Thomas Cranmer
Archbishop of Canterbury and Reformer
An English archbishop and theologian, played a significant role in the English Reformation. As the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1533 to 1556, contributed to the development of the Church of England. Authored the Book of Common Prayer, which became a foundational text for Anglican worship. Conducted the marriage of King Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn, a pivotal moment in English ecclesiastical history. Captured during the Marian persecution, faced execution for heresy in 1556 after refusing to retract his Protestant beliefs.
Authored the Book of Common Prayer
Served as Archbishop of Canterbury
Facilitated the English Reformation
Other People Born on July 2nd
Esteban Granero
Spanish footballer and midfielder
Born
July 2nd, 1987 38 years ago
A Spanish footballer, played as a midfielder. Emerged from the youth setup at Real Madrid, debuting in 2006. Had stints with clubs like Getafe, Queens Park Rangers, and Real Sociedad. Contributed to the Spanish national team, winning the UEFA European Championship in 2008. Known for technical skill and vision on the field, Granero became a pivotal player during his time in the Premier League and La Liga.
Continue ReadingWilliam Henry Bragg
Physicist, chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
July 2nd, 1862 163 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1942 84 years ago — 79 years old
Significant contributions were made to the field of X-ray crystallography. Developed Bragg's Law alongside his son, which describes the relationship between the angles of incident and diffractedX-rays. This work laid the foundation for the analysis of crystal structures. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1915 for his work in this area. Served as a professor at the University of Leeds and later at the Royal Institute of Great Britain, where advancements in physics and chemistry were fostered.
Continue ReadingAlex Morgan
Professional soccer player and Olympic gold medalist
Born
July 2nd, 1989 36 years ago
A prominent soccer player, this athlete gained recognition through stellar performances on the field. Represented the United States women's national soccer team, contributing significantly to the team's success. Played for Orlando Pride in the National Women's Soccer League. Achieved Olympic gold at the 2012 London Games and secured the FIFA Women's World Cup title in 2015. Known for scoring crucial goals in major tournaments.
Continue ReadingRyan Murphy
American swimmer with Olympic gold medals
Born
July 2nd, 1995 30 years ago
Competed in swimming events for the United States, specializing in backstroke and individual medley. Achieved three gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics, winning the 100m backstroke, 200m backstroke, and 200m individual medley. Added a bronze medal in the 4x100m medley relay. Established a reputation as one of the top swimmers in the country, setting multiple American records in backstroke events. Persistently contributed to the team events in international competitions.
Continue ReadingLee Chung-yong
South Korean footballer, played for Bolton
Born
July 2nd, 1988 37 years ago
Started professional career with FC Seoul, where contributed to winning the K League championship in 2008. Transferred to Bolton Wanderers in 2009, playing in the Premier League. Played a crucial role in the team, gaining recognition for various successful seasons. Represented South Korea in multiple international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and 2014. Returned to South Korea and continued career with clubs like Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.
Continue ReadingMadison Chock
Ice Dancer; 2015 U.S. National Champion
Born
July 2nd, 1992 33 years ago
An ice dancer participated in competitive events alongside a partner. The duo achieved significant success on the international stage, including multiple appearances at the Winter Olympics. A highlight of the career came in 2015, clinching the title at the U.S. National Championships. The pair also earned medals at various international competitions, including the Grand Prix series and World Championships. Their performances received acclaim for innovative choreography and technical precision.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 21st
Lili Damita
Actress in 'The Sea Beast' and singer
Born
July 10th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1994 32 years ago — 89 years old
Born in France, Lili Damita gained prominence in the early 20th century as an actress and singer. She appeared in several films during the silent era and the transition to sound films. Damita starred in the 1926 film 'The Sea Beast' alongside John Barrymore and showcased her musical talents through various performances. In addition to her successful film career, she was recognized for her contributions to the arts, particularly in melodramatic and romantic roles. Later, she moved to the United States, where she continued her career in Hollywood, becoming a known figure in the film industry.
Continue ReadingLilyan Tashman
American actress in silent films
Born
October 23rd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1934 92 years ago — 37 years old
An actress gained prominence during the silent film era and transitioned into sound films. Featured in notable productions such as 'The Show of Shows' and 'The Love Parade.' Tashman became recognized for her performances in various films throughout the 1920s and early 1930s. Her career was marked by notable roles that showcased her talent and appeal, establishing her as a prominent figure in early American cinema.
Continue ReadingNawal El Saadawi
Egyptian feminist writer and activist
Born
October 27th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2021 5 years ago — 89 years old
An Egyptian secularist and feminist, dedicated decades to advocating for women's rights and social justice. Authored multiple influential books including 'Woman at Point Zero', which addresses the struggles faced by women in patriarchal societies. Founded the Arab Women's Solidarity Association and served in various capacities within organizations focused on gender equality and women's empowerment. Experiencing periods of imprisonment and exile due to political activism, continued to inspire future generations through writings and lectures until passing in 2021.
Continue ReadingBobby Short
American singer and pianist, cabaret artist
Born
September 15th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2005 21 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1924, a celebrated cabaret artist showcasing his talents in various prestigious venues, primarily in New York City. Gained prominence in the late 1940s and became associated with the rich tradition of American popular music. Artistry involved a blend of jazz, pop, and classic standards, with a focus on piano accompaniment. Performed regularly at the Café Carlyle for over three decades, becoming a fixture in the cabaret scene. Acclaimed for interpretations of the Great American Songbook, contributing to the revival of this musical genre throughout the latter half of the 20th century. Frequently recorded throughout the years, leaving behind a legacy of well-received albums.
Continue ReadingJohn Law
Economist and Controller-General of Finances
Born
April 21st, 1671 355 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1729 297 years ago — 57 years old
A Scottish-French economist and politician, served as the Controller-General of Finances under the regency of Philippe II, Duke of Orléans. Developed a monetary and banking system that sought to stimulate the French economy through paper currency and credit expansion. His ideas contributed to the establishment of the Banque Générale and the Mississippi Company, which aimed to exploit the resources of French Louisiana. Law's financial schemes led to significant economic changes in France during the early 18th century and were instrumental in the emergence of modern banking systems.
Continue ReadingColin Dexter
English author of detective fiction
Born
September 29th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2017 9 years ago — 86 years old
An English author wrote a series of detective novels featuring the character Inspector Morse. The series was adapted into a successful television show that aired from 1987 to 2000. Dexter's literary career began in the 1970s, with the first Morse novel, 'Last Bus to Woodstock', published in 1975. The character was distinguished by his intellect and love for classical music, making the stories unique in the genre. Dexter received multiple awards for his writing, including the prestigious Cartier Diamond Dagger award for lifetime achievement in crime writing.
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