Antonio Meucci

Italian-American engineer; telephone inventor

Antonio Meucci - Italian-American engineer; telephone inventor
Born

April 13th, 1808
217 years ago

Died

October 18th, 1889
135 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

An engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur contributed significantly to the development of voice communication technology. Born in Italy, migrated to the United States in the mid-1800s, established a workshop in Staten Island. Designed a prototype of a device for transmitting voice messages, demonstrating its functionality with the 'telettrofono'. Faced financial difficulties, including legal battles over patent rights, which hindered recognition of the invention. Recieved a U.S. patent caveat in 1871 for the telegraph device. Recognized posthumously for achievements in telecommunications and regarded as a pioneer in the field.

Developed the first prototype of the telephone

Filed a patent caveat in 1871

Other People Born on April 13th

Frank Murphy

United States Attorney General
Born
April 13th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1890, served as the 56th United States Attorney General from 1939 to 1940. Held various legal positions including serving as the Mayor of Detroit and a justice on the Michigan Supreme Court. Appointed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, focused on civil rights and judicial reforms during tenure. Contributed to post-World War II efforts in Japan, participating in trial proceedings against war criminals. His approach emphasized fairness and justice in legal processes.

Continue Reading

Frank Winfield Woolworth

Businessman who founded Woolworth's
Born
April 13th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent American businessman founded the F. W. Woolworth Company, pioneering the concept of the five-and-dime store. Established the first self-service retail store model that influenced modern retail shopping. The first store opened in Utica, New York in 1879, leading to the rapid expansion of numerous locations across the United States and internationally. His business approach emphasized affordability and accessibility, creating a new shopping experience for consumers. Contributions to retail set the stage for future discount retailers.

Continue Reading

Thomas D'Arcy McGee

Irish-Canadian politician and journalist
Born
April 13th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1868 157 years ago — 42 years old

Born in Ireland, played a significant role in Canadian politics and journalism. Moved to Canada in 1842, where engagement in political affairs began. Advocated for the Confederation of Canada and served as a member of the Canadian Parliament. Contributed to numerous publications, particularly focusing on topics such as Irish nationalism and Canadian unity. McGee was assassinated in 1868, becoming a martyr for the cause of Canadian nationalism.

Continue Reading

Butch Cassidy

American outlaw and gang leader
Born
April 13th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1908 117 years ago — 42 years old

An American outlaw and gang leader, this figure became prominent in the late 19th century. He co-founded the Wild Bunch, a criminal gang known for robbing banks and trains across the American West. The gang's exploits drew significant attention, and their daring heists became legendary in the folklore of the American frontier. This figure was also known for evading law enforcement through various means, including vibrant escapades and clever deceptions. Eventually, this outlaw relocated to South America, where he continued criminal activities before disappearing from historical records.

Continue Reading

Hendrik van Rheede

Dutch botanist and author of Hortus Indicus Malabaricus
Born
April 13th, 1636 389 years ago
Died
1691 334 years ago — 55 years old

Born in the Dutch Republic, this botanist is remembered for the extensive work in documenting the flora of India, particularly in the Malabar region. The publication, Hortus Indicus Malabaricus, served as a crucial reference in the study of tropical plants, combining both scientific and cultural insights. The work consisted of twelve volumes, showcasing detailed illustrations and descriptions of numerous plant species. It provided valuable information to both European and Indian scholars and contributed significantly to botanical studies during the 17th century.

Continue Reading

Mike Beuttler

Racing driver, Formula One competitor
Born
April 13th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1988 36 years ago — 48 years old

Competed in Formula One during the early 1970s, participating in 24 Grands Prix. Achieved a best finish of 6th place at the 1971 French Grand Prix driving for the BRM team. Competed for various teams including the March and the private BRM team. Beyond Formula One, also had a career in sports car racing and participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 18th

Albert Lee Ueltschi

Businessman and aviation training pioneer
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2012 12 years ago — 95 years old

Founded FlightSafety International, a premier aviation training company that provides pilot and instructor training programs. The company became a leader in the aviation industry, offering advanced simulations and technologies. Ueltschi was actively involved in aviation safety initiatives and contributed to the development of standards for pilot training. His work significantly influenced how aviation education and training were implemented worldwide.

Continue Reading

Iván Petrovich

Actor in 'The Last Train' and singer
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1962 62 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Serbia and later moved to Germany, Petrovich gained recognition as an actor and singer. His performances in theater and film showcased his versatility and talent. He starred in the film 'The Last Train,' which contributed to his prominence in the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. Petrovich also performed in various musical productions, demonstrating skills in both acting and singing, contributing to a successful career in the performing arts until his death in 1962.

Continue Reading

Isaac Jogues

French missionary and martyr
Born
January 10th, 1607 418 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1646 378 years ago — 39 years old

A French priest and missionary, played a pivotal role in missionary efforts among Native Americans in North America during the 17th century. Arrived in Canada in 1636 and worked with the Huron people. Captured by the Iroquois in 1642, endured brutal treatment and was later martyred in 1646. Canonized as a saint in 1930 by the Catholic Church.

Continue Reading

Gyula Mándi

Hungarian footballer and manager
Born
January 21st, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1969 55 years ago — 70 years old

Started career as a footballer in the early 20th century. Played as a defender for clubs including MTK Budapest. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading teams in Hungary. Had a significant role in developing football in Hungary during his managerial tenure.

Continue Reading

Harvey Wollman

American politician, 26th Governor
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2022 2 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the 26th Governor of South Dakota from 1970 to 1971. Elected to the South Dakota House of Representatives in 1961 and served until 1965. Worked as a local government official in Brookings, South Dakota, prior to his gubernatorial term. Contributed to various state policies during tenure, emphasizing education and tourism. After leaving office, remained active in state political affairs and community development initiatives.

Continue Reading

Adriaan Kortlandt

Ethologist and biologist focused on animal behavior
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2009 15 years ago — 91 years old

An ethologist and biologist specialized in animal behavior, contributed extensively to the understanding of animal communication and cognitive processes. Conducted fieldwork on various species, including studies in the behavior of birds and the social interactions of primates. Focused on the evolutionary aspects of behavior and its relation to human psychology. Published numerous articles and books, providing insights into the mind of animals and their interactions with the environment. Engaged in teaching and mentoring future biologists, leaving a legacy in the field of ethology.

Continue Reading