Born on This Day: September 21

German emperor and liberal-minded crown prince whose brief reign became a lost possibility in imperial politics.

English writer whose scientific romances helped establish modern science fiction.

English composer whose orchestral works, especially The Planets, became central to modern concert music.

Ghanaian leader whose independence movement and Pan-Africanism influenced decolonization across Africa.

American animator and director whose work transformed character animation and visual comedy.

Canadian poet and songwriter whose writing and music influenced generations of artists.

American author whose fiction transformed modern horror and popular literature.

American actor and comedian whose understated style has influenced modern film comedy.