Wally Schirra
Astronaut and Apollo 7 commander
A captain, pilot, and astronaut, this individual became a prominent figure in the early years of human spaceflight. Selected as one of the original seven astronauts for NASA's Project Mercury, he flew on Mercury-Atlas 8, performing six orbits of Earth in 1962. Later, he commanded the Apollo 7 mission in 1968, the first manned flight of the Apollo program, which tested crucial systems for future lunar missions. Throughout a distinguished career with NASA, he also contributed to the Gemini program and helped develop space shuttle technology.
Commanded Apollo 7, the first manned Apollo mission
Flew on Mercury-Atlas 8, completing six orbits
Other People Born on March 12th
Katie Archibald
Scottish track cyclist and Olympic champion
Born
March 12th, 1994 31 years ago
A track cyclist based in Scotland, achieved significant success in the sport, competing predominantly in the individual pursuit and team pursuit events. Won a gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics as part of the British cycling team in the women's team pursuit. Secured multiple titles at the UCI Track Cycling World Championships, showcasing strength in both individual and team events. Competed in various national and international competitions, contributing to Scotland's reputation in cycling.
Continue ReadingRichard Eckersley
English footballer, played for Burnley
Born
March 12th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional footballer specializing in the right-back position, played for several clubs in England. Started his career in the youth system of Manchester United, progressing to the senior team without making a league appearance. Had loan spells at various clubs including Plymouth Argyle, where made notable contributions. Subsequently signed by Burnley, where played in the Championship. Later transitioned to play for clubs such as Bradford City and Bury, contributing to team efforts in League One and League Two. Retired from professional football but continued to engage in the sport.
Continue ReadingMecole Hardman
American football wide receiver, Super Bowl champion
Born
March 12th, 1998 27 years ago
Played college football at the University of Georgia. Selected in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. Contributed to the Chiefs' victory in Super Bowl LIV against the San Francisco 49ers. Served as a reliable wide receiver and return specialist during tenure with the Chiefs. Recorded notable performances in multiple playoff games and regular seasons, showcasing speed and agility.
Continue ReadingEd Clancy
Track and road cyclist, Olympic champion
Born
March 12th, 1985 40 years ago
Elite cyclist specialized in track and road events. Competed in multiple Olympic Games, achieving success in the team pursuit. Contributed to Great Britain's dominance in cycling by helping secure multiple gold medals at World Championships. Actively participated in national road races and consistently competed in professional events throughout a significant career.
Continue ReadingVytautas Černiauskas
Lithuanian footballer and goalkeeper
Born
March 12th, 1989 36 years ago
Born in Lithuania, a professional footballer focused on the position of goalkeeper. Developed early career at FK Mažeikiai. Played for FC KUPISKIS, contributing to the team's success in various competitions. Later joined FK Žalgiris, where solid performances were crucial in securing league titles and domestic cup victories. Accumulated experience in the Baltic football scene, showcasing skills and leadership on the pitch.
Continue ReadingDont'a Hightower
American football linebacker and coach
Born
March 12th, 1990 35 years ago
Played linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the New England Patriots. Contributed to the team's victories in Super Bowl XLIX, LI, and LIII. Transitioned to a coaching role following retirement from playing, sharing knowledge and experience gained during a successful playing career. Recognized for strong leadership on and off the field, particularly in key defensive roles.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 3rd
Henry Garnet
English priest and author of 'A Treatise'
Born
1555 471 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1606 419 years ago — 51 years old
An English priest and theologian, contributed significantly to the Catholic Church during the late 16th century. Garnet served as a Jesuit and became the superior of the English Jesuits. He authored several religious treatises, with his most notable work being 'A Treatise of the Sacrament of Penance', which laid out principles of Catholic faith and confession. He was implicated in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, leading to his arrest. After a trial, he was executed in 1606, celebrated by Catholics as a martyr.
Continue ReadingGeorge Murphy
Actor and politician from the U.S.
Born
July 4th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1992 33 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1902, an American actor transitioned into politics. Achieved prominence in the film industry during the 1930s and 1940s, featuring in musicals and comedies. Served as a Republican U.S. Senator from California from 1965 to 1971. Advocated for the arts and cinema during this tenure.
Continue ReadingJessie Willcox Smith
Illustrator of children's books
Born
September 6th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1935 90 years ago — 71 years old
An American illustrator, recognized for work in children's literature and magazines during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Contributions included illustrations for well-known books such as 'Little Women' and 'A Child's Garden of Verses'. Collaborated with prominent authors and published illustrations in magazines like 'Ladies' Home Journal' and 'Scribner's'. Smith's distinctive style featured soft colors and emotional depth, appealing to both children and adults.
Continue ReadingJuana de la Cruz Vazquez Gutierrez
Spanish Roman Catholic nun and venerable
Born
1481 545 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1534 491 years ago — 53 years old
Became a prominent figure within the Spanish Roman Catholic Church during the early 16th century. Joined the Order of Saint Augustine and dedicated life to religious service and community. Established a convent that focused on the spiritual education of women. Contributed to the development of theological writings and eventually received the title of venerable for her pious life and commitment to the faith.
Continue ReadingAlex Kellner
American baseball player and pitcher
Born
August 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 71 years old
A professional baseball player, primarily served as a pitcher during the 1940s and 1950s. Played for the Philadelphia Athletics and the Kansas City Athletics in Major League Baseball. Participated in the league for parts of ten seasons, establishing a reputation as a reliable left-handed pitcher. Contributed to the team's efforts in the American League.
Continue ReadingRevaz Chkheidze
Georgian director and screenwriter
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
This individual served as a director and screenwriter in Georgia. Significant contributions include works in film and theater, with notable projects in the 20th century. Directed films that explored themes of Georgian life, culture, and identity. Helped shape the Georgian cinema landscape during a pivotal time in the country's history.
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