Learn About The 50 States
Alan B. Shepard, Jr. (1923)close
Born in Derry, New Hampshire, Alan Shepard was one of the first 7 Mercury astronauts. In 1961, he was the first American to travel in space. His successful flight made him an instant celebrity. When he later piloted the Apollo 14 mission to the Moon, he became the oldest man to walk on the Moon.
Click on any of the names below to find out more...
Looking for a famous American?
This page presents short biographies of more than 200 famous Americans drawn from our unit, "The 50 States." These personalities are arranged by theme.
Just click a theme at the top of the page to view a selection list for that theme.
African Americans:
Artists:
Business Leaders:
National "Characters":
Phineas Taylor "P.T." Barnum | Clyde Barrow | John Wilkes Booth |
Butch Cassidy | William "Buffalo Bill" Cody | Davy Crockett |
Jesse James | Evel Knievel | Harland David "Colonel" Sanders |
Jefferson R. "Soapy" Smith |
Cultural Figures:
Inventors:
Pioneers and "Firsts":
Politicians & Activists:
Scientists:
Sports Figures:
Accomplished Women:
Writers & Poets: