Ricky Berens
American swimmer and Olympic gold medalist
Swam for the University of Texas and competed as a member of the U.S. national team. Contributed to multiple relay victories, excelling in freestyle and individual medley events. Won two gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics as part of the 4x100 meter freestyle and 4x200 meter freestyle relays. Also secured a bronze medal in the 200 meter freestyle at the 2012 London Olympics. After retirement, remained involved in the sport through coaching and mentoring.
Gold medalist in 4x100 meter freestyle relay at 2008 Olympics
Gold medalist in 4x200 meter freestyle relay at 2008 Olympics
Bronze medalist in 200 meter freestyle at 2012 Olympics
Other People Born on April 21st
Licio Gelli
Italian financer of Propaganda Due
Born
April 21st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 96 years old
A financier associated with a clandestine Masonic lodge, heavily involved in Italian conspiracy and political maneuvering during the Cold War. Established the Propaganda Due (P2) lodge, which gained notoriety for its connections to various political figures, financial institutions, and illegal activities. The activities and influence of P2 were pivotal during a tumultuous period in Italian history, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. Gelli's role in the lodge included orchestrating efforts that tied together interests across politics, business, and organized crime, causing significant political scandals and controversies in Italy.
Continue ReadingEve Arnold
Photographer and journalist recognized for portraiture
Born
April 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 99 years old
Achieved acclaim as a documentary photographer and photojournalist. Worked extensively with publications such as Magnum Photos and Life magazine. Captured intimate portraits of notable subjects including Marilyn Monroe and the working-class population in America. Published several photography books and was recognized for contributions to the field of photojournalism.
Continue ReadingEdwin Stanton Porter
Film director of 'The Great Train Robbery'
Born
April 21st, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 71 years old
A pivotal figure in early cinema, directed and produced several influential silent films. Gained recognition primarily for 'The Great Train Robbery' in 1903, which is considered one of the first narrative films in history. Worked with Thomas Edison’s studio, contributing to the production of various early short films and leveraging innovative techniques that laid groundwork for modern filmmaking. Later established his own production company and continued to shape the industry.
Continue ReadingJohn Muir
Environmentalist and author of 'Our National Parks'
Born
April 21st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1914 110 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Scotland and later moving to the United States, contributions to conservation and environmental activism began in the late 19th century. Established the Sierra Club in 1892, advocating for the preservation of wilderness areas in the United States. Writings included 'The Mountains of California' and 'Our National Parks', emphasizing the importance of natural landscapes. Instrumental in the creation of several national parks, including Yosemite and Sequoia. Efforts significantly influenced public opinion on environmental preservation.
Continue ReadingPat Brown
American politician, 32nd Governor of California
Born
April 21st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 32nd Governor of California from 1959 to 1967. Implemented significant policy reforms in education and water management. Advocated for the construction of the California State Water Project, which aimed to improve water supply and distribution across the state. His administration focused on civil rights and economic growth. Before his governorship, practiced law and served as the District Attorney of San Francisco.
Continue ReadingMaurice Wilson
English soldier and mountaineer
Born
April 21st, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 36 years old
Born in 1898, served as a soldier in World War I, later becoming an accomplished pilot. In 1934, aimed to summit Mount Everest, undertaking a solo expedition without supplemental oxygen. The journey was marked by challenges, ultimately resulting in disappearance on the mountain.
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