Yvonne Brill
Engineer known for propulsion systems
Canadian-American scientist and engineer specialized in rocket propulsion systems. Developed advanced techniques for satellite propulsion. Contributed to the design of the propulsion system for the Mariner 2 spacecraft, which successfully flew by Venus in 1962. Worked with various aerospace organizations including NASA and was awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation for contributions to the field. Actively mentored young engineers and promoted women in science and engineering throughout her career.
Developed propulsion systems for satellites
Designed propulsion for the Mariner 2 spacecraft
Awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation
Other People Born on December 30th
Rob Scuderi
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 30th, 1978 47 years ago
An ice hockey player participated in the National Hockey League (NHL). Played primarily as a defenseman. Achieved considerable success with the Pittsburgh Penguins, contributing to the team's victory in the 2009 Stanley Cup Finals against the Detroit Red Wings. Also played for teams such as the Los Angeles Kings and New York Islanders during a career that spanned over a decade. Known for strong defensive skills and reliability on the ice.
Continue ReadingRandall Azofeifa
Costa Rican footballer and midfielder
Born
December 30th, 1984 41 years ago
This Costa Rican footballer played primarily as a midfielder. His career includes time spent at clubs like Deportivo Saprissa and Brujas. Azofeifa also made significant contributions to the national team, representing Costa Rica in various international competitions. His playing style showcased skill and tactical awareness, essential for central midfield functions. Throughout his career, he participated in key matches and tournaments that highlighted his abilities on the international stage.
Continue ReadingZbigniew Robert Promiński
Polish drummer with impactful performances
Born
December 30th, 1978 47 years ago
A drummer originated in Poland, gained recognition for contributions to the local and international music scene. Engaged in various genres, collaborated with many artists and bands. Participated in numerous music festivals and events, showcasing musical talent and unique style. Notable for work with established Polish musicians and involvement in projects that emphasize music education and community engagement.
Continue ReadingKevin Systrom
Co-founder of Instagram, Tech Entrepreneur
Born
December 30th, 1983 42 years ago
Co-founded Instagram in 2010, a photo and video sharing social networking service. The platform gained rapid popularity, leading to its acquisition by Facebook in 2012 for approximately $1 billion. Led the development of features such as filters and stories, which significantly influenced social media trends. Served as CEO until 2018, focusing on product development and user engagement. Played a crucial role in shaping the mobile photography culture and social media landscape.
Continue ReadingAlison McGovern
British politician and MP
Born
December 30th, 1980 45 years ago
Served as a Member of Parliament for St Helens South and Whiston since 2010. Engaged in various parliamentary roles and advocated for numerous policies relating to education and social justice. Worked within the Labour Party, contributing to party strategies and local initiatives. Participated in discussions on women's rights and the welfare system, influencing legislative processes.
Continue ReadingJeff Ward
American actor known for 'Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.'
Born
December 30th, 1986 39 years ago
An American actor, achieved recognition through roles in television series and films. Portrayed Deke Shaw in 'Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.' from 2018 to 2020. Appeared in other projects including 'The Mindy Project' and 'Fargo'. Exhibited versatility across different genres and platforms, earning roles in both comedic and dramatic contexts. Also worked in theater, showcasing skills in live performances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 27th
Jacob Veldhuyzen van Zanten
Dutch airline captain and pilot
Born
February 5th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1977 48 years ago — 50 years old
Born in the Netherlands in 1927, this individual served as a captain for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. He piloted various aircraft, gaining extensive experience in the aviation field. The most notable event in his career was leading Flight 4805, which tragically ended in a collision at Tenerife Airport in 1977, resulting in the deadliest airline accident in history. This incident greatly influenced aviation safety regulations and cockpit communication practices.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Battista Tiepolo
Italian painter of Rococo style
Born
March 5th, 1696 329 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1770 255 years ago — 74 years old
Active in the 18th century, this painter specialized in large-scale frescoes and became one of the leading figures of the Rococo style. Tiepolo's oeuvre includes notable works in churches and palaces across Europe, showing an exceptional ability to convey movement and light. His significant projects involved working in Venice, Bavaria, and Würzburg. The artist collaborated with his sons, helping to establish a family dynasty in painting. Through meticulous planning and a signature color palette, Tiepolo's compositions combined grand themes with vibrant depictions, creating a distinctive style that resonated across ages.
Continue ReadingJames Dewar
Scottish chemist and physicist
Born
September 20th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1923 102 years ago — 80 years old
A chemist and physicist contributed significantly to cryogenics and spectroscopy. Invented the Dewar flask, a vacuum-insulated container. Conducted research on the liquefaction of gases, leading to the first successful liquefaction of hydrogen. Held the position of Heriot-Watt University principal. Served as a fellow of the Royal Society and received multiple awards for contributions to science.
Continue ReadingKamal Hassan Ali
Egyptian General and Prime Minister
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1993 32 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent Egyptian general and politician, served as Prime Minister of Egypt during a critical period of the nation's history. Held key military positions and played a crucial role in shaping defense policies. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the armed forces and address national security challenges. Transitioned from military to political leadership, impacting Egypt's governance structure while navigating complex regional dynamics. After leaving the office of Prime Minister, continued to participate in political discourse until death in 1993.
Continue ReadingJames R. Schlesinger
Economist and 12th U.S. Secretary of Defense
Born
February 15th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
Held the position of the 12th Secretary of Defense from 1973 to 1975, overseeing the U.S. military during the Vietnam War's end and the transition of military policies. Served as Director of Central Intelligence, contributing to national security strategies. Worked in various economic and political roles within government, influencing defense policy and energy strategies. Played a significant role in shaping U.S. defense and intelligence during the Cold War.
Continue ReadingRichard N. Frye
American scholar and academic expert
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 94 years old
An influential scholar in Persian studies, contributed significantly to the understanding of Iranian history and culture. Held academic positions at Harvard University and the University of Massachusetts. Founded the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard, which became a key institution for the study of the region. Authored several books and translated important Persian texts, enhancing Western knowledge of Persian literature and culture.
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