Peter Gethin
English racing driver with GP wins
Competitor in Formula One during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Achieved three Grand Prix victories in 1971, including a win at the Italian Grand Prix, which marked a highlight of his racing career. Participated in 39 Grands Prix, demonstrating significant skill in various races across Europe, often driving for teams such as BRM and McLaren. Also competed in endurance racing, securing strong performances in prestigious events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Transitioned into commentator roles after retiring from racing, sharing insights on motorsport.
Won the 1971 Italian Grand Prix
Achieved three Formula One victories
Competed in 24 Hours of Le Mans
Other People Born on February 21st
Wendy
South Korean singer; Red Velvet member
Born
February 21st, 1994 31 years ago
A prominent South Korean singer, a member of the girl group Red Velvet. Debuted with the group in 2014 under SM Entertainment, contributing to their distinctive sound and style. The group achieved significant commercial success both in South Korea and internationally. Released solo projects, showcasing versatility and vocal talent. Received accolades for performances and contributions to the music industry.
Continue ReadingVitaly Churkin
Russian Ambassador to the UN
Born
February 21st, 1952 73 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2017 8 years ago — 64 years old
Served as Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the United Nations from 2006 until 2017. Played a significant role in various international discussions, notably regarding the Syrian conflict and Ukraine. Had a focus on promoting Russia's stance on global issues and was involved in several key resolutions during his tenure. Passed away while still holding the ambassadorship.
Continue ReadingCelia Lovsky
Austrian-American actress in film and TV
Born
February 21st, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Austria, this actress gained prominence in American cinema. She performed in several films and television series, achieving recognition for various roles throughout her career. Notably, she participated in the 1950s television series "Star Trek" and the classic film "The Ten Commandments." With a talent for both drama and character acting, her contributions spanned several decades and showcased her range as a performer. Later in life, she continued to be involved in acting projects until her retirement.
Continue ReadingScott Kelly
American astronaut, ISS commander
Born
February 21st, 1964 61 years ago
Served as a NASA astronaut with notable missions aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Completed a record-setting 340 consecutive days in space during the One-Year Mission, which provided valuable research on the effects of long-duration spaceflight on the human body. Worked on multiple space shuttle missions and contributed to the assembly and maintenance of the ISS. Is a retired U.S. Navy captain and has flown on four spaceflights, accumulating over 520 total days in space throughout an illustrious career.
Continue ReadingFranklin Gutiérrez
Venezuelan baseball outfielder
Born
February 21st, 1983 42 years ago
Professional baseball player from Venezuela played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball (MLB). Made his MLB debut in 2005 and played for several teams, including the Seattle Mariners and Cleveland Indians. Renowned for excellent defensive skills and contributions to team success. Held a strong reputation for his speed and agility on the field.
Continue ReadingWilliam Petersen
Actor and producer of 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation'
Born
February 21st, 1953 72 years ago
An American actor and producer, celebrated for a leading role in the television series 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation', which aired from 2000 to 2015. Also starred in the film 'To Live and Die in L.A.' and the TV movie 'The Beast'. In addition to acting, involved in production roles in various projects. Recognized for contributions to the crime drama genre through both performance and production efforts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 5th
Elisabeth Murdoch
Philanthropist and community leader
Born
February 8th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 103 years old
Born in Australia in 1909, a philanthropist dedicated to various charitable endeavors. In 1962, established the Elisabeth Murdoch Foundation to support arts, education, health, and welfare initiatives. Contributed to the development of the Australian arts scene and supported various cultural institutions. Played a key role in empowering women and advancing education through numerous charitable projects throughout her life.
Continue ReadingGwen Harwood
Australian poet and playwright with acclaim
Born
June 8th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 75 years old
Prominent in Australian literature, contributed significantly through poetry and theatrical works. Key poems include 'In the Park' and 'The Lion's Bride', both showcasing themes of identity and the human experience. Authored several plays, enhancing the cultural landscape of Australia. Achieved notable recognition, including winning the prestigious Patrick White Award and the Grace Leven Prize. Engaged in editing and literary criticism, shaping contemporary Australian poetic forms and expressions. Her works have been studied in various academic settings, inspiring new generations of writers.
Continue ReadingDave Brubeck
Jazz pianist and composer of 'Take Five'
Born
December 6th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributions spanned several decades, resulting in a fusion of contrasting musical elements. Advanced the popularity of jazz with unique time signatures and innovative improvisation techniques. Founded the Dave Brubeck Quartet, which gained widespread acclaim during the 1950s and 1960s. The album 'Time Out', featuring the hit 'Take Five', became one of the best-selling jazz albums, noted for its distinctive 5/4 time signature. Conducted numerous collaborations with orchestras and released over 50 albums throughout a prolific career.
Continue ReadingErnest C. Brace
American captain and pilot
Born
August 15th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
Served as a captain and pilot in the United States Navy. Participated in the Vietnam War, where a mission resulted in an aircraft crash and subsequent capture by North Vietnamese forces. Spent more than seven years as a prisoner of war. Returned to the U.S. after being released in 1973. Contributed to international military relations as a pilot and instructor after retirement.
Continue ReadingGaspard Bauhin
Swiss botanist and author of Pinax.
Born
January 17th, 1560 465 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1624 401 years ago — 64 years old
Significant contributions to botanical nomenclature and classification took place, establishing the basis for modern taxonomy. Published "Pinax Theatri Botanici," which listed more than 6,000 plants and proposed a systematic way to classify them. Acted as a professor of medicine at the University of Basel, where studies in botany and medicinal plants flourished. Developed extensive illustrations and descriptions of plants, influencing later naturalists and botanists.
Continue ReadingClair Cameron Patterson
Geochemist, developed uranium-lead dating
Born
June 22nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 73 years old
A geochemist made significant contributions to the field of geochronology. Developed the uranium-lead dating technique that established the age of the Earth as 4.5 billion years. Conducted research on lead contamination and its effects on human health. Advocated for environmental protection and helped raise awareness about lead in the environment, influencing public policy and regulation.
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