All the People

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

Robert Simpson

American meteorologist and author
Born
November 19th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 102 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of meteorology. Co-developed the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale, a widely used classification system for hurricanes that measures intensity and potential property damage. Served as the director of the National Hurricane Center from 1967 to 1976, overseeing critical advancements in hurricane forecasting and public safety measures. Authored multiple publications on tropical meteorology and hurricane preparedness, educating both the scientific community and the general public.

Continue Reading

Robert Simson

Scottish mathematician and academic
Born
October 14th, 1687 338 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1768 257 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Scotland, a prominent mathematician focused on geometry and optics. Education attained at the University of Edinburgh led to significant contributions in mathematics. Published works include 'Treatise on the Conic Sections' and 'Discussion of the Optics of Newton'. Work provided insights into the principles of stability in materials and methods of construction. Served as a professor of mathematics at the University of Glasgow, influencing the study of geometry.

Continue Reading

Robert Sink

American General and World War II leader
Born
April 3rd, 1905 121 years ago
Died
1965 61 years ago — 60 years old

A high-ranking officer in the United States Army, played a significant role during World War II and the Korean War. Commanded the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, during the Normandy landings and played a crucial part in the Battle of Carentan. Led troops in various operations in Europe, contributing to the Allied victory. Post-war, served in various capacities including leading American forces in the Korean War, where strategic decisions shaped military engagements. Contributed to the development of military strategy and airborne operations.

Continue Reading

Robert Skidelsky

Historian with notable works on Keynes
Born
April 25th, 1939 87 years ago

An English historian and academic, contributed extensively to the understanding of economic theory and policy. Focused on the life and work of John Maynard Keynes, producing a comprehensive biography that received critical acclaim. Served as a member of the House of Lords, engaging in political discourse and economic discussions. Authored several influential books, broadening the analysis of economic issues and historical contexts. Participated in various academic debates and lectures, underlining the relevance of Keynesian economics in contemporary society.

Continue Reading

Robert S. Kimbrough

American astronaut and colonel
Born
June 4th, 1967 58 years ago

An astronaut and retired U.S. Army colonel participated in multiple space missions. Flew on space shuttle missions, including STS-133 and STS-145, conducting scientific research and technology demonstrations aboard the International Space Station. Served as a flight engineer on Expedition 50 aboard the ISS, contributing to ongoing projects in space exploration and research.

Continue Reading

Robert S. Langer

Chemical engineer and entrepreneur
Born
August 29th, 1948 77 years ago

A chemical engineer, entrepreneur, and academic developed advanced drug delivery systems and biomaterials. As a professor at MIT, contributed significantly to biotechnology and medicine. Co-founded over 30 companies focusing on innovative health solutions. Pioneered research in polymer science and tissue engineering.

Continue Reading

Robert Slater

American author and journalist
Born
October 1st, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 71 years old

Worked extensively as a journalist and wrote several books focusing on business and leadership, particularly profiles of prominent corporate leaders. Covered various business trends and strategies, contributing to a deeper understanding of management practices. Slater's writing often provided insights into the corporate world and examined major figures in the field, contributing to literature on business leadership.

Continue Reading

Robert Smalls

Ship's pilot and U.S. Congressman
Born
April 5th, 1839 187 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 76 years old

An African-American ship's pilot and sea captain, played a significant role during the Civil War by commandeering a Confederate transport ship and surrendering it to Union forces. This act of bravery and strategic thinking contributed to the Union's naval strength. After the war, served as a politician, advocating for civil rights and education for African Americans. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, represented South Carolina's 5th congressional district during the Reconstruction era. His work in politics focused on legislation supporting black suffrage and public education.

Continue Reading

Robert Smigel

American actor and writer for TV shows
Born
February 7th, 1960 66 years ago

Born in 1960, this individual is a prominent actor, producer, and screenwriter. Best recognized for creating and voicing the character Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, work includes contributions to the television series 'Saturday Night Live' and 'Late Night with Conan O'Brien'. Adjacent projects encompass film writing and directing, showcasing a range of comedic talent. Additionally, involvement in various live-action and animated productions highlights a multifaceted career.

Continue Reading

Robert Smirke

English painter and illustrator
Born
1753 273 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1845 181 years ago — 92 years old

Active primarily in the 19th century, this individual specialized in painting and illustration. Contributions included work as a book illustrator, with significant associations with literary figures of the time. Various artworks displayed a combination of classical themes and visions of contemporary life. The individual also participated in the Royal Academy, showcasing various pieces that highlighted a meticulous attention to detail and narrative in visual form.

Continue Reading

Robert Smith

Mathematician and theorist, Smith's Theorem
Born
November 3rd, 1757 268 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1768 258 years ago — 10 years old

A prominent English mathematician and theorist, contributed significantly to the field of mathematics during the 18th century. Smith developed theories that laid foundations for algebraic topology and number theory. His work included studies on the nature of equations and their relationships. Upon his death in 1768, his influence continued to resonate in subsequent mathematical research and development.

Continue Reading

Robert Smithson

Sculptor and photographer, Spiral Jetty
Born
January 2nd, 1938 88 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1973 52 years ago — 35 years old

This individual was an American sculptor and photographer associated with the land art movement. Born in 1938, significant works include the iconic Spiral Jetty, constructed in 1970 on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake in Utah. Spiral Jetty is a 1,500-foot-long coil made of earth, rocks, and salt crystals, illustrating the synergy between art and nature. In addition to large-scale installations, this individual also produced a substantial body of photography and writings that explored the concepts of time and space within the context of landscape. The artist's innovative approach has influenced subsequent generations of artists and has been a pivotal part of discussions regarding environmental art.

Continue Reading