Famous people born on September 2nd
September 2 brings together a notably wide-ranging set of birthdays, spanning blockbuster film, championship sports, space exploration, and influential ideas in economics and science. The date is distinguished by people who shaped popular culture while also pushing forward innovation and public life. From arena crowds to research labs, the mix reflects both mass appeal and lasting impact.
Notable highlights
- Keanu Reeves (1964) - Became a modern action icon while maintaining a versatile career that ranges from sci-fi classics to grounded dramas.
- Salma Hayek (1966) - Helped broaden global representation in Hollywood, pairing star power with acclaimed producing work.
- Jimmy Connors (1952) - Known for relentless competitiveness, he turned tennis into must-watch theater and remained a fixture at the top for years.
- Bill Shankly (1913) - Revolutionized Liverpool FC culture and standards, laying the groundwork for an era-defining football institution.
- Lennox Lewis (1965) - A technically sharp heavyweight who unified titles and set a modern template for disciplined championship boxing.
- Christa McAuliffe (1948) - The teacher-astronaut who symbolized a new era of civilian participation in spaceflight and inspired classrooms worldwide.
- Andy Grove (1936) - As Intel's transformational leader, he helped turn semiconductors into the engine of the personal computing age.
- Wilhelm Ostwald (1853) - A foundational figure in physical chemistry whose work advanced catalysis and chemical kinetics.
- Henry George (1839) - Influenced economic and political debate with land-value ideas that continue to echo in policy discussions.
- John Zorn (1953) - An avant-garde composer and saxophonist celebrated for genre-blurring projects that reshaped downtown New York music scenes.
On this day
- 1666 - The Great Fire of London intensifies after igniting the previous day, ultimately reshaping the city and its building standards.
- 1945 - Japan formally signs the instrument of surrender aboard the USS Missouri, effectively ending World War II.
- 1969 - The first ATM in the United States begins operating, accelerating the shift toward self-service banking.
- 1998 - Swissair Flight 111 crashes off Nova Scotia, prompting major advances in aviation safety and investigation practices.