Serj Tankian
Lead vocalist of System of a Down
Born in Lebanon and raised in the United States, this singer-songwriter gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the heavy metal band System of a Down. The band achieved significant success with the release of albums such as 'Toxicity' and 'Mezmerize'. The band's music often addresses socio-political issues, reflecting the singer's Armenian heritage and activism. Alongside a successful music career, contributions to solo projects and humanitarian efforts focused on the Armenian community were significant aspects of this individual's life.
Led System of a Down to Grammy Awards success
Released the solo album 'Elect the Dead'
Advocated for Armenian genocide recognition
Other People Born on August 21st
Emiliano Mercado del Toro
Puerto Rican-American soldier
Born
August 21st, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2007 19 years ago — 115 years old
Served in the United States Army during World War II. Participated in significant battles such as the invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. Achieved the rank of sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery. Later served in the Puerto Rican National Guard and continued to advocate for veterans' rights.
Continue ReadingWilliam Murdoch
Engineer and inventor of gas lighting
Born
August 21st, 1754 271 years ago
Died
1839 187 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Scotland, contributed significantly to the development of gas lighting technology. Murdoch worked with steam engines before focusing on illuminating streets and homes using gas. His innovations paved the way for the use of gas in residential and industrial settings. Additionally, he developed a gas meter and played a pivotal role in the introduction of gas lighting to cities like Glasgow and London. His work laid the foundation for modern lighting practices.
Continue ReadingNicolás Almagro
Tennis player with ATP titles
Born
August 21st, 1985 40 years ago
A professional tennis player from Spain, competed primarily on the ATP tour. Gained prominence in the early 2000s and achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 9 in 2012. Excelled on clay courts, capturing multiple ATP titles including the 2012 Nice Open. Participated in all four Grand Slam tournaments, with his best performance being a quarterfinal appearance at the French Open in 2008. Represented Spain in the Davis Cup, contributing to the team's successful campaigns during his tenure. Retired from professional tennis in 2018.
Continue ReadingAugustin-Louis Cauchy
Mathematician noted for analysis and elasticity
Born
August 21st, 1789 236 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1857 168 years ago — 67 years old
A mathematician and academic, contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in analysis and elasticity. Cauchy developed the concept of the limit, continuity, and differentiation, which are fundamental in calculus. Created what is known as Cauchy sequences, which form the basis for modern analysis. Published extensively, with over 800 papers and books, influencing future generations of mathematicians. Held a position at the École Polytechnique and contributed to several mathematical journals. Cauchy's work on complex functions and the Cauchy integral theorem laid the groundwork for complex analysis.
Continue ReadingSergey Brin
Computer Scientist, co-founder of Google
Born
August 21st, 1973 52 years ago
A Russian-American computer scientist and businessman, co-founded Google in 1998. Brin played a pivotal role in the development of the search engine, which revolutionized the way information is accessed online. Brin served as the President of Technology at Google and was instrumental in the company's growth into a leading technology giant. He also contributed to various projects in machine learning and artificial intelligence during his tenure. Outside of Google, Brin has been involved in venture capital through the investment firm, CapitalG, focusing on innovative technology startups.
Continue ReadingMohammed VI
King of Morocco overseeing modernization
Born
August 21st, 1963 62 years ago
Ascended to the throne in 1999, overseeing significant political, economic, and social reforms. Implemented initiatives to modernize infrastructure, improve education, and promote economic growth. Enhanced the role of women in society through legal reforms. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to resolve regional issues and strengthen Morocco's international relations.
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