From "lion whisperer" Jack Bonavita to "America's first supermodel" Audrey Munson, these fascinating figures from history rarely show up in textbooks.
Buford Pusser
Born on Dec. 12, 1937, in McNairy County, Tennessee, Buford Pusser became the county's sheriff at a young age. He quickly cracked down on local crime — leading to a shooting that killed his wife, Pauline, in 1967.
As depicted in the film Walking Tall, Pusser vowed to exact revenge. He knew the identities of the shooters and their affiliation with the Dixie Mafia. Before long, three out of the four killers turned up dead (the fourth had been sentenced to life in prison for a different murder).
Pusser was never definitively linked to their deaths, however. He died at the young age of 36 when his car veered off the road, an apparent accident which some of his family members think was murder. Wikimedia Commons
As depicted in the film Walking Tall, Pusser vowed to exact revenge. He knew the identities of the shooters and their affiliation with the Dixie Mafia. Before long, three out of the four killers turned up dead (the fourth had been sentenced to life in prison for a different murder).
Pusser was never definitively linked to their deaths, however. He died at the young age of 36 when his car veered off the road, an apparent accident which some of his family members think was murder. Wikimedia Commons
Bass Reeves
Born in Crawford County, Arkansas, in 1838, Bass Reeves escaped enslavement during the Civil War and found refuge in Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma). There, he became one of the greatest lawmen of the Wild West.
Though Reeves couldn't read or write, he purportedly arrested more than 3,000 outlaws and killed 14 criminals during his time as a deputy U.S. Marshal. Reeves used costumes, trickery, and his skill with a gun as he chased down fugitives — to great effect. In fact, some believe that he was the inspiration for the Lone Ranger.
He died in 1910 at the age of 71 of Bright’s disease, a kidney affliction known as nephritis today.Public Domain
Though Reeves couldn't read or write, he purportedly arrested more than 3,000 outlaws and killed 14 criminals during his time as a deputy U.S. Marshal. Reeves used costumes, trickery, and his skill with a gun as he chased down fugitives — to great effect. In fact, some believe that he was the inspiration for the Lone Ranger.
He died in 1910 at the age of 71 of Bright’s disease, a kidney affliction known as nephritis today.Public Domain
Robert Wadlow
Born on Feb. 22, 1918, in Alton, Illinois, Robert Wadlow was a normal size at birth — but he grew to be eight feet, 11 inches tall. Today, he's considered the tallest man to ever live.
Wadlow had hypertrophy of the pituitary gland. Though treatments for this condition exist today, they didn't in Wadlow's time. This meant that he never stopped growing. It also meant that Wadlow suffered from numerous health problems and had to wear leg braces.
In 1940, a blister formed on Wadlow's right ankle because of an ill-fitting brace. The blister led to an infection which took Wadlow's life at the age of just 22. Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images
Wadlow had hypertrophy of the pituitary gland. Though treatments for this condition exist today, they didn't in Wadlow's time. This meant that he never stopped growing. It also meant that Wadlow suffered from numerous health problems and had to wear leg braces.
In 1940, a blister formed on Wadlow's right ankle because of an ill-fitting brace. The blister led to an infection which took Wadlow's life at the age of just 22. Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images
Bessie Coleman
Born in Texas on Jan. 26, 1892, Bessie Coleman became interested in earning her pilot's license after her brother served in France during World War I. He told Coleman that French women had so many liberties they could even fly planes — unlike in America.
Indeed, Coleman couldn't find any pilots who would teach her to fly in the United States. So, she traveled to France. There, she earned her international pilot's license in 1921 and returned to the U.S. as a stunt pilot.
Coleman drew crowds of thousands of awestruck spectators — but she sadly died while practicing for a stunt in 1926. Public Domain
Indeed, Coleman couldn't find any pilots who would teach her to fly in the United States. So, she traveled to France. There, she earned her international pilot's license in 1921 and returned to the U.S. as a stunt pilot.
Coleman drew crowds of thousands of awestruck spectators — but she sadly died while practicing for a stunt in 1926. Public Domain
Cliff Young
Born on Feb. 8, 1922, in Victoria, Australia, Cliff Young grew up on a farm and later became a potato farmer himself. However, he's best known for his unexpected win at the first ultramarathon between Sydney and Melbourne in 1983.
Then 61 years old, Young stood out from the other runners — especially because he ran in a cotton T-shirt and long pants instead of sleek running clothes. But Young's childhood running around his parents' 2,000-acre farm to round up sheep came in handy. To the surprise of all, Young won the race in a record time of five days and 15 hours.
He stayed active for the rest of his life, passing away from cancer on Nov. 2, 2003, at the age of 81.The Age Archives
Then 61 years old, Young stood out from the other runners — especially because he ran in a cotton T-shirt and long pants instead of sleek running clothes. But Young's childhood running around his parents' 2,000-acre farm to round up sheep came in handy. To the surprise of all, Young won the race in a record time of five days and 15 hours.
He stayed active for the rest of his life, passing away from cancer on Nov. 2, 2003, at the age of 81.The Age Archives
Cleisthenes
Born around 570 B.C.E., Cleisthenes was a Greek philosopher known as the "father of Athenian democracy."
In 507 B.C.E., Cleisthenes restructured Athens' political system and introduced demokratia or "rule by the people." He thus ushered in the practice of direct democracy.
He died shortly thereafter in 508 B.C.E.Ohio State House
In 507 B.C.E., Cleisthenes restructured Athens' political system and introduced demokratia or "rule by the people." He thus ushered in the practice of direct democracy.
He died shortly thereafter in 508 B.C.E.Ohio State House
Jack Parsons
Born in Los Angeles on Oct. 2, 1914, Jack Parsons is considered the father of rocketry by many because he invented the rocket fuel that NASA used to power the Space Shuttle. But his story is more bizarre than that.
Parsons was not just a scientist but an occultist. He was a follower of the religious movement Thelema. Parsons and fellow members were purportedly encouraged to engage in bizarre rituals, commune with the Devil, and indulge their desires — especially sexual ones.
During the Cold War, Parsons lost his security clearance because of his "subversive" habits. He died in 1952 in a pyrotechnics accident that also destroyed his lab.Public Domain
Parsons was not just a scientist but an occultist. He was a follower of the religious movement Thelema. Parsons and fellow members were purportedly encouraged to engage in bizarre rituals, commune with the Devil, and indulge their desires — especially sexual ones.
During the Cold War, Parsons lost his security clearance because of his "subversive" habits. He died in 1952 in a pyrotechnics accident that also destroyed his lab.Public Domain
Stagecoach Mary Fields
Born enslaved around 1832 in Hickman County, Tennessee, Mary Fields eventually made her way West, where she became the first Black postwoman in U.S. history.
In the world of the Wild West, this required considerable grit. Fields covered over 300 miles a week to deliver the mail, facing thieves, inclement weather, and wolves. Armed with a revolver and a rifle, the six-foot-tall Fields made sure to protect the mail under her care.
