Allan Pinkerton
Detective and spy agency founder
Detective and spy agency founder
1819
206 years ago
Thinkers & Philosophers
United States
A Scottish-American detective and spy, established the Pinkerton National Detective Agency in 1850. Played a significant role in intelligence gathering during the American Civil War, providing information to the Union Army. Contributed to the early formation of detective work and private security in the United States. Developed a reputation for conducting undercover operations and capturing criminals, and was instrumental in pursuing outlaws, including the McCarthy gang.
Founded the Pinkerton National Detective Agency
Provided intelligence for the Union Army during the Civil War
Pursued the Jesse James gang
Contributed significantly to the development of laser technology and quantum electronics. Served as a professor at the Moscow State University, influencing multiple generations of physicists. His research laid the groundwork for numerous applications in physics and engineering. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1964 alongside Alexander Prokhorov and Charles Townes for the invention of methods for generating and amplifying electromagnetic waves.
Continue ReadingA banker and humanitarian organized the rescue of 669 children, mostly Jewish, from Czechoslovakia before World War II. The effort took place in 1939, facilitating their travel to safety in the United Kingdom. Winton maintained secrecy about the operation for many years, but after details emerged, efforts to acknowledge his work gained attention. In addition to his humanitarian efforts, he played a role in various charitable initiatives later in life, receiving honors for his contributions to society.
Continue ReadingServed as a prominent English politician during the 18th century. Held the title of 1st Baron Holland and the position of Secretary of State for the Southern Department. Engaged in various political endeavors, contributing to the administration under different monarchs. Played a significant role in shaping policies during a turbulent period in British history, facilitating negotiations and fostering political alliances.
Continue ReadingAn American actor gained prominence in film and television. Significant roles included the character Mitch in the film 'A Streetcar Named Desire' and as Captain Samuel Tanner in the television series 'The Streets of San Francisco'. Throughout a career spanning over five decades, featured in numerous films and television shows, contributing to the golden age of Hollywood. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in 'A Streetcar Named Desire'.
Continue ReadingServed as a concubine to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent daimyo during the Sengoku period. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Japan through this relationship. Contributed to the consolidation of power that characterized Hideyoshi's era, which led to the unification of Japan under his rule. The connection with Hideyoshi positioned her within the intricate court dynamics of the period and influenced various social and political interactions.
Continue ReadingServed as the regent of the Kamakura shogunate during a pivotal time in Japanese history. Oversaw the administration of the shogunate and helped establish the Hōjō family's power. Played a significant role in consolidating political authority and navigating conflicts within the ruling elite. Implemented key policies that shaped the governance of the shogunate and supported samurai rule. His tenure contributed to the stability of the region during the early 13th century, particularly in a time of challenges from both external and internal forces. Died in 1224, leaving a legacy intertwined with the history of Japanese feudalism.
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