What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Yitzhak Navon

Israeli politician and statesman
Born
April 9th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2015 9 years ago — 94 years old

Served as the fifth President of Israel from 1978 to 1983. Participated in the establishment of the Israeli educational system and promoted Hebrew culture. Involved in diplomatic efforts, including relations with Arab nations. Contributed to peace initiatives, particularly with Egypt. Authored several works on Israeli and Hebrew culture.

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Mary Jackson

Mathematician and aerospace engineer
Born
April 9th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2005 19 years ago — 84 years old

Began career as a mathematician and aerospace engineer at NASA, contributing to the United States space program. Worked in the segregated West Area Computers division at Langley Research Center. Focused on aerodynamics and published significant research in the fields of fluid dynamics and flight paths. Later became the first African-American female engineer at NASA, breaking barriers for women in engineering. Advocated for women in STEM fields throughout career.

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Sheb Wooley

Singer-songwriter and actor; 'The Purple People Eater'
Born
April 10th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2003 21 years ago — 82 years old

An American singer-songwriter and actor, achieved prominence in the 1950s. Gained fame with the novelty song 'The Purple People Eater,' which topped the Billboard charts in 1958. Also contributed to television and film, appearing in the series 'Rawhide' and 'The Kettles in the Ozarks.' Career in entertainment spanned several decades, transitioning between music and acting, becoming a well-recognized figure in both fields.

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Chuck Connors

Baseball player and actor in The Rifleman
Born
April 10th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1992 32 years ago — 71 years old

A professional baseball player and actor, this individual initially played Major League Baseball as a first baseman and outfielder for teams including the Chicago Cubs and the Brooklyn Dodgers. After a brief baseball career, transitioned successfully into acting, gaining significant recognition for the role of Lucas McCain in the television series The Rifleman, which aired from 1958 to 1963. In addition to television, appeared in various films, including The Big Country and Pat and Mike. The ability to seamlessly navigate both the sports and entertainment worlds marked a notable career.

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Jim Hearn

Baseball player with the New York Mets
Born
April 11th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1998 26 years ago — 77 years old

Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher. Debuted with the New York Giants in 1947 and later played for the New York Mets. Known for a successful career during the 1940s and 1950s. His performance in games helped secure victories and contributed to team standings during competitive seasons.

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Jack Rayner

Rugby league player and coach
Born
April 11th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 87 years old

Played rugby league primarily with the Melbourne Storm and served as a coach for various teams. His coaching tenure included leading the New South Wales rugby league team. As a player, contributed significantly to the sport during the mid-20th century and was active in shaping rugby league in Australia both on and off the field.

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Thomas Schelling

Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 14th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 95 years old

An American economist made significant contributions to game theory, particularly in the context of conflict and cooperation. Schelling's work analyzed strategic behavior in economics and military strategy, providing insights that influenced both public policy and academic research. His notable publications include 'The Strategy of Conflict' and 'Micromotives and Macrobehavior'. Schelling's theories have been applied to various fields, including international relations, economics, and environmental policy. In 2005, he received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his pioneering analysis of conflict and cooperation through game-theory methodology.

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Angelo DiGeorge

American endocrinologist and physician
Born
April 15th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2009 15 years ago — 88 years old

An American physician and endocrinologist, contributed significantly to the understanding of genetic disorders related to the immune system. Focused on the DiGeorge syndrome, a condition characterized by a range of birth defects, including heart defects, poor immune function, and specific facial features. Worked on developing treatment protocols for affected individuals, enhancing the quality of life for patients. Conducted research that paved the way for a better understanding of genetic influences on health.

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Georgy Beregovoy

General and astronaut, Soyuz 3 commander
Born
April 15th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1995 29 years ago — 74 years old

A Ukrainian-Russian general and pilot achieved the rank of major general in the Soviet Air Force. Initially trained as a pilot during World War II, worked as a test pilot post-war. In 1968, commanded the Soyuz 3 mission, successfully docking with the Salyut 1 space station. Over the course of the career, participated in various military and space exploration efforts, gaining recognition for contributions to aerospace advancements. Received multiple awards, including the title of Hero of the Soviet Union.

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