August 21 is a significant date in the annals of history, marking the passing of various notable figures across different fields. From historical figures and artists to scientists and activists, each of these individuals made unique contributions to their respective domains. This article explores 21 celebrities who died on August 21, highlighting their birthdays, careers, and lasting impacts.
21 Famous People Died on August 21
1. Elizabeth Báthory
Date of death: August 21, 1614
Elizabeth Báthory, born on August 7, 1560, was a Hungarian noblewoman infamous for her alleged crimes and her role in one of history’s most notorious legends. Known as the “Blood Countess,” Báthory was accused of torturing and murdering young girls. Her trial and execution became the subject of numerous myths and sensational stories. Despite the controversies surrounding her, Báthory’s life and the myths about her have made her a figure of historical intrigue.
2. Arthur Hockaday
Date of death: August 21, 1933
Arthur Hockaday, born on February 20, 1864, was a British lawyer and politician. Hockaday served as a member of the House of Commons and was known for his contributions to legal reforms and public service. His work in the legal field and his commitment to public service made him a respected figure in British politics.
3. Dahlia Ravikovitch
Date of death: August 21, 2005
Dahlia Ravikovitch, born on December 27, 1936, was an Israeli poet renowned for her poignant and lyrical poetry. Ravikovitch’s work often explored themes of personal and national identity, and her contributions to Hebrew literature were widely acclaimed. She received numerous awards for her poetry and remains an important figure in Israeli cultural history.
4. David Ironside
Date of death: August 21, 1996
David Ironside, born on June 15, 1929, was a British actor known for his roles in television and film. Ironside’s career spanned several decades, and he was recognized for his versatile performances and strong presence on screen. His contributions to the performing arts were appreciated by audiences and critics alike.
5. Marcus Schmuck
Marcus Schmuck
Date of death: August 21, 2005
Marcus Schmuck, born on April 24, 1929, was an Austrian geographer and professor. Schmuck’s research focused on geography and regional planning, and he made significant contributions to the understanding of environmental and geographical issues. His work influenced the field of geography and urban planning in Austria and beyond.
6. Martin Dillon
Date of death: August 21, 2015
Martin Dillon, born on January 29, 1948, was an Irish journalist and author known for his work on the Northern Ireland conflict. Dillon’s books and reports provided in-depth analysis and insight into the complexities of the conflict, and he was highly regarded for his investigative journalism and commitment to uncovering the truth.
7. Polly Hill
Date of death: August 21, 2005
Polly Hill, born on October 26, 1924, was a British anthropologist and professor. Hill’s research focused on the anthropology of Africa, particularly in Ghana. She was known for her contributions to the study of social change and development in African societies and played a key role in advancing anthropological research.
8. Robert Moog
Date of death: August 21, 2005
Robert Moog, born on May 23, 1934, was an American engineer and inventor best known for creating the Moog synthesizer. Moog’s innovative work in electronic music synthesis revolutionized the music industry and left a lasting impact on the development of electronic music. His synthesizers are still widely used by musicians and producers today.
9. Paul Fentener van Vlissingen
Date of death: August 21, 2006
Paul Fentener van Vlissingen, born on October 7, 1942, was a Dutch entrepreneur and philanthropist. He was known for his leadership in the retail and real estate industries, as well as his significant contributions to various charitable causes. Van Vlissingen’s business acumen and philanthropic efforts made him a respected figure in the Netherlands and beyond.
10. Caroline Aigle
Caroline Aigle
Date of death: August 21, 2007
Caroline Aigle, born on September 13, 1974, was a French Air Force pilot and astronaut. Aigle was the first female fighter pilot in the French Air Force and was selected as an astronaut by the European Space Agency. Her achievements in both aviation and space exploration paved the way for future generations of women in these fields.
11. Siobhan Dowd
Date of death: August 21, 2007
Siobhan Dowd, born on March 4, 1960, was an Irish author and activist. Dowd’s children’s books, including A Swift Pure Cry and Bog Child, received critical acclaim for their powerful storytelling and exploration of important social issues. Her writing continues to inspire readers and highlight important themes of social justice.
