All the People

If you just want to see the people in our database you can browse them here.

Johann Bernhard Basedow

German author and educator
Born
September 11th, 1723 303 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1790 236 years ago — 66 years old

An influential figure in educational reform during the 18th century, this individual advocated for progressive educational methods. Founded the Philanthropinum in Dessau, which emphasized practical education, moral development, and physical training. Authored several works promoting these ideas, including 'Elementarwerk', which served as a model for modern education. Pioneered the concept of integrating educational practices to foster holistic development in children.

Continue Reading

Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach

Austrian architect and Baroque designer
Born
1656 370 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1723 303 years ago — 67 years old

An influential architect and sculptor, contributed significantly to Baroque architecture in Austria. Designed notable buildings, including the Karlskirche in Vienna, showcasing grandiose dome structures. Authored 'Entwurf einer historischen Architektur', which explored architectural history and design principles. Served as a key figure in shaping the architectural landscape of Vienna during the 17th century.

Continue Reading

Johann Bernoulli

Mathematician and pioneer of calculus
Born
August 6th, 1667 359 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1748 278 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent figure in the development of calculus, contributed significantly to the field of mathematics and made important advancements in differential equations and infinite series. Held a professorship at the University of Basel and engaged with contemporaries such as Euler. Recognized for his work on the calculus of variations, particularly through the famous Brachistochrone problem. Actively participated in mathematical competitions and corresponded with leading mathematicians of the time.

Continue Reading

Johann Breyer

German SS officer during WWII
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2014 12 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a member of the SS during World War II. Was involved in operations concerning the deportation of Jews to concentration camps. After the war, faced allegations of war crimes but migrated to the United States. Lived a long life in America before his death in 2014.

Continue Reading

Johann Carion

German astrologer and chronicler
Born
March 22nd, 1499 527 years ago
Died
1537 489 years ago — 38 years old

Born in 1499, this figure specialized in astrology and historical chronicling. Contributions to the field of astrology included the publication of astrological calendars and the interpretation of celestial events. His major work involved the compilation of various historical texts, documenting events and personalities of his time. This chronicler also engaged with the scientific discourse of the Renaissance, intertwining astronomy with astrology. Carion's works provided insights into the societal beliefs and practices regarding astrology in early modern Europe.

Continue Reading

Johann Caspar Kerll

German organist and composer of works
Born
April 9th, 1627 399 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1693 333 years ago — 65 years old

An organist and composer, contributions spanned sacred and instrumental music during the Baroque period. Worked in various capacities throughout Europe, particularly in Germany and Austria. Composed numerous works for the organ, as well as vocal and choral music, influencing the development of German music. Held positions at several churches and served as a court composer in various locations.

Continue Reading

Johann Centurius Hoffmannsegg

German botanist and entomologist
Born
1766 260 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1849 176 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to botany and entomology during the early 19th century. Conducted extensive research on plant and insect species, establishing a connection between the two fields. Focused on the classification and description of various species, enhancing scientific knowledge. Collaborated with other naturalists to document findings and compile collections that influenced future botanical studies.

Continue Reading

Johann Christian Bach

German composer of keyboard concertos
Born
September 5th, 1735 291 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1782 244 years ago — 46 years old

A significant figure in the classical music era, contributed to the development of the concerto genre. Influenced later composers with a unique blend of Italian and German musical styles. Worked primarily in London, where gained acclaim for performances and compositions. His work in opera was also recognized, with notable pieces performed during his lifetime.

Continue Reading

Johann Christian Kittel

Organist and composer of German Baroque
Born
February 18th, 1732 294 years ago
Died
1809 217 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1732, this individual became an influential organist and composer during the German Baroque period. Kittel studied under the prominent figures of his time and became well-versed in the intricacies of organ music. His compositions predominantly focused on organ works, showcasing the stylistic trends of the time. Kittel served as an organist in various churches, where he contributed significantly to the organ repertoire. His works are characterized by their technical demands and emotive qualities, often performed in liturgical settings. Kittel died in 1809, leaving a legacy of compositions that continued to influence later generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Johann Christian Poggendorff

German physicist and scientific journalist
Born
December 29th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1877 149 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to physics, particularly in the fields of electricity and magnetism. Founded the journal Annalen der Physik und Chemie to disseminate scientific research and findings. Conducted extensive research on the electromotive force and made advancements in the understanding of galvanism. Educated at the University of Berlin, later became a prominent figure in scientific circles, promoting education and public interest in the sciences. Also contributed to the establishment of the Physical Society in Berlin.

Continue Reading

Johann Christian Reil

Physician and founder of psychological medicine
Born
February 20th, 1759 267 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1813 212 years ago — 54 years old

A German physician, physiologist, and anatomist contributed significantly to the understanding of psychological processes. Developed the concept of psychological medicine emphasizing the connection between mind and body. Worked at the University of Berlin, where research focused on the nervous system. Founded the first psychiatric clinic in Germany. Authored several important texts in medicine, particularly in neurology and psychiatry, influencing later developments in these fields.

Continue Reading

Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach

German composer and pianist of the Bach family
Born
June 21st, 1732 294 years ago
Died
1791 235 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1732, this composer contributed significantly to the transition from the Baroque to the Classical style. As a member of the prominent Bach family, he developed a distinct musical voice and created a variety of works including symphonies, chamber music, and keyboard compositions. His contributions to keyboard music were particularly notable, with a focus on the harpsichord and piano. He held positions in various courts, including the service of the Duke of Saxe-Weissenfels, which allowed for the proliferation of his compositions. He had a significant relationship with other composers and musicians, influencing the musical landscape of his time.

Continue Reading