Steve Fossett

Pilot and sailor, solo balloonist

Steve Fossett - Pilot and sailor, solo balloonist
Born

April 22nd, 1944
81 years ago

Died

September 3rd, 2007
18 years ago — 63 years old

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

United States

Links & References

A businessman and adventurer completed numerous solo flights, setting several records in aviation and sailing. Achievements included the first solo nonstop balloon flight around the world in 2002. Also, constructed the first successful solo transpacific flight and was involved in various ocean racing events. Disappeared during a flight in 2007 while exploring the Sierra Nevada range in California.

First solo nonstop balloon flight around the world

First solo transpacific flight

Other People Born on April 22nd

Reinhard III

Count of Hanau during the early 15th century
Born
April 22nd, 1412 613 years ago
Died
1452 573 years ago — 40 years old

Count of Hanau held power from 1451 until 1452. During this brief reign, focused on regional governance and local administration. Contributed to the development of the principality's political structure and alliances. His tenure was marked by efforts to maintain stability in a turbulent period of local conflicts and shifting power dynamics in the Holy Roman Empire.

Continue Reading

Vittorio Jano

Italian automotive engineer and designer
Born
April 22nd, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1965 60 years ago — 73 years old

An influential automotive engineer contributed to the design and development of several successful racing cars. Played a key role at Alfa Romeo, where significant innovations in automotive engineering took place during the 1920s and 1930s. Designed the 158 and 159 Grand Prix cars, which secured numerous championships for Alfa Romeo in the pre-World War II era. Emphasized performance and aerodynamics in automotive design, establishing benchmarks for future vehicles.

Continue Reading

J. Robert Oppenheimer

Physicist, Manhattan Project leader
Born
April 22nd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1967 58 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent physicist, played a crucial role in the development of nuclear weapons during World War II as the scientific director of the Manhattan Project. Oversaw the first successful detonation of a nuclear bomb at the Trinity test in July 1945. After the war, voiced concerns regarding nuclear proliferation and advocated for international control of atomic energy. Served as the director of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton until death.

Continue Reading

William IV

Grand Duke of Luxembourg
Born
April 22nd, 1852 173 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1912 113 years ago — 59 years old

Ruled as Grand Duke of Luxembourg from 1905 until his death in 1912. Served as military leader during World War I, overseeing the defense of the country. Actively involved in the administration and development of Luxembourg's infrastructure and culture, promoting education and economic growth during his reign.

Continue Reading

Jack Nicholson

Actor and producer, 'The Shining'
Born
April 22nd, 1937 88 years ago

An American actor and producer, this figure has been a prominent presence in cinema since the late 1950s. Early work included roles in films such as 'Easy Rider' and 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest', the latter earning an Academy Award for Best Actor. Throughout a career spanning decades, the individual has portrayed complex characters in films including 'The Shining', 'As Good as It Gets', and 'The Departed'. Significant achievements include numerous accolades, with three Academy Awards in the acting category and multiple Golden Globe Awards. The individual's contributions to film have shaped American cinema.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth of York

Duchess of Suffolk, English royal
Born
April 22nd, 1444 581 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1503 522 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1444, a key figure in the Wars of the Roses, played a significant role in the political landscape of England. Married Henry VII, uniting the warring houses of Lancaster and York. This marriage marked the beginning of the Tudor dynasty. Elizabeth's lineage included several notable monarchs, and her daughters, notably, influenced royal alliances through their marriages.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 3rd

Duncan Renaldo

American actor in The Cisco Kid
Born
April 23rd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1980 45 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1904, an American actor gained recognition for his portrayal of the character Cisco Kid in the 1950s television series. The role brought significant popularity and established a lasting legacy in the Western genre. Prior to television work, engaged in various theatrical productions and films during the 1930s and 1940s. His work on The Cisco Kid influenced the representation of Latino characters in media. Renaldo also contributed to film as a producer later in his career.

Continue Reading

John Lester

American cricketer and soccer player
Born
August 1st, 1871 154 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1969 56 years ago — 98 years old

Played professional cricket and soccer in the United States during the late 19th century, contributing to both sports' development. Competed as a key player for several cricket clubs and soccer teams, showcasing versatility in athletic skills. Participation in prominent matches in both sports marked a unique dual career during a period of growth for cricket and soccer in America.

Continue Reading

Pauline Kael

Film critic and author, notable for 'Kiss Kiss Bang Bang'
Born
June 19th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2001 24 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent film critic and author, this individual contributed significantly to film criticism throughout the 20th century. Worked at The New Yorker, where film reviews showcased a unique style and perspective, influencing public opinion on cinema. Published several books, including 'Kiss Kiss Bang Bang' and 'Deeper into Movies,' which garnered attention for their insightful analyses and engaging prose. Known for the ability to articulate and provoke discussions on film, shaping the landscape of modern criticism.

Continue Reading

Vasil Gendov

Bulgarian actor and director
Born
November 24th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1970 55 years ago — 78 years old

An influential figure in Bulgarian cinema, Gendov served as an actor, director, and screenwriter. His career began in the early 20th century, and he became a staple of the Bulgarian art scene. Gendov directed and acted in numerous films during the silent film era. His contributions helped lay the foundation for the development of Bulgarian film.

Continue Reading

Louis MacNeice

Irish poet and playwright of Modernism
Born
September 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1963 62 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1907, an influential poet and playwright emerged in the 20th century literary scene. Associated with Modernism, produced a unique blend of lyrical beauty and realistic themes. Wrote several celebrated works, including the poetry collections 'Solar Prominence' and 'The Burning Perch'. His plays, such as 'The Dark Tower', showcased a dramatic exploration of complex human emotions and social issues, contributing to the cultural landscape of Ireland. Also known for his radio plays and critical essays, latterly involved in the promotion of literature and poetic thought.

Continue Reading

Séraphine Louis

French painter of naïve art
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1942 83 years ago — 78 years old

A self-taught painter from France, created works characterized by vibrant colors and a unique, primitive style. Gained recognition in the early 20th century, with an artistic practice that began in her late thirties. Gained attention from art collectors and critics alike. The works showcased a deep connection to nature and spiritual themes. Exhibited at prominent galleries, leaving a lasting influence in the art world. The story of her life and art inspired the biopic 'Séraphine', which depicted her struggles and creativity.

Continue Reading