André-Jacques Garnerin
French balloonist and parachute inventor
Born
January 31st, 1769
256 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1823
201 years ago — 54 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
France
Links & References
Born in 1769, a pioneering figure in aviation, this individual made significant contributions to flight and parachuting. In 1797, executed the first successful parachute jump from a height of 3,200 feet using the frameless parachute design. This innovation represented a major advancement in safety for aerial vehicles and created a foundation for future developments in parachute technology.
Executed the first successful parachute jump in 1797
Invented the frameless parachute
Other People Born on January 31st
Rodolphe Töpffer
A Swiss teacher authored several influential books on education and art. Created early comic strips, which contributed to the development of graphic storytelling. Also worked as a painter and caricaturist, blending visual art with humor. His contributions helped shape the modern comic format, influencing later comic artists and writers.
Continue ReadingVirginia Ruzici
A tennis player achieved significant success during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Won the French Open singles title in 1978, which marked a highlight of a successful professional career. Competed in the WTA Tour and was part of the Romania national team in the Fed Cup. Transitioned to tennis management after retirement and has contributed to the sport through management roles.
Continue ReadingFatou Bensouda
Served as the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court from 2012 to 2021. Focused on cases involving war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. Before this role, held the position of deputy prosecutor at the ICC. Worked as a legal advisor in the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Contributed to the development of international criminal law through various legal positions and extensive legal advocacy.
Continue ReadingIrving Langmuir
Contributions to physical chemistry and surface chemistry defined a career that included development of the Langmuir isotherm. Achievements in the field of chemistry were recognized with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1932. Significant work included investigations of high-temperature chemical processes and the discovery of the phenomena of plasma. Langmuir's research into chemical bonding and reactions greatly influenced the understanding of chemical systems.
Continue ReadingZane Grey
An author, primarily recognized for Western novels, contributed significantly to the genre. Early works include 'Riders of the Purple Sage', which became an iconic representation of the American West. Other notable titles include 'The Lone Star Ranger' and 'The Light of Western Stars'. Grey's passion for outdoor life and adventure was often reflected in his writing. In addition to novels, Grey authored stories for magazines and non-fiction works, addressing fishing and outdoor activities. His style combined vivid descriptions of landscapes with tales of rugged individuals. His influence helped shape public perception of the Western genre and its romanticized ideals of frontier life.
Continue ReadingJoakim Bonnier
Competed in Formula One racing and was active from 1956 to 1971. Participated in 108 Grand Prix events, achieving a total of three podium finishes. Also raced in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, securing significant recognition for performances with various teams. Known for his dedication to the sport during a transformative era in racing.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 18th
Learned Hand
A prominent American lawyer and jurist, Hand served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. Celebrated for his contributions to legal philosophy and constitutional law, he authored numerous influential opinions that shaped American jurisprudence. Hand’s beliefs about civil liberties and the importance of free speech influenced legal standards in the United States. As a notable scholar, he lectured extensively and engaged in discussions about the role of law in society. His efforts in the field of law encompassed a blend of practical judgment and deep philosophical inquiry.
Continue ReadingRose Friedman
An economist and author, contributed significantly to economic thought through the promotion of free-market principles. Co-founded the Friedman Foundation for Educational Choice to advocate for school choice. Collaborated with husband Milton Friedman on important works in economics, including 'Capitalism and Freedom' and 'Free to Choose', which discussed the role of capitalism in promoting individual liberty. Engaged in numerous debates and wrote extensively on economic policy and education reform.
Continue ReadingMichael Deaver
Served as Deputy White House Chief of Staff under President Ronald Reagan. Played a key role in the public relations strategy of the Reagan administration. Was influential in crafting the administration's image and communications. Worked on the 1984 presidential campaign, which resulted in Reagan's re-election. Continued a career in political consulting after leaving the government, advising clients on strategy and public image.
Continue ReadingPope Paul IV
Served as Pope from 1555 to 1559, implementing significant reforms within the Roman Catholic Church. Established the Roman Inquisition to combat heresy, reinforcing doctrinal authority. Contributed to the creation of the Index Librorum Prohibitorum, a list of prohibited books aimed at protecting the faith from corruption. Promoted the introduction of the Jewish ghetto in Rome, enforcing segregation of the Jewish population.
Continue ReadingAli-Agha Shikhlinski
Born in 1865, a prominent general in the Russian and Azerbaijani military history. Played a significant role during World War I and the subsequent Russian Civil War. Commanded troops with strategic acumen, leading various military operations that contributed to regional stability. Engaged in efforts to promote Azerbaijani independence during the tumultuous political climate of the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingJean Kahn
Played a significant role in advocating for civil rights in France and worked with various organizations to promote social justice. Contributed to the legal framework regarding individual liberties and public policies. Engaged in numerous campaigns focused on minority rights, anti-racism, and civil liberties throughout a lengthy career in law. Held leadership positions in several human rights organizations and served on advisory panels concerning human rights issues.
Continue Reading