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
Edgaras Jankauskas
Lithuanian footballer and UEFA Champion
Born
March 12th, 1975 51 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Gained prominence in Europe, competing in top leagues including La Liga, Ligue 1, and the Russian Premier League. Achieved significant success with FC Porto, winning the UEFA Champions League in 2004. Represented Lithuania in international competitions, contributing to the national team's efforts in qualifiers and tournaments.
Continue ReadingMecole Hardman
American football wide receiver, Super Bowl champion
Born
March 12th, 1998 28 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 ReadingYashwantrao Chavan
Indian politician and Deputy Prime Minister
Born
March 12th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1984 41 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 5th Deputy Prime Minister of India from 1971 to 1975. Played a significant role in the Indian National Congress, contributing to the formation of the Maharashtra state in 1960. Held various ministerial positions, including the Minister of Home Affairs and the Minister of Finance. Active in the Indian independence movement, he was a prominent figure in Indian politics post-independence. His leadership greatly influenced the political landscape of Maharashtra and beyond.
Continue ReadingVytautas Černiauskas
Lithuanian footballer and goalkeeper
Born
March 12th, 1989 37 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 ReadingMarvin Jones
American football wide receiver
Born
March 12th, 1990 36 years ago
Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) for the Cincinnati Bengals and the Detroit Lions. Achieved significant statistics during career years with both teams. In 2013, recorded a breakout season with the Bengals, showcasing skills as a reliable target and effective playmaker. Contributed to Lions' offense as a primary receiver, enhancing the team's passing game and achieving numerous touchdowns. Established himself as a veteran presence in the league.
Continue ReadingDont'a Hightower
American football linebacker and coach
Born
March 12th, 1990 36 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
Christine Jorgensen
American transgender rights advocate
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1989 37 years ago — 63 years old
Transgender rights advocacy began following transition in 1952, raising awareness of transgender issues in the U.S. through personal narrative and media appearances. Gained fame as the first American to receive sex reassignment surgery after World War II. Became a public speaker and author, contributing to discussions on gender identity and representation. Participated in various television shows and interviews, influencing perceptions of transgender individuals.
Continue ReadingHenry Garnet
English priest and author of 'A Treatise'
Born
1555 471 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1606 420 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 ReadingRevaz Chkheidze
Georgian director and screenwriter
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2015 11 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.
Continue ReadingJerzy Kosiński
Novelist and screenwriter; 'The Painted Bird'
Born
June 14th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1991 35 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Poland, a notable figure in literature, focusing on themes of identity and survival. Emigrated to the United States post-World War II. Gained recognition with the novel 'The Painted Bird', a harrowing tale of a young boy's experiences during the Holocaust. Also authored 'Being There', which was adapted into a successful film starring Peter Sellers. Wrote several other novels and screenplays, exploring complex characters and societal issues. Received various accolades for literary contributions.
Continue ReadingUaxaclajuun Ub'aah K'awiil
Mayan ruler and ajaw
Died
May 3rd, 738 1288 years ago — None years old
Ruled the city of Calakmul during the Late Classic period of the Maya civilization. Initiated significant building projects and participated in military campaigns to expand territory and influence. Also engaged in complex ritual activities, which were central to the Mayan belief system. The reign contributed to the political landscape of the region during a time of significant cultural development.
Continue ReadingGene Raymond
American actor and pilot in films
Born
August 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1998 28 years ago — 89 years old
Active in the film industry from the 1930s to the 1960s, Gene Raymond appeared in significant roles in movies such as 'The Wedding Night' and 'Murder in the Blue Room'. In addition to acting, he served as a pilot during World War II, contributing to the war effort. After the war, he continued to perform in various productions, including television series. His career spanned several decades, showcasing his talents in both film and theater.
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