Augustin-Jean Fresnel
French physicist known for wave optics
Contributed significantly to the field of wave optics, developing theories and designs that enhanced the understanding of light behavior. Invented the Fresnel lens, which greatly improved lighthouse illumination and was utilized in various optical applications. Worked on the theory of diffraction and interference, leading to further advancements in physical optics. Served as a professor of physics and was involved in the development of early optical instruments.
Invented the Fresnel lens
Developed theories of wave optics
Made contributions to diffraction and interference
Other People Born on May 10th
Mike Hagerty
American actor in 'Friends' and 'Lucky Louie'
Born
May 10th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 68 years old
An actor with a career spanning several decades, known for roles in television and film. Gained prominence through appearances in popular series. Played various characters, often portraying quirky and comedic roles. Worked extensively in both television and film, contributing to a variety of productions.
Continue ReadingAl-Aziz Billah
Fatimid Caliph, ruled from 975 to 996
Born
May 10th, 955 1070 years ago
Died
October 14th, 996 1029 years ago — 41 years old
Ruled as the Fatimid Caliph from 975 until death in 996. Established the city of Cairo as the new capital and strengthened the administrative structure of the Fatimid Caliphate. Promoted cultural and intellectual development in the region, fostering the arts and sciences. His rule marked a significant period in the history of Islamic governance in North Africa.
Continue ReadingNancy Walker
Actress and director of TV and film
Born
May 10th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1992 33 years ago — 69 years old
An American actress, singer, and director, she gained prominence through a variety of television and film roles. Significant contributions include performances in the Broadway production of 'On the Town' and the television series 'McMillan & Wife.' As a director, she worked on several television shows, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry. Her career spanned several decades, leading to a well-recognized presence in both acting and directing.
Continue ReadingRyan Getzlaf
Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup champion
Born
May 10th, 1985 40 years ago
Professionally played ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Anaheim Ducks. Served as team captain for multiple seasons. Played a significant role in the team's victory in the 2007 Stanley Cup Final. Represented Canada in international competitions, contributing to gold medal wins at the IIHF World Junior Championships and the World Cup of Hockey.
Continue ReadingSid Vicious
English punk rock musician and bassist
Born
May 10th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1979 47 years ago — 21 years old
A prominent figure in the punk rock movement, made significant contributions as a bassist for the influential band Sex Pistols. The band's album 'Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols' became a defining work of the genre. Vicious had a brief but impactful career and generated considerable attention for his tumultuous lifestyle and tragic narrative. His time with the band and subsequent solo work left an indelible mark on punk music history.
Continue ReadingEttore Scola
Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
May 10th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2016 10 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent film director and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Italian cinema. Created a unique style that blended drama and comedy, often exploring themes of Italian society. Directed acclaimed films such as "We All Loved Each Other So Much" and "A Special Day," reflecting the cultural landscape of the time. Received numerous accolades for work, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film for "The Family" in 1987. His storytelling resonates with audiences, capturing the essence of human relationships.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 14th
Quentin Roosevelt
American lieutenant and pilot
Born
November 19th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1918 107 years ago — 20 years old
Born in 1897, served as a lieutenant in the United States Army Air Service during World War I. Completed flight training and was assigned to the 95th Aero Squadron. Participated in multiple missions over France and engaged in aerial combat. Demonstrated bravery in various operations. Died in action during a dogfight in July 1918.
Continue ReadingJulie Manet
French painter and art collector
Born
November 14th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1966 59 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1878, a prominent French painter and art collector, contributed to the Post-Impressionist movement. Close association with notable artists like Pierre-Auguste Renoir influenced artwork. Housed important works in private collections and participated in various exhibitions. Employed a vibrant color palette and captured intimate portraits that reflected personal and artistic connections.
Continue ReadingPaul Kruger
South African politician and soldier
Born
October 10th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1904 121 years ago — 78 years old
Served as a soldier during the Great Trek and became a key political figure in the South African Republic. Elected as the fifth President, held office from 1883 to 1900. Advocated for Boer independence during the Second Boer War against British imperial rule. Significant contributions to the establishment of the South African Republic's government and its policies.
Continue ReadingMaryam Mirzakhani
Iranian mathematician and Fields Medalist
Born
May 12th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
July 14th, 2017 8 years ago — 40 years old
Contributions to mathematics included work on the theory of Riemann surfaces and hyperbolic geometry. Received the Fields Medal in 2014, making history as the first woman to earn this prestigious award. Held a position as a professor of mathematics at Stanford University, influencing both academic research and education in mathematics. Published numerous papers that advanced the understanding of complex mathematical concepts, particularly in the realm of geometry and topology.
Continue ReadingPepo
Chilean cartoonist; creator of Condorito
Born
1911 115 years ago
Died
July 14th, 2000 25 years ago — 89 years old
A Chilean cartoonist created the comic strip Condorito, which debuted in 1949. The character Condorito became an iconic figure in Latin American popular culture. The comic features humorous stories centered around the daily lives of Condorito and his friends in a fictional town. The work achieved significant commercial success and contributed to the cartoonist’s recognition across various Spanish-speaking countries. The character has appeared in numerous adaptations, including animated series and a feature film.
Continue ReadingIvana Trump
Czech-American socialite and model
Born
February 20th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
July 14th, 2022 3 years ago — 73 years old
Born in Czechoslovakia, this individual achieved recognition as a model and later moved to the United States. She gained prominence through her marriage to a real estate mogul and later served as the First Lady of New York City during that time. Besides modeling, she was involved in fashion design and business ventures, establishing her own clothing and accessory lines. Her autobiography provided insights into her life and experiences, showcasing aspects of celebrity culture and high society.
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