She became a beloved figure in Wild West towns (the mayor of Cascade, Montana, even permitted her to drink at the local saloon, which was prohibited for other women), and her death in 1914 was widely mourned. Public Domain
In the world of the Wild West, this required considerable grit. Fields covered over 300 miles a week to deliver the mail, facing thieves, inclement weather, and wolves. Armed with a revolver and a rifle, the six-foot-tall Fields made sure to protect the mail under her care.
She became a beloved figure in Wild West towns (the mayor of Cascade, Montana, even permitted her to drink at the local saloon, which was prohibited for other women), and her death in 1914 was widely mourned. Public Domain
Nellie Bly
Born on May 5, 1864, as Elizabeth Cochran, Nellie Bly was a pioneering journalist whose incredible stories brought her worldwide fame.
In 1887, Bly went undercover as a patient in an asylum in order to expose abuses there. Two years later, another assignment saw her turn the novel Around the World in Eighty Days into reality when she traveled around the globe herself — in just 72 days.
Bly died on Jan. 27, 1922, at the age of 57.Public Domain
In 1887, Bly went undercover as a patient in an asylum in order to expose abuses there. Two years later, another assignment saw her turn the novel Around the World in Eighty Days into reality when she traveled around the globe herself — in just 72 days.
Bly died on Jan. 27, 1922, at the age of 57.Public Domain
Juliane Koepcke
Born on Oct. 10, 1954, in Lima, Peru, Juliane Koepcke was 17 years old when she survived a devastating plane crash that killed everyone else onboard — and stranded Koepcke alone in the Amazon rainforest.
Although her mother perished in the crash, Koepcke escaped with no serious injuries and was able to keep a clear head. She remembered her father's advice that streams often lead to civilization and followed one until she found help 11 days later.
To date, Koepcke is still alive. She published her account of the crash, When I Fell from the Sky: How the Jungle Gave Me My Life Back, in 2011.Wings of Hope/IMDb
Although her mother perished in the crash, Koepcke escaped with no serious injuries and was able to keep a clear head. She remembered her father's advice that streams often lead to civilization and followed one until she found help 11 days later.
To date, Koepcke is still alive. She published her account of the crash, When I Fell from the Sky: How the Jungle Gave Me My Life Back, in 2011.Wings of Hope/IMDb
Peter Freuchen
Born on Feb. 20, 1886, in Denmark, Peter Freuchen was an explorer, anthropologist, and author who saw enough adventure for several lifetimes.
Freuchen's escapades began at the age of 20 when he traveled to the Arctic and spent years living among the Inuit people. Freuchen wrote over 30 books, joined the Danish resistance movement during World War II, claimed to be Jewish when he witnessed antisemitism, and escaped a Nazi death sentence.
Freuchen died in 1957 of a heart attack at the age of 71.Public Domain
Freuchen's escapades began at the age of 20 when he traveled to the Arctic and spent years living among the Inuit people. Freuchen wrote over 30 books, joined the Danish resistance movement during World War II, claimed to be Jewish when he witnessed antisemitism, and escaped a Nazi death sentence.
Freuchen died in 1957 of a heart attack at the age of 71.Public Domain
Thor Heyerdahl
Born on Oct. 6, 1914, in Larvik, Norway, Thor Heyerdahl developed an early interest in geology and nature. As an adult, he set out to prove that ancient cultures could have communicated with each other — by sailing thousands of miles over treacherous seas.
In order to prove that his theory was at least a possibility, Heyerdahl sailed from Peru to French Polynesia in 1947 in little more than a raft, a journey which took 101 days. Heyerdahl embarked on a number of similar voyages in pursuit of his theory, which he felt he'd proven by the end of his life (though many modern-day academics disagree).
Heyerdahl died on April 18, 2002, at the age of 87 after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. ullstein bild/ullstein bild via Getty Images
In order to prove that his theory was at least a possibility, Heyerdahl sailed from Peru to French Polynesia in 1947 in little more than a raft, a journey which took 101 days. Heyerdahl embarked on a number of similar voyages in pursuit of his theory, which he felt he'd proven by the end of his life (though many modern-day academics disagree).
Heyerdahl died on April 18, 2002, at the age of 87 after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. ullstein bild/ullstein bild via Getty Images
Mary Ellen Pleasant
Mary Ellen Pleasant claimed she was born on Aug. 19, 1814, in Philadelphia. Though she started working as a domestic servant at a young age, Pleasant would eventually become a millionaire thanks to her savvy investment strategies.
Having inherited a sizable sum from her first husband after his death, Pleasant moved to San Francisco and found work as a cook, where she listened to the finance tips swapped by her white clients. Pleasant started investing her money and buying businesses like boarding houses. She and her business partner, Thomas Bell, earned $30 million — more than $850 million in today's currency.
Sadly, Pleasant lost her share of the fortune after her business partner's sudden death. His wife sued for his assets, and Pleasant died in 1904 with little left to her name.Public Domain
Having inherited a sizable sum from her first husband after his death, Pleasant moved to San Francisco and found work as a cook, where she listened to the finance tips swapped by her white clients. Pleasant started investing her money and buying businesses like boarding houses. She and her business partner, Thomas Bell, earned $30 million — more than $850 million in today's currency.
Sadly, Pleasant lost her share of the fortune after her business partner's sudden death. His wife sued for his assets, and Pleasant died in 1904 with little left to her name.Public Domain
Harold Gillies
Born June 17, 1882, in New Zealand, Harold Gillies was a pioneering plastic surgeon who helped treat World War I veterans with horrific facial injuries.
Advancements in military technology meant that some 280,000 soldiers returned home disfigured. To help, Gillies developed a number of new surgical methods and ultimately performed more than 11,000 operations for over 5,000 men.
He spent his whole life helping veterans of both world wars, and he died on Sept. 10, 1960, at the age of 78.National Army Museum
Advancements in military technology meant that some 280,000 soldiers returned home disfigured. To help, Gillies developed a number of new surgical methods and ultimately performed more than 11,000 operations for over 5,000 men.
He spent his whole life helping veterans of both world wars, and he died on Sept. 10, 1960, at the age of 78.National Army Museum
Jules Brunet
Born on Jan. 2, 1838, in Belfort, France, Jules Brunet was a French soldier who joined forces with Japanese samurai against Meiji imperialists.
Originally sent to Japan to help modernize the country's army, Brunet ended up fighting against the emperor on the side of the Tokugawa shogunate. Though they lost the war, Brunet's story was depicted in the film The Last Samurai.
He returned to France at the end of the war and died in 1911.Public Domain
Originally sent to Japan to help modernize the country's army, Brunet ended up fighting against the emperor on the side of the Tokugawa shogunate. Though they lost the war, Brunet's story was depicted in the film The Last Samurai.
He returned to France at the end of the war and died in 1911.Public Domain
Joe Medicine Crow
Born on the Crow Reservation in Montana in 1913, Joe Medicine Crow started his life as an academic — but he became the last Plains Indian war chief in history.
After studying history and anthropology, Joe Medicine Crow went to fight in World War II, where he passed the four tests required to become a Crow chief: touch a living enemy, steal an enemy's weapon, lead a war party, and take an enemy's horse. Later, he also became the official Crow Nation historian and anthropologist.
