a founding member of the feminist group the New York Radical Women. Advocated for issues related to women's rights and reproductive freedom throughout her career.
Continue ReadingFrancis Vere
English governor and military general
Died
August 28th, 1609 416 years ago — None years old
Served as a military general and governor during the late 16th century. Commanded English forces in the Netherlands earning a reputation for strategic military leadership against Spanish troops. Played a significant role in the Anglo-Spanish War, particularly in the Low Countries. Later appointed governor of Brill in 1588, contributing to English interests in the region. Published military treatises that influenced subsequent military thinking.
Continue ReadingJohn Anthony Walker
American soldier and spy
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2014 11 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a U.S. Navy signalman and later engaged in espionage activities on behalf of the Soviet Union. Walker recruited family members and friends to assist in the espionage operation, providing classified information over several years. His actions compromised naval intelligence operations and caused a significant breach of security for the United States. Arrested in 1985, he was sentenced to life in prison for his espionage activities.
Continue ReadingKōken
Emperor of Japan during Nara Period
Died
August 28th, 770 1255 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the throne as a young ruler, Kōken was the 45th emperor of Japan. Reigning during a time of consolidation and cultural development, established the framework for the Nara Period's prosperity. Known for promoting Buddhism and supporting the compilation of various historical texts. Later, abdicated in favor of Emperor Junnin but returned to power shortly after, ruling again until death.
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