Born on This Day: July 21

American novelist whose spare prose and treatment of war, courage, and loss transformed modern fiction.

American poet whose dense, visionary works became influential in modernist poetry.

Canadian media theorist whose ideas about communication and the global village shaped modern media studies.

Ukrainian-American violinist whose performances, teaching, and advocacy strengthened classical music institutions.

American attorney general whose tenure shaped federal law enforcement, civil rights, and public administration.

British singer and songwriter whose reflective music and later humanitarian work influenced popular culture.

American cartoonist whose Doonesbury brought sustained political and social commentary to newspaper comics.

American comedian and actor whose improvisation and dramatic range influenced stand-up, television, and film.