Joe Medicine Crow died in 2016 at 102 having been awarded a Bronze Star, the French Legion of Honor, and, later, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.Pete Souza/The White House
After studying history and anthropology, Joe Medicine Crow went to fight in World War II, where he passed the four tests required to become a Crow chief: touch a living enemy, steal an enemy's weapon, lead a war party, and take an enemy's horse. Later, he also became the official Crow Nation historian and anthropologist.
Joe Medicine Crow died in 2016 at 102 having been awarded a Bronze Star, the French Legion of Honor, and, later, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.Pete Souza/The White House
Roy Benavidez
Born on Aug. 5, 1935, in Cuero, Texas, Roy Benavidez proved his bravery not once but twice during the Vietnam War.
During his first deployment in 1965, he stepped on a landmine and was told he would never walk again. Instead, Benavidez returned to duty in 1968, when he rushed to save a Special Forces team during "six hours in Hell." He was so badly injured that medics almost zipped him into a body bag.
He died on Nov. 29, 1998, having been awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and the Medal of Honor.U.S. Army
During his first deployment in 1965, he stepped on a landmine and was told he would never walk again. Instead, Benavidez returned to duty in 1968, when he rushed to save a Special Forces team during "six hours in Hell." He was so badly injured that medics almost zipped him into a body bag.
He died on Nov. 29, 1998, having been awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and the Medal of Honor.U.S. Army
Shavarsh Karapetyan
Born on May 19, 1953, in Armenia, Shavarsh Karapetyan was a champion finswimmer who leapt into action when a trolleybus plunged into Yerevan Lake in Armenia in 1976.
Karapetyan, who was 23 at the time, was jogging when he witnessed the accident. He immediately dove into the water and pulled 37 people out, 20 of whom survived.
His heroism went unnoticed until the 1980s, when a journalist reported on the story. The Soviet Union then awarded him Order of the Badge of Honor. Aurora Humanitarian Initiative
Karapetyan, who was 23 at the time, was jogging when he witnessed the accident. He immediately dove into the water and pulled 37 people out, 20 of whom survived.
His heroism went unnoticed until the 1980s, when a journalist reported on the story. The Soviet Union then awarded him Order of the Badge of Honor. Aurora Humanitarian Initiative
Molly Brown
Born on July 18, 1867, in Hannibal, Missouri, Molly Brown was an American socialite whose bravery made her one of the heroes of the RMS Titanic disaster.
As the ship sank on the morning of April 15, 1912, Brown took care of her fellow survivors while they drifted in a lifeboat, and she later encouraged the ship's wealthiest passengers to donate to those who had lost everything.
She died of a brain tumor on Oct. 26, 1932, leaving behind a legacy as a philanthropist, a prospective Senate candidate, and an actress.Public Domain
As the ship sank on the morning of April 15, 1912, Brown took care of her fellow survivors while they drifted in a lifeboat, and she later encouraged the ship's wealthiest passengers to donate to those who had lost everything.
She died of a brain tumor on Oct. 26, 1932, leaving behind a legacy as a philanthropist, a prospective Senate candidate, and an actress.Public Domain
Pope Leo I
Born around 400 C.E., Leo I was the pope for 21 years.
Though many popes have made their mark on the history of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo has been heralded as one of the most important. Aside from issuing transformative documents, Pope Leo single-handedly persuaded Attila the Hun to back down from his invasion of Italy.
He died on Nov. 10, 461, at the age of approximately 60. Public Domain
Though many popes have made their mark on the history of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo has been heralded as one of the most important. Aside from issuing transformative documents, Pope Leo single-handedly persuaded Attila the Hun to back down from his invasion of Italy.
He died on Nov. 10, 461, at the age of approximately 60. Public Domain
John "Chickie" Donohue
Born in 1941 in New York City, John "Chickie" Donohue
decided one day to deliver beer to troops in Vietnam.
In 1967, he traveled thousands of miles from New York City to Qui Nhon to bring beer to friends of his serving in the war. Then, just as incredibly, Donohue returned home unscathed.
His story was later portrayed in the 2022 film The Greatest Beer Run Ever starring Zac Efron.Pabst Blue Ribbon/YouTube
In 1967, he traveled thousands of miles from New York City to Qui Nhon to bring beer to friends of his serving in the war. Then, just as incredibly, Donohue returned home unscathed.
His story was later portrayed in the 2022 film The Greatest Beer Run Ever starring Zac Efron.Pabst Blue Ribbon/YouTube
Billy The Kid
Born around 1859 as Henry McCarty, Billy the Kid later became one of the Wild West's most notorious outlaws.
During his short life, Billy the Kid claimed to have killed 21 people (the real number may be closer to nine) and was renowned for his ability as an escape artist.
His past caught up to him on July 14, 1881, when Billy the Kid was killed at the age of 21 by Sheriff Pat Garrett. Public Domain
During his short life, Billy the Kid claimed to have killed 21 people (the real number may be closer to nine) and was renowned for his ability as an escape artist.
His past caught up to him on July 14, 1881, when Billy the Kid was killed at the age of 21 by Sheriff Pat Garrett. Public Domain
Chuck Mawhinney
Born in 1949 in Lakeview, Oregon, Chuck Mawhinney is the deadliest sniper in the history of the U.S. Marine Corps.
A sniper during the Vietnam War, Mawhinney has 103 confirmed kills to his name — including 16 kills in a mere 30 seconds. Mawhinney was quiet about his record after the war, and his story didn't emerge until the 1990s.
He died in 2024 at the age of 74.United States Marine Corps
A sniper during the Vietnam War, Mawhinney has 103 confirmed kills to his name — including 16 kills in a mere 30 seconds. Mawhinney was quiet about his record after the war, and his story didn't emerge until the 1990s.
He died in 2024 at the age of 74.United States Marine Corps
Corrie Ten Boom
Born on April 15, 1892, in the Netherlands, Corrie ten Boom was a Dutch watchmaker who saved 800 Jewish people during World War II.
As members of the Dutch resistance, ten Boom and her family opened up their home and provided shelter to Dutch Jews fleeing the Nazis. Ten Boom, her father, and her sister were eventually found out and sent to concentration camps.
Though ten Boom's father and sister perished, ten Boom survived and lived until April 15, 1983. All three were recognized as one of Yad Vashem’s Righteousness Among the Nations.Yad Vashem/The World Holocaust Remembrance Center
As members of the Dutch resistance, ten Boom and her family opened up their home and provided shelter to Dutch Jews fleeing the Nazis. Ten Boom, her father, and her sister were eventually found out and sent to concentration camps.
Though ten Boom's father and sister perished, ten Boom survived and lived until April 15, 1983. All three were recognized as one of Yad Vashem’s Righteousness Among the Nations.Yad Vashem/The World Holocaust Remembrance Center
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
Born on May 20, 1959, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Israel Kamakawiwo'ole was a Hawaiian singer best known for his rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow."
Kamakawiwo'ole recorded his version of the famous song in 1988, and it swiftly became a huge hit.
Sadly, Kamakawiwo'ole died at just 38 years old on June 26, 1997.Universal Music
Kamakawiwo'ole recorded his version of the famous song in 1988, and it swiftly became a huge hit.