12. Buddy Harman
Date of death: August 21, 2008
Buddy Harman, born on August 23, 1928, was an American drummer known for his work in country music. Harman’s drumming style was influential in shaping the sound of Nashville country music during the 1950s and 1960s. He worked with numerous notable artists and left a lasting legacy in the world of country music.
13. Dean Turner
Date of death: August 21, 2010
Dean Turner, born on March 25, 1927, was an American actor and television personality. Turner appeared in various television shows and films throughout his career, gaining recognition for his engaging performances and charismatic screen presence. His work in the entertainment industry earned him a place in the hearts of many fans.
14. Johnny Carter
Date of death: August 21, 2011
Johnny Carter, born on October 28, 1934, was an American singer and songwriter best known as a member of The Flamingos. Carter’s smooth vocal style and contributions to the rhythm and blues genre made him a key figure in the development of doo-wop and soul music. His work with The Flamingos remains influential in the history of American music.
15. Rex Shelley
Date of death: August 21, 2014
Rex Shelley, born on March 20, 1930, was a Singaporean writer and journalist. Shelley’s novels and short stories often explored themes of cultural identity and historical change in Singapore. His literary contributions helped to shape Singapore’s literary landscape and provide insight into its cultural heritage.
16. Nancy Dolman
Nancy Dolman
Date of death: August 21, 2015
Nancy Dolman, born on September 26, 1951, was a Canadian actress and comedian. Dolman was known for her work on television shows such as SCTV and Soap. Her comedic talent and memorable performances earned her a place in the hearts of television audiences, and she is remembered for her contributions to comedy and entertainment.
17. Georg Leber
Date of death: August 21, 2017
Georg Leber, born on September 17, 1933, was a German politician and member of the Social Democratic Party. Leber served in various political roles, including as Minister of Defense and as a member of the Bundestag. His contributions to German politics and his efforts in defense and security policy were significant during his career.
18. C. Gordon Fullerton
Date of death: August 21, 2019
C. Gordon Fullerton, born on October 15, 1936, was an American astronaut and test pilot. Fullerton flew on two Space Shuttle missions and was involved in the testing of various aircraft and spacecraft. His contributions to aerospace engineering and space exploration were important in advancing human spaceflight.
see also: 16 Famous People Born on August 21
19. Roy Miller
Date of death: August 21, 2020
Roy Miller, born on July 14, 1938, was a British mathematician and educator. Miller’s work in mathematics education and his contributions to the field of number theory were highly regarded. He was known for his research and teaching, which influenced many students and colleagues in the field.
20. Barbara Harris
Date of death: August 21, 2021
Barbara Harris, born on July 25, 1935, was an American actress and singer known for her work on stage and in film. Harris received acclaim for her performances in musicals such as On a Clear Day You Can See Forever and The Apple Tree. Her versatility as an actress and singer made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
21. Norma Croker
Date of death: August 21, 2021
Norma Croker, born on December 12, 1945, was an Australian historian and educator. Croker’s research focused on Australian history and education, and she was known for her contributions to the field of historical research and her work in promoting historical understanding in Australia.
Conclusion
August 21 serves as a day to remember a diverse array of individuals who left their mark on the world through their unique talents and contributions. From groundbreaking scientists and pioneering artists to influential politicians and dedicated activists, each of these 21 celebrities made significant impacts in their fields. Their legacies continue to influence and inspire future generations, and they are remembered for their enduring contributions to society.
FAQs:
What Anniversaries and Holidays Are Celebrated on August 21?
National Senior Citizens Day (USA): This day is dedicated to honoring and recognizing the contributions of senior citizens. It is an opportunity to appreciate their experiences, wisdom, and contributions to society.
International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade: Established by the United Nations, this day commemorates the victims of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade and raises awareness about the history and impact of these atrocities.