Yuri Gagarin
1934–1968 · Soviet/Russian (Klushino) · Cold War / Space Age
Known for: First human in space—orbited Earth in 108 minutes on April 12, 1961, transforming humanity's relationship with the cosmos
Gagarin was a carpenter's son from a village devastated by Nazi occupation who became the most famous person on the planet. Chosen from over 3,000 candidates partly for his small stature (the Vostok capsule was tiny), calm temperament, and irresistible smile, he orbited Earth in a largely automated flight.
After the flight, he became a global celebrity touring the world to adoring crowds. He was warm, genuine, and struggled with the burden of fame. He died in a training jet crash at 34 under circumstances that remain debated—a light too bright, extinguished too soon.
Browse all 1,000 figures by category
Enable JavaScript to view the full "if they lived today" Q&A and personality profile.