Sadly, Kamakawiwo'ole died at just 38 years old on June 26, 1997.Universal Music
Audrey Munson
Born on June 8, 1891, in Rochester, New York, Audrey Munson was a model and actress known as the "American Venus" and "America's first supermodel."
Munson was the inspiration for at least 12 statues in New York City and hundreds more across the country. She also paved the way for other models and actresses when she became the first woman to appear nude on screen.
Institutionalized in 1931, Munson spent more than 60 years in an asylum before her death on Feb. 20, 1996, at the age of 104.Public Domain
Munson was the inspiration for at least 12 statues in New York City and hundreds more across the country. She also paved the way for other models and actresses when she became the first woman to appear nude on screen.
Institutionalized in 1931, Munson spent more than 60 years in an asylum before her death on Feb. 20, 1996, at the age of 104.Public Domain
Daryl Davis
Born on March 26, 1958, in Chicago, Daryl Davis made it his life's mission to befriend and convert members of white supremacy organizations like the KKK.
In Davis' telling, he's converted some 200 people by asking a simple question: "How can you hate me when you don't even know me?"
As of publication, Davis is still alive. Outside of activism, he's also an R&B and blues musician.Daryl Davis
In Davis' telling, he's converted some 200 people by asking a simple question: "How can you hate me when you don't even know me?"
As of publication, Davis is still alive. Outside of activism, he's also an R&B and blues musician.Daryl Davis
Cudjo Lewis
Born in 1841 in the Bantè region of West Africa (present-day Benin) as Oluale Kossola, Cudjo Lewis was one of the last survivors of America's slave ships.
Abducted by illegal slavers in 1860, Lewis was enslaved in Alabama until the end of the Civil War. Then, he and others established Africatown, a community where they could maintain their native culture.
His story was later told by Zora Neale Hurston. Lewis died on July 17, 1935, at the age of 95.University of South Alabama
Abducted by illegal slavers in 1860, Lewis was enslaved in Alabama until the end of the Civil War. Then, he and others established Africatown, a community where they could maintain their native culture.
His story was later told by Zora Neale Hurston. Lewis died on July 17, 1935, at the age of 95.University of South Alabama
Stephan Bibrowski
Born in 1890 in Poland, Stephan Bibrowski had a condition called hypertrichosis — or "werewolf disease" — that resulted in hair covering his entire body from birth.
Bibrowski made his livelihood by touring with the Barnum & Bailey Circus and the Ringling Brothers, but he also had another side: He dreamed of becoming a dentist and could speak five languages.
He died in 1932 at the age of 41, purportedly from a heart attack.Public Domain
Bibrowski made his livelihood by touring with the Barnum & Bailey Circus and the Ringling Brothers, but he also had another side: He dreamed of becoming a dentist and could speak five languages.
He died in 1932 at the age of 41, purportedly from a heart attack.Public Domain
Annie Edson Taylor
Born on Oct. 24, 1838, Annie Edson Taylor was the first person to survive traveling over Niagara Falls in a barrel.
She made her successful attempt in 1901 on her 63rd birthday. After she was fished out of the water, she told reporters that she would "caution anyone against attempting the feat."
Taylor died on April 29, 1921, at the age of 82. Despite her hopes that her daredevil feat would be financially lucrative, Taylor died penniless. Public Domain
She made her successful attempt in 1901 on her 63rd birthday. After she was fished out of the water, she told reporters that she would "caution anyone against attempting the feat."
Taylor died on April 29, 1921, at the age of 82. Despite her hopes that her daredevil feat would be financially lucrative, Taylor died penniless. Public Domain
Aleister Crowley
Born Edward Alexander Crowley in 1875, Aleister Crowley was an infamous English occultist who horrified many of his countrymen with his attitude toward drugs, sex, and magic.
He founded a religion, Thelema, which encouraged its followers to "do what thou wilt." Crowley and his supporters experimented with sex, drugs, and a series of wild rituals.
He died on Dec. 1, 1947, at the age of 72.Keystone/Getty Images
He founded a religion, Thelema, which encouraged its followers to "do what thou wilt." Crowley and his supporters experimented with sex, drugs, and a series of wild rituals.
He died on Dec. 1, 1947, at the age of 72.Keystone/Getty Images
Martin Couney
Born in 1869 in Poland, Martin Couney saved thousands of premature babies — as part of a sideshow exhibit.
By the turn of the century, Couney was living in the United States, where people flocked to see his "incubator" exhibits. The show was technically for entertainment (people paid 25 cents for entry), but Couney's work saved countless lives and revolutionized treatment of premature babies.
Couney died in 1950 at the age of 80. New York Public Library
By the turn of the century, Couney was living in the United States, where people flocked to see his "incubator" exhibits. The show was technically for entertainment (people paid 25 cents for entry), but Couney's work saved countless lives and revolutionized treatment of premature babies.
Couney died in 1950 at the age of 80. New York Public Library
Edith Wilson
Born on Oct. 15, 1872, Edith Wilson was the second wife of President Woodrow Wilson, and many believe she acted in his stead as he recovered from a stroke.
After the president suffered a stroke in 1919, Edith became his caretaker and a "steward" of his presidency by deciding which issues were important enough to bring to him.
She died on Dec. 28, 1961, at age 89, and she is buried next to her husband at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Public Domain
After the president suffered a stroke in 1919, Edith became his caretaker and a "steward" of his presidency by deciding which issues were important enough to bring to him.
She died on Dec. 28, 1961, at age 89, and she is buried next to her husband at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Public Domain
Jason Vukovich
Born on June 25, 1975, Jason Vukovich became known as the "Alaskan Avenger" after he started tracking down and attacking sex offenders listed on Canada's national registry.
A survivor of childhood sexual and physical abuse himself, Vukovich had an "overwhelming desire to act" against sex offenders and attacked three people before his arrest in 2016.
He's since spoken out against violence and vigilantism. However, despite petitions for his release, he remains in jail to this day.Change.org
A survivor of childhood sexual and physical abuse himself, Vukovich had an "overwhelming desire to act" against sex offenders and attacked three people before his arrest in 2016.
He's since spoken out against violence and vigilantism. However, despite petitions for his release, he remains in jail to this day.Change.org
Dick Winters
Born on Jan. 21, 1918, in New Holland, Pennsylvania, Richard "Dick" Winters was a member of Easy Company, the World War II unit featured in Band of Brothers.
During the war, Winters led the 101st Airborne Division, which battled Nazis on D-Day, liberated concentration camps, and raided Adolf Hitler's Eagle's Nest.
Winters remained humble about his service all his life. He died on Jan. 2, 2011, at the age of 92.U.S. Army
During the war, Winters led the 101st Airborne Division, which battled Nazis on D-Day, liberated concentration camps, and raided Adolf Hitler's Eagle's Nest.
Winters remained humble about his service all his life. He died on Jan. 2, 2011, at the age of 92.U.S. Army
Paul Alexander
Born on Jan. 30, 1946, in Dallas, Texas, Paul Alexander spent the majority of his life in an iron lung.
Alexander contracted polio at the age of six in 1952, which paralyzed him from the neck down for the rest of his life. Despite this, Alexander became a lawyer, wrote a memoir, and became active on social media.
He died in 2024 shortly after contracting COVID-19. Paul Alexander
Alexander contracted polio at the age of six in 1952, which paralyzed him from the neck down for the rest of his life. Despite this, Alexander became a lawyer, wrote a memoir, and became active on social media.
He died in 2024 shortly after contracting COVID-19. Paul Alexander
Violet Bonham Carter
Born on April 15, 1887, Violet Bonham Carter — the grandmother of actress Helena Bonham Carter — was an outspoken orator and politician.
She spoke out against the Treaty of Versaille and Nazi Germany — leading Hitler to add her to his "black book" of Britons he would imprison if he ever invaded England — ran for a seat in the House of Commons, and later entered the House of Lords.
She died on Feb. 19, 1969, at the age of 81.Public Domain
She spoke out against the Treaty of Versaille and Nazi Germany — leading Hitler to add her to his "black book" of Britons he would imprison if he ever invaded England — ran for a seat in the House of Commons, and later entered the House of Lords.
She died on Feb. 19, 1969, at the age of 81.Public Domain
Percy Julian
Born on April 11, 1899, Percy Julian was a pioneering Black chemist.
A doctor living under Jim Crow laws, Julian developed the chemical synthesis of hormones like progesterone and testosterone. His research also laid the groundwork for modern-day steroids, and Julian later became the first African American chemist inducted into the National Academy of Sciences.
Julian died on April 19, 1975, at the age of 76.Public Domain
A doctor living under Jim Crow laws, Julian developed the chemical synthesis of hormones like progesterone and testosterone. His research also laid the groundwork for modern-day steroids, and Julian later became the first African American chemist inducted into the National Academy of Sciences.
Julian died on April 19, 1975, at the age of 76.Public Domain
Margaret Howe Lovatt
Born in 1942, Margaret Howe Lovatt was the research assistant to Dr. John C. Lilly, who set out on an experiment to prove that dolphins could be taught English.
Lovatt lived in close quarters with a dolphin for almost two months to try to teach him to speak, but the experiment ultimately failed.BBC/YouTube
Lovatt lived in close quarters with a dolphin for almost two months to try to teach him to speak, but the experiment ultimately failed.BBC/YouTube
Lonnie Johnson
Born on Oct. 6, 1949, in Alabama, Lonnie Johnson overcame segregation to become a NASA engineer — but that's not what he's best known for.
While at NASA, Johnson invented the the Super Soaker while carrying out an unrelated experiment at home. The water gun became a popular toy that has earned more than $1 billion.Thomas S. England/The LIFE Images Collection via Getty Images/Getty Images
While at NASA, Johnson invented the the Super Soaker while carrying out an unrelated experiment at home. The water gun became a popular toy that has earned more than $1 billion.Thomas S. England/The LIFE Images Collection via Getty Images/Getty Images
Calvin Graham
Born on April 3, 1930, Calvin Graham enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II — when he was just 12 years old.
Graham had lied his way into the service, but once he was there, he showed bravery in battle and earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star. His service ended, however, when his mother realized where he was and notified his superiors.
Graham died on Nov. 6, 1992, at the age of 62.Public Domain
Graham had lied his way into the service, but once he was there, he showed bravery in battle and earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star. His service ended, however, when his mother realized where he was and notified his superiors.
Graham died on Nov. 6, 1992, at the age of 62.Public Domain
Bessie Stringfield
Either born in Jamaica in 1911 or the United States in 1912,
Bessie Stringfield became known as the the "motorcycle queen" of the 1930s.
She learned to ride a motorcycle at 16 and spent her life driving it across the U.S. When authorities in Miami balked at giving her a motorcycle license in 1950, Stringfield showed them a number of impressive motorcycle tricks until they changed their minds.
Stringfield kept riding motorcycles until her death in 1993 at the age of 81.AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame
She learned to ride a motorcycle at 16 and spent her life driving it across the U.S. When authorities in Miami balked at giving her a motorcycle license in 1950, Stringfield showed them a number of impressive motorcycle tricks until they changed their minds.
Stringfield kept riding motorcycles until her death in 1993 at the age of 81.AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame
George Boldt
Born in Prussia in 1851, George Boldt became an American millionaire who decided to build a castle for his wife, Louise.
He constructed Boldt Castle, a fairytale structure with 120 rooms, on an island in the Saint Lawrence River. Sadly, Louise died unexpectedly at the age of 42 before the castle was complete.
Boldt died in 1916; his castle, abandoned for decades, has since been restored.Public Domain
He constructed Boldt Castle, a fairytale structure with 120 rooms, on an island in the Saint Lawrence River. Sadly, Louise died unexpectedly at the age of 42 before the castle was complete.
Boldt died in 1916; his castle, abandoned for decades, has since been restored.Public Domain
Salvador Dalí
Born on May 11, 1904, in Spain, Salvador Dalí was a surrealist artist in the 20th century.
He was known for both his eccentric behavior — like walking an anteater in Paris — and his paintings like The Persistence of Memory, which depicts melting clocks.
Dalí died on Jan. 23, 1989, at the age of 84.Public Domain
He was known for both his eccentric behavior — like walking an anteater in Paris — and his paintings like The Persistence of Memory, which depicts melting clocks.
Dalí died on Jan. 23, 1989, at the age of 84.Public Domain
Judith Love Cohen
Born on Aug. 16, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, Judith Love Cohen was the mother of actor Jack Black — and an aerospace engineer who helped save Apollo 13.
Cohen helped design the Abort Guidance System. When Apollo 13 lost power in 1970, Mission Control used Cohen's navigation system to make it safely back to Earth.
Cohen died on July 25, 2016, at the age of 82.Wikimedia Commons
Cohen helped design the Abort Guidance System. When Apollo 13 lost power in 1970, Mission Control used Cohen's navigation system to make it safely back to Earth.
Cohen died on July 25, 2016, at the age of 82.Wikimedia Commons
Olive Oatman
Born on Sept. 7, 1837, Olive Oatman was a Mormon pioneer who was captured by Native Americans in 1851.
Enslaved by the Yavapai, Oatman eventually spent four years with the Mohave, who gave her a tattoo on her chin.
Oatman was released when she was 19, and she died on March 21, 1903, at the age of 65.Public Domain
Enslaved by the Yavapai, Oatman eventually spent four years with the Mohave, who gave her a tattoo on her chin.
Oatman was released when she was 19, and she died on March 21, 1903, at the age of 65.Public Domain
Hedy Lamarr
Born on Nov. 9, 1914, in Austria-Hungary, Hedy Lamarr was an American actress who later became a scientist.
Lamarr may have gotten her start on the silver screen, but her larger legacy is much more important. After she immigrated to the United States from Austria, Lamarr devoted her life to science, working to create something called "spread spectrum technology" — the precursor to modern-day Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Lamarr died on Jan. 19, 2000, at the age of 85.Public Domain
Lamarr may have gotten her start on the silver screen, but her larger legacy is much more important. After she immigrated to the United States from Austria, Lamarr devoted her life to science, working to create something called "spread spectrum technology" — the precursor to modern-day Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Lamarr died on Jan. 19, 2000, at the age of 85.Public Domain
Harry Haft
Born in Poland on July 28, 1925, Harry Haft was a Jewish boxer who was forced to fight for his life in Nazi concentration camps.
