Sally Ride
Astronaut and physicist, first American woman in space
A physicist and astronaut made history as the first American woman in space. Flew on the Space Shuttle Challenger on missions STS-7 in 1983 and STS-41G in 1984. Contributed to various aspects of crew systems and robotic systems for future missions. After retiring from NASA, engaged in education and advocacy for science and technology for young girls and women.
First American woman in space
Participated in STS-7 and STS-41G missions
Other People Born on May 26th
Nicolaus Zinzendorf
Bishop and founder of the Moravian Church
Born
May 26th, 1700 325 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1760 265 years ago — 59 years old
Born in Germany, played a significant role in the establishment of the Moravian Church, a Protestant denomination emphasizing religious freedom and missionary work. Founded the settlement of Herrnhut, where the Moravian community thrived under his leadership. Advocated for unity among different denominations and worked towards social justice, emphasizing the importance of education and community service.
Continue ReadingMicah Parsons
American football linebacker, Defensive Rookie of the Year
Born
May 26th, 1999 26 years ago
Positioned as a linebacker, a remarkable football player emerged from Penn State and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. In his inaugural season, notable performances included rapid tackles and consistent pressure on quarterbacks. Parsons' unique ability to adapt and excel in various defensive roles contributed to his reputation as a dynamic player. He secured the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2021, showcasing stellar athleticism and intelligence on the field. Parsons demonstrated strong leadership qualities, becoming a vital part of the Cowboys' defense, influencing several games through key plays. In subsequent seasons, continued to exhibit outstanding performance and solidified status as one of the league's premier linebackers.
Continue ReadingAnthony Ervin
Olympic swimmer and gold medalist
Born
May 26th, 1981 44 years ago
An accomplished swimmer, contributed to the sport with significant achievements in freestyle events. Competed in the 2000 and 2016 Olympics, winning gold in the 50-meter freestyle in both. Ervin also emerged as a world champion in multiple swimming competitions, showcasing exceptional talent and determination throughout the career.
Continue ReadingGong Myung
South Korean actor, 'My Roommate is a Gumiho'
Born
May 26th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, an actor gained recognition for roles in various television dramas and films. Gained popularity through performances in 'My Roommate is a Gumiho,' 'The Bride of Habaek,' and 'Love Revolution.' Demonstrated versatility in portraying complex characters across different genres.
Continue ReadingHasan Kabze
Turkish footballer and national player
Born
May 26th, 1982 43 years ago
Debuted professionally in 1999 with Kocaelispor, securing a position as a forward. Played for several teams in Turkey, including Çanakkale Dardanelspor, MKE Ankaragücü, and Gaziantepspor. Competed in the Turkish Super Lig, showcasing skills and goal-scoring ability. Represented Turkey at various youth levels and made appearances for the senior national team, contributing to international competitions. Transitioned to lesser-known leagues toward the end of the career, continuing to play football until retirement.
Continue ReadingOlcay Şahan
Turkish footballer, Trabzonspor player
Born
May 26th, 1987 38 years ago
Born in 1987, a professional footballer played primarily as a winger or forward. Spent significant career years with multiple clubs, including a notable spell at Trabzonspor. Gained recognition for performances in Süper Lig and contributing to team success during seasons. Also represented the Turkish national team, earning caps in various international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 23rd
Arthur J. Collingsworth
American diplomat and ambassador
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a diplomat for the United States, focusing on international relations and diplomacy. Held various positions within the U.S. government and represented American interests abroad. Contributed to the development of diplomatic policies and participated in significant negotiations during tenure. Played a key role in strengthening diplomatic ties with several countries.
Continue ReadingShigeko Kubota
Sculptor and video artist
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent Japanese-American sculptor and video artist, contributed to the development of video art. Created innovative sculptures and installations that often incorporated electronic media. Worked extensively on the intersection of sculpture and technology. Studied in Tokyo before moving to the United States, where significant works included installations that engaged with feminist themes and the human experience.
Continue ReadingDaniel Schorr
American journalist and author
Born
August 31st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent journalist and author with a career spanning over six decades, this individual reported on significant events in American history. Engaged in political journalism and known for investigative reporting, he worked for major news outlets including CBS News, NPR, and PBS. He contributed to the development of political reporting in television and was recognized for his critical coverage of both domestic and foreign affairs. His writing addressed major political scandals and government actions, with particular focus on Watergate and the Vietnam War.
Continue ReadingLakshmi Sahgal
Indian soldier and politician
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 98 years old
A soldier and politician, involvement included leadership in the Indian National Army during World War II. Served as a minister in the Azad Hind government established by Subhas Chandra Bose. Later became an active participant in Indian politics, representing the Communist Party of India and advocating for women's rights. Her contributions to the independence movement were significant, particularly in military strategy and women's involvement in the freedom struggle.
Continue ReadingKyaw Min Yu
Burmese political activist and leader
Born
1969 57 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2022 3 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent political activist in Myanmar, engaged in pro-democracy movements since the late 1980s. Played a crucial role in the 8888 Uprising in 1988, advocating for democratic reforms and human rights. Detained multiple times for his activism, including a lengthy sentence from 2007 to 2012. Post-release, continued to engage in political discourse and activism against the military regime, becoming a significant voice in Myanmar's struggle for democracy until his passing in 2022.
Continue ReadingEsther Applin
Geologist and paleontologist
Born
November 24th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1972 53 years ago — 76 years old
Contributions to geology and paleontology included studies on marine fossils and research in stratigraphy. Applin played a significant role in understanding the geological formations of the southwestern United States. These efforts advanced knowledge in the field of stratigraphic geology. Notably, Applin was one of the early women in the field, advocating for female participation in geology and paleontology.
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