Wernher von Braun

Rocket engineer and moon mission architect

Wernher von Braun - Rocket engineer and moon mission architect
Born

March 23rd, 1912
112 years ago

Died

June 16th, 1977
47 years ago — 65 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent rocket engineer and space architect, developed the V-2 rocket during World War II. Emigrated to the United States after the war and became instrumental in the space program. Contributed to the design and execution of the Saturn V launch vehicle, which successfully sent astronauts to the Moon during the Apollo missions. Advocated for space exploration and played a key role in NASA's early achievements in space technology.

Developed the V-2 rocket for Nazi Germany

Designed the Saturn V rocket for Apollo missions

Served as the director of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center

Other People Born on March 23rd

Dora Gerson

German actress and singer
Born
March 23rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1943 82 years ago — 43 years old

Gerson gained prominence as an actress and singer in pre-World War II Germany. She became popular in the 1920s and 1930s, performing in numerous films and theatrical productions. Gerson's works often showcased her singing talents alongside her acting skills. Her career came to an abrupt halt due to the rise of the Nazi regime, which led to her persecution. Gerson died in a concentration camp during the Holocaust.

Continue Reading

Kyrie Irving

Professional basketball player
Born
March 23rd, 1992 32 years ago

Born in 1992, this basketball player gained prominence in the NBA as a guard. Drafted first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2011, he won an NBA Championship in 2016. He played a key role in the Cavaliers' historic comeback in the Finals against the Golden State Warriors by hitting the game-winning shot in Game 7. After his tenure with the Cavaliers, he played for the Boston Celtics and later joined the Brooklyn Nets. Throughout his career, he was recognized for his exceptional ball-handling skills and scoring ability, earning multiple selections to the NBA All-Star Game.

Continue Reading

Jason Kenny

Track Cyclist, Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
March 23rd, 1988 36 years ago

A track cyclist specialized in sprint events. Achieved significant success at the Olympic Games, representing Great Britain. Competed in multiple Olympics, contributing to the team's medal tally. Known for consistency and performance under pressure.

Continue Reading

Pierre Palmade

French actor and screenwriter, Les Visiteurs
Born
March 23rd, 1968 56 years ago

Born in 1968, this individual gained recognition for contributions to French cinema and comedy. Worked extensively in theater and television, and achieved prominence through the film 'Les Visiteurs' released in 1993, which became a box office success. Also wrote and starred in various comedic shows, showcasing a unique blend of humor and storytelling. Collaborated with numerous prominent figures in the French entertainment industry throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Friedrich Amelung

Historian and businessman from Estonia
Born
March 23rd, 1842 182 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1909 115 years ago — 66 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of history in Estonia through research and publications. Involved in various business ventures, including industries important to the regional economy. Played a role in the establishment of educational institutions, promoting historical studies. Engaged in efforts to preserve Estonian culture and heritage during a period of significant political and social changes.

Continue Reading

Franz Schreker

Austrian composer and conductor renowned
Born
March 23rd, 1878 146 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1934 90 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed significantly to early 20th-century music. Composed operas, orchestral works, and chamber music, often integrating rich orchestration and innovative harmonic techniques. Works include operas like 'Die Gezeichneten' and 'Der Schatzgräber'. Held the position of professor at the Vienna Academy of Music, influencing a generation of composers. Faced challenges during the rise of the Nazi regime, which led to a decline in popularity and performances of his works.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 16th

Jean Le Fèvre de Saint-Remy

Burgundian historian and author
Born
1395 630 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1468 556 years ago — 73 years old

A historian and author from Burgundy, contributions included writing historical texts and chronicling important events. Engaged in the history of the Burgundian court, produced works that documented political and military affairs of the time. Assisted in forming a sense of identity for the Burgundian people through historical narratives. Works remain valuable for understanding the history of the late Middle Ages in France and the Burgundian region.

Continue Reading

William Lawson

Explorer and politician in Australia
Born
June 2nd, 1774 250 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1850 174 years ago — 76 years old

Born in England in 1774, William Lawson became an influential explorer and politician in Australia. In 1813, he led an expedition through the Blue Mountains, paving the way for future settlers. This exploratory journey opened up new agricultural land and contributed to the expansion of the colony. Lawson served in various political roles, including as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Council. His contributions to both exploration and governance significantly shaped early Australian society.

Continue Reading

Philip of Artois

Count of Eu, French soldier
Born
1358 667 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1397 627 years ago — 39 years old

Held the title of Count of Eu and served as a military leader during the 14th century. Participated in various military campaigns, notably in the Hundred Years' War. Engaged in the defense of French territories against English forces. Involved in the politics of the time, aligning with key noble figures to influence military strategies.

Continue Reading

Helmut Kohl

German Chancellor during reunification
Born
April 3rd, 1930 94 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2017 7 years ago — 87 years old

Held the office of Chancellor of Germany from 1982 to 1998. Played a key role in the reunification of Germany after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Served as a prominent leader in the European integration process, contributing to the establishment of the Euro. His tenure focused on economic policies that supported the reunification and modernization of the country's infrastructure. The Kohl administration faced challenges such as economic restructuring and handling the political implications of reunification.

Continue Reading

James Honeyman-Scott

Guitarist and songwriter for The Pretenders
Born
November 4th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1982 42 years ago — 25 years old

A significant figure in the rock music scene, played guitar and contributed songs to the band The Pretenders. The group achieved recognition in the late 1970s and early 1980s with hits that defined the era. Engagement in music began early, leading to a pivotal role in creating the band's distinctive sound characterized by a blend of punk rock and new wave. The band released several acclaimed albums during this period, solidifying its place in music history. Tragically passed away at a young age, leaving a legacy through the band's influential work.

Continue Reading

Brian Piccolo

American football player; Chicago Bears running back
Born
October 31st, 1943 81 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1970 54 years ago — 26 years old

Played college football at Wake Forest University, earning All-American honors. Drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1965, played as a running back. Gained recognition for his performance on the field and his character off the field. Developed a close friendship with teammate Gale Sayers. Diagnosed with cancer in 1968, faced the illness with courage, which gained attention and sympathy. Died at the age of 26, leaving a legacy that inspired a biographical film.

Continue Reading