Haft participated in some 76 fights for the entertainment of Nazi guards — and he won them all. His opponents, however, were executed.
After the war, Haft continued his career as a boxer in the United States. He died in 2007.Publicity Photo
Haft participated in some 76 fights for the entertainment of Nazi guards — and he won them all. His opponents, however, were executed.
After the war, Haft continued his career as a boxer in the United States. He died in 2007.Publicity Photo
Ching Shih
Born in 1775 in Guangdong Province, China, Ching Shih was a Chinese sex worker who ended up taking over her husband's fleet and becoming one of the most successful pirate lords in history.
Her fleet included hundreds of ships and between 40,000 and 60,000 pirates who regularly battled with world powers like the East India Company and the Portuguese Empire.
She died in 1844 around the age of 68.Public Domain
Her fleet included hundreds of ships and between 40,000 and 60,000 pirates who regularly battled with world powers like the East India Company and the Portuguese Empire.
She died in 1844 around the age of 68.Public Domain
Jacqueline Jenkins-Nye
Born in 1921, Jacqueline Jenkins-Nye was the mother of Bill Nye — and a "Goucher girl" recruited by the Navy to decipher Japanese and German codes during World War II.
Jenkins-Nye and a dozen other women from Goucher College cracked a number of important codes, including one that helped U.S. fighter pilots kill Isoroku Yamamoto, the man who had plotted the Pearl Harbor attacks.
She died in 2000 at the age of 79.National Cryptologic Foundation
Jenkins-Nye and a dozen other women from Goucher College cracked a number of important codes, including one that helped U.S. fighter pilots kill Isoroku Yamamoto, the man who had plotted the Pearl Harbor attacks.
She died in 2000 at the age of 79.National Cryptologic Foundation
Esther Jones
Born in 1919 or 1920 in Chicago, Esther Jones is best known as the inspiration for the famous cartoon character Betty Boop.
However, her tagline — "Boop-Boop-a-Doop" — was copied by a white actress named Helen Kane, who was long acknowledged as the cartoon's inspiration.
Jones died in 1984 in relative obscurity. Public Domain
However, her tagline — "Boop-Boop-a-Doop" — was copied by a white actress named Helen Kane, who was long acknowledged as the cartoon's inspiration.
Jones died in 1984 in relative obscurity. Public Domain
Jean Libbera
Jean Libbera was born in Rome in 1884 — with a parasitic twin attached to his abdomen.
He later performed in "freak shows" in Europe and the United States in which Libbera and his "twin" would wear matching suits.
He died sometime between 1934 and 1936 around age 50.Public Domain
He later performed in "freak shows" in Europe and the United States in which Libbera and his "twin" would wear matching suits.
He died sometime between 1934 and 1936 around age 50.Public Domain
Richard Bong
Born on Sept. 24, 1920, Richard "Dick" Bong was a fighter pilot ace during World War II.
During the war, Bong downed 40 enemy planes in over 200 flying missions. He was awarded numerous medals, including the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Silver Star.
Bong died in a training accident at the very end of World War II on Aug. 6, 1945, at the age of 24. Public Domain
During the war, Bong downed 40 enemy planes in over 200 flying missions. He was awarded numerous medals, including the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Silver Star.
Bong died in a training accident at the very end of World War II on Aug. 6, 1945, at the age of 24. Public Domain
Neerja Bhanot
Born on Sept. 7, 1963, in Chandigarh, India, Neerja Bhanot was a heroic flight attendant who perished during the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 in September 1986.
During the hijacking on Sept. 5, 1986, which took place on the Karachi Airport tarmac in Pakistan, Bhanot hid the passports of the targeted U.S. passengers, helped the people onboard escape, and was killed while shielding children from the hijacker's guns.
She was 22 years old at the time.Instagram/SonamKapoor
During the hijacking on Sept. 5, 1986, which took place on the Karachi Airport tarmac in Pakistan, Bhanot hid the passports of the targeted U.S. passengers, helped the people onboard escape, and was killed while shielding children from the hijacker's guns.
She was 22 years old at the time.Instagram/SonamKapoor
Stephen Wiltshire
Born in London in 1974, Stephen Wiltshire was diagnosed with autism at a young age — but as an adult, he showed an incredible ability to draw cities from memory.
Wiltshire published his first book when he was just 13 and spends much of his time now sketching cityscapes.Stephen Wiltshire
Wiltshire published his first book when he was just 13 and spends much of his time now sketching cityscapes.Stephen Wiltshire
Nikola Tesla
Born on July 10, 1856, an ethnic Serb in present-day Croatia, Nikola Tesla was a profoundly talented inventor whose ideas changed the world.
He invented the alternating current (AC) electricity supply system — which powers homes and businesses even today — and the induction motor, which is a key component of modern devices like vacuum cleaners and hair dryers.
Sadly, Tesla died alone and impoverished in 1943 in New York City.Public Domain
He invented the alternating current (AC) electricity supply system — which powers homes and businesses even today — and the induction motor, which is a key component of modern devices like vacuum cleaners and hair dryers.
Sadly, Tesla died alone and impoverished in 1943 in New York City.Public Domain
Johnny Appleseed
Born as John Chapman on Sept. 26, 1774, Johnny Appleseed is an American folk hero known for planting apples across the American Midwest.
Appleseed, an eccentric figure, cultivated orchards to sell to settlers and planted apple trees that were used to make hard apple cider.
He died on March 18, 1845, at the age of 70.Public Domain
Appleseed, an eccentric figure, cultivated orchards to sell to settlers and planted apple trees that were used to make hard apple cider.
He died on March 18, 1845, at the age of 70.Public Domain
Ram Dass
Born Richard Alpert on on April 6, 1931, in Boston, Ram Dass became a counterculture icon in the 1960s.
An early proponent of LSD, Dass became an author and cultural guru of sorts who gave lectures across the country.
Dass died on Dec. 22, 2019. Denver Post Archives/Getty Images
An early proponent of LSD, Dass became an author and cultural guru of sorts who gave lectures across the country.
Dass died on Dec. 22, 2019. Denver Post Archives/Getty Images
Henry Johnson
Born in July 1892, Henry Johnson was a distinguished member of the Harlem Hellfighters, the fierce Black World War I unit.
Johnson and another soldier, Needham Roberts, were on guard duty in 1918 when they bravely prevented a much larger German unit from breaking through French lines. For this, the French awarded Johnson the Croix de Guerre, and Theodore Roosevelt called him one of the "five bravest Americans" to serve in World War I.
Sadly, Johnson died in 1929 at the age of just 36.U.S. Army
Johnson and another soldier, Needham Roberts, were on guard duty in 1918 when they bravely prevented a much larger German unit from breaking through French lines. For this, the French awarded Johnson the Croix de Guerre, and Theodore Roosevelt called him one of the "five bravest Americans" to serve in World War I.
Sadly, Johnson died in 1929 at the age of just 36.U.S. Army
Assata Shakur
Born in 1947 as JoAnne Deborah Byron, Assata Shakur is Tupac's godmother — and a wanted fugitive.
A member of the Black Liberation Army, Shakur was found guilty of the 1973 shooting of a state trooper in New Jersey. Though imprisoned, Shakur was able to escape.
She now lives in Cuba, where she has been granted political asylum. Frank Hurley/NY Daily News Archive via Getty
A member of the Black Liberation Army, Shakur was found guilty of the 1973 shooting of a state trooper in New Jersey. Though imprisoned, Shakur was able to escape.
She now lives in Cuba, where she has been granted political asylum. Frank Hurley/NY Daily News Archive via Getty
Doris Miller
Born on Oct. 12, 1919, in Waco, Texas, Doris Miller became an unlikely hero during the Pearl Harbor attack of 1941.
Because of his race, Miller was restricted to mess hall duty. However, he leapt into action during the attack, helping his fellow sailors evacuate and even turning the ship's guns on the Japanese planes.
He died in action on Nov. 24, 1943, and he was posthumously honored in 2020 when the U.S. Navy made him the first Black man in American history to have an aircraft carrier named after him.U.S. Navy
Because of his race, Miller was restricted to mess hall duty. However, he leapt into action during the attack, helping his fellow sailors evacuate and even turning the ship's guns on the Japanese planes.
He died in action on Nov. 24, 1943, and he was posthumously honored in 2020 when the U.S. Navy made him the first Black man in American history to have an aircraft carrier named after him.U.S. Navy
Violet Jessop
Born on Oct. 2, 1887, Violet Jessop survived the sinking of multiple ships, including the Titanic.
Jessop was a stewardess who worked for the White Star Line in the early 1900s. She was aboard the Titanic when it sank. She was also aboard its two sister ships, the Britannic and the Olympic, when they crashed.
Jessop died — on land — on May 5, 1971, at age 83.Public Domain
Jessop was a stewardess who worked for the White Star Line in the early 1900s. She was aboard the Titanic when it sank. She was also aboard its two sister ships, the Britannic and the Olympic, when they crashed.
Jessop died — on land — on May 5, 1971, at age 83.Public Domain
Mary Anning
Born on May 21, 1799, Mary Anning was a fossil collector and one of the first female paleontologists.
Her most important discovery was that of an ichthyosaur skeleton, the first one ever to be correctly identified.
She died on March 9, 1847, from breast cancer.Public Domain
Her most important discovery was that of an ichthyosaur skeleton, the first one ever to be correctly identified.
She died on March 9, 1847, from breast cancer.Public Domain
Franz Reichelt
Born in 1878 in Austria-Hungary, Franz Reichelt tried — and failed — to create a parachute for airplane pilots.
After much experimentation, Reichelt attempted to try out his invention by leaping from the Eiffel Tower on Feb. 4, 1912.
He plummeted to his death that day at the age of 33.Public Domain
After much experimentation, Reichelt attempted to try out his invention by leaping from the Eiffel Tower on Feb. 4, 1912.
He plummeted to his death that day at the age of 33.Public Domain
Miriam Rodriguez
Born in 1960 in Mexico, Miriam Rodriguez dedicated her life to finding her daughter's killers — and was killed herself in the process.
After her daughter Karen was kidnapped and murdered in 2012, Rodriguez fearlessly hunted down 10 cartel members who'd been involved in her abduction.
Sadly, Rodriguez was targeted by other cartel members seeking revenge and was fatally shot on May 10, 2017.San Fernando Missing Persons Activists Collective
After her daughter Karen was kidnapped and murdered in 2012, Rodriguez fearlessly hunted down 10 cartel members who'd been involved in her abduction.
Sadly, Rodriguez was targeted by other cartel members seeking revenge and was fatally shot on May 10, 2017.San Fernando Missing Persons Activists Collective
John Robert Fox
Born May 18, 1915, in Cincinnati, Ohio, John Robert Fox was a Black World War II soldier who sacrificed himself in order to kill 100 Nazi soldiers in Sommocolonia, Italy.
On Dec. 26, 1944, Fox ordered his men to retreat in the face of a much larger Nazi force and then gave his own coordinates for an artillery strike — even though he knew it would cost him his life.
Fox died that day and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 1997.Congressional Medal of Honor Society
On Dec. 26, 1944, Fox ordered his men to retreat in the face of a much larger Nazi force and then gave his own coordinates for an artillery strike — even though he knew it would cost him his life.
Fox died that day and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 1997.Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Betty Brosmer
Born on Aug. 2, 1935, in Pasadena, California, Betty Brosmer was known as a pin-up model with an "impossible waist" — but she was much more than that.
Brosmer was the highest-paid pin-up model in mid-century America, helped popularize the now-famous fitness magazine Shape, and wrote columns about bodybuilding and fitness.
In 2014, Brosmer was inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame.Pierre Tourigny/Flickr
Brosmer was the highest-paid pin-up model in mid-century America, helped popularize the now-famous fitness magazine Shape, and wrote columns about bodybuilding and fitness.
In 2014, Brosmer was inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame.Pierre Tourigny/Flickr
Jack Bonavita
Born in 1866, Jack Bonavita was a 20th-century lion tamer who awed crowds with his dangerous feats.
One of Bonavita's most famous acts was when he sat surrounded by 13 lions. However, the work was dangerous, and Bonavita once had his arm torn off when he looked away from one of the creatures for too long.
Bonavita died on March 19, 1917, after being attacked by a polar bear. Public Domain
One of Bonavita's most famous acts was when he sat surrounded by 13 lions. However, the work was dangerous, and Bonavita once had his arm torn off when he looked away from one of the creatures for too long.
Bonavita died on March 19, 1917, after being attacked by a polar bear. Public Domain
Ralph Lincoln
Ralph Lincoln is a distant relative of Abraham Lincoln — who bears a striking resemblence to the 16th president.
Ralph Lincoln has spent his adult life as a Lincoln impersonator, spreading his famous ancestor's story in appearances across the country. Ralph Lincoln
Ralph Lincoln has spent his adult life as a Lincoln impersonator, spreading his famous ancestor's story in appearances across the country. Ralph Lincoln
Claudia Cardinale
Born on April 15, 1938, in Tunis, Tunisia, Claudia Cardinale was a 1960s sex symbol who appeared in French and Italian films.
In her career of more than 60 years, Cardinale starred in over 100 films alongside the likes of Tony Curtis, Charles Bronson, and Burt Lancaster. She was known for her dark hair, husky voice, and thousand-watt smile.
After retiring from film, Cardinale became an activist supporting environmental causes and women's issues.Bettmann/Getty Images
In her career of more than 60 years, Cardinale starred in over 100 films alongside the likes of Tony Curtis, Charles Bronson, and Burt Lancaster. She was known for her dark hair, husky voice, and thousand-watt smile.
After retiring from film, Cardinale became an activist supporting environmental causes and women's issues.Bettmann/Getty Images
Rocky Dennis
Born on Dec. 4, 1961, Rocky Dennis had a rare disease known as craniodiaphyseal dysplasia that contorted the bones in his face. His life became the inspiration for the 1985 film Mask.
Though doctors predicted that Dennis would die by the age of seven, he lived to be 16 and approached his life with strength, levity, and intelligence.
He died on Oct. 4, 1978.Wikimedia Commons
Though doctors predicted that Dennis would die by the age of seven, he lived to be 16 and approached his life with strength, levity, and intelligence.
He died on Oct. 4, 1978.Wikimedia Commons
Pocahontas
Pocahontas was born around 1596 as a member of the of the Powhatan tribal nation in modern-day Virginia.
Pocahontas' actual story is quite different from the Disney version. She was kidnapped, imprisoned, possibly raped, and later died at a young age while accompanying her husband, John Rolfe, to England.
She died around the age of 21 in 1617 after falling violently ill. Public Domain
Pocahontas' actual story is quite different from the Disney version. She was kidnapped, imprisoned, possibly raped, and later died at a young age while accompanying her husband, John Rolfe, to England.
She died around the age of 21 in 1617 after falling violently ill. Public Domain
Edward Curtis
Born in 1868 in Wisconsin, Edward Curtis was an American photographer who took a number of stunning images of Native Americans.
Curtis took more than 40,000 photos of almost 100 Native American tribes at the turn of the 19th century, a time when Indigenous culture and traditions were increasingly under threat.
He died in 1952 at the age of 84.Public Domain
Curtis took more than 40,000 photos of almost 100 Native American tribes at the turn of the 19th century, a time when Indigenous culture and traditions were increasingly under threat.
He died in 1952 at the age of 84.Public Domain
Hans Langseth
Born in Norway on July 14, 1846, Hans Langseth has been recognized for having the longest beard in history.
Langseth started growing his beard at the age of 19, and it eventually grew to be 17 feet and six inches long.
Langseth died in 1927 — and his beard was donated to the Smithsonian.Public Domain
Langseth started growing his beard at the age of 19, and it eventually grew to be 17 feet and six inches long.
Langseth died in 1927 — and his beard was donated to the Smithsonian.Public Domain
Elijah McCoy
Born on May 2, 1843, in Ontario, Canada, Elijah McCoy was a Black engineer whose inventions inspired the phrase "The Real McCoy."
Though he struggled to find work in post-Civil War America, McCoy invented a lubrication cup that changed the face of the railroad industry by making it possible for trains to travel for longer periods of time. Imitators tried to copy him, but engineers would unfailingly demand the "the real McCoy."
Sadly, McCoy died largely impoverished in 1929 years after a devastating car crash left him with serious injuries. Ypsilanti Historical Society
Though he struggled to find work in post-Civil War America, McCoy invented a lubrication cup that changed the face of the railroad industry by making it possible for trains to travel for longer periods of time. Imitators tried to copy him, but engineers would unfailingly demand the "the real McCoy."
Sadly, McCoy died largely impoverished in 1929 years after a devastating car crash left him with serious injuries. Ypsilanti Historical Society
Agent 355
Agent 355 was a female spy who worked directly for George Washington during the American Revolution. She's believed to have been a socialite living in New York City who passed vital information about Washington's affluent enemies back to him.
However, her identity remains unknown to this day.Public Domain
However, her identity remains unknown to this day.Public Domain
Lyudmila Pavlichenko
Born on July 12, 1916, Lyudmila Pavlichenko was a sniper for the Soviet Red Army during World War II.
With 309 credited kills, she is considered one of the top military snipers of all time and the most successful female sniper in history.
Pavlichenko died following a stroke on Oct. 27, 1974, at the age of 58.Sovfoto/UIG via Getty Images
With 309 credited kills, she is considered one of the top military snipers of all time and the most successful female sniper in history.
Pavlichenko died following a stroke on Oct. 27, 1974, at the age of 58.Sovfoto/UIG via Getty Images
Inside The Stories Of 77 Interesting People You May Have Never Heard Of
Whether they come from the realms of government, science, the military, or elsewhere, there are interesting people from history that nearly everyone has learned about, such as Galileo, Genghis Khan, or Rosa Parks.
Countless inventors, dignitaries, and social activists have made a lasting impression on humanity. Their stories make it into textbooks and classrooms across the globe, and they eventually become household names. These well-known figures are certainly among the world's most interesting people.
However, there are also plenty of interesting people who have more or less been forgotten to time. Some of them wrote their own stories as scientists, athletes, or thrill-chasers; others were born into extraordinary circumstances that they turned to their advantage.
In the gallery above, look through some of the most interesting people from the past who are often left out of the history books. Then, read on to dive deeper into a few of their stories.
Inventors On The List Of Interesting People
Some of the interesting people in the gallery above were inventors.
Take Lonnie Johnson, for instance.
Born in the Jim Crow South on Oct. 6, 1949, Johnson began inventing things at an early age. As a boy, he took apart his sister's doll to see what made its eyes close. In high school, Johnson created a robot that won first prize at the Junior Engineering Technical Society Fair in 1968. According to Johnson's website, he was the only Black student in the competition.
Lonnie JohnsonLonnie Johnson and the robot he built while still in high school.
Johnson later found work at NASA, where he could indulge his curiosity and creativity as an engineer. But Johnson never stopped inventing things. One day, while tinkering around, he designed what would become the Super Soaker. Though he initially only used the water gun to play with his daughter, Johnson eventually decided to patent the toy.
It's now the best-selling water toy of all time.
Thomas S. England/The LIFE Images Collection via Getty Images/Getty ImagesLonnie Johnson and the Super Soaker water gun.
Other interesting people who were also inventors include Jack Parsons, the occultist who invented rocket fuel; Martin Couney, the sideshow performer whose exhibit saved hundreds of premature babies; and actress Hedy Lamarr, whose research helped lead to modern-day Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
These inventors created things that changed the world. Other people in the gallery, however, faced extraordinary circumstances.
Interesting People Who Survived Incredible Things
Some of the interesting people on our list did extraordinary things with their lives when faced with adversity, such as Juliane Koepcke.
On Dec. 24, 1971, 17-year-old Koepcke was on LANSA Flight 508 with her mother, traveling from Lima to Pucallpa, Peru. It should have been a short flight, but the plane was caught in a thunderstorm. It disintegrated in mid-air, plunging Koepcke 10,000 feet into the rainforest below.
Juliane Koepcke/InstagramJuliane Koepcke after surviving both a plane crash and 11 days in the Peruvian rainforest.
Though every other passenger, including Koepcke's mother, was killed, the teenager found herself without life-threatening injuries. She remembered that her father had told her that if she was ever lost, she should follow water downstream, as that was where towns or villages could usually be found.
Koepcke followed his advice — and after 11 harrowing days, she escaped from the jungle.
Other interesting people on our list have also lived through incredible things, like Violet Jessop, who survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic — and both of its sister ships — Harry Haft, who made it out of Auschwitz alive by becoming a boxer, and Annie Edson Taylor, who was the first person to travel over Niagara Falls in a barrel and live to tell the tale.
Discover their stories and the stories of many more interesting people in the gallery above.
After learning about these little-known interesting people from history, discover some of the world's most amazing facts. Then, read about some of history's most interesting events.
