Benjamin Thompson
Physicist and politician, Under-Secretary
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in the British Colonies, a physicist and politician contributed significantly to the understanding of heat and energy. Served as Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies during a period of political turmoil and change. Emigrated to France, where involvement in scientific communities continued. Collaborated with notable figures and engaged in political matters that shaped colonial policies.
Served as Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies
Conducted research on thermodynamics
Other People Born on March 26th
Kyung-wha Chung
Violinist and educator, acclaimed soloist
Born
March 26th, 1948 77 years ago
Born in South Korea, a prominent violinist and educator. Began violin studies at an early age, later attending the Juilliard School. Gained recognition as a soloist and performed with leading orchestras worldwide, including the New York Philharmonic and London Symphony Orchestra. Contributed significantly to classical music through performances and educational efforts. Also served as a professor at music institutions, sharing expertise with future generations.
Continue ReadingŽeljko Pavličević
Basketball coach and former player, Liga ABA
Born
March 26th, 1951 74 years ago
Established a coaching career in basketball after playing professionally. Achieved success with various teams in European leagues. Coached the Croatian national team, leading it to several significant competitions. Known for work in the Liga ABA and contributions to developing future players. Contributed to the growth of basketball in Croatia during the 1990s and early 2000s.
Continue ReadingWilliam Hague
Politician, First Secretary of State
Born
March 26th, 1961 64 years ago
A prominent English politician and historian, held the position of First Secretary of State from 2010 to 2015. Served as the leader of the Conservative Party from 1997 to 2001, shaping party policies during a critical period. Elected as a Member of Parliament for Richmond in 1989 and continued to serve multiple terms. Contributed to politics through significant roles, including Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. Authored several historical works, demonstrating deep expertise in British history. Retired from frontline politics and focused on writing and public speaking.
Continue ReadingGraeme Rutjes
Footballer known for club career
Born
March 26th, 1960 65 years ago
A footballer with a professional career spanning several clubs in the Netherlands and Australia, played primarily as a defender. Started at local clubs before moving to the Netherlands, where he joined Willem II and later played for FC Den Bosch. Contributed to team successes in domestic competitions. After returning to Australia, played for various clubs, helping to promote the sport in the region. Also had a stint representing Australia at the international level.
Continue ReadingVicki Lawrence
Actress and singer from "The Carol Burnett Show"
Born
March 26th, 1949 76 years ago
Born in 1949, a prominent American actress, comedian, and singer. Gained recognition as a cast member of "The Carol Burnett Show," where performances garnered widespread attention. Starred in the spin-off series "Mama's Family," portraying the character Thelma Harper. In addition to acting, achieved success as a recording artist with the hit single "The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia." Hosted the daytime talk show "Vicki!" and remained active in television and music throughout the decades.
Continue ReadingErica Jong
American novelist and poet with 'Fear of Flying'
Born
March 26th, 1942 83 years ago
A prominent American novelist and poet, celebrated for contributions to contemporary literature. The work 'Fear of Flying', published in 1973, explores themes of sexual freedom and female empowerment, becoming a cultural touchstone of the feminist movement. Jong's writing combines candidness with humor, resonating with readers and establishing a significant literary voice. Additionally, she has penned several other novels, poetry collections, and essays throughout her career, continuing to engage in discussions on women's issues and sexuality.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 21st
Adelbert von Chamisso
German botanist and poet
Born
January 30th, 1781 244 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1838 187 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in botany and literature, contributed significantly to both fields. Authored the collection of poems titled 'Peter Schlemihl' which explores themes of identity and loss. Conducted a botanical expedition to the Pacific, leading to the discovery and classification of many plant species. Published scientific works that influenced the study of botany in Germany and beyond. His literary contributions are recognized for their depth and narrative style.
Continue ReadingClaude-Louis Navier
French physicist and engineer
Born
February 10th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1836 189 years ago — 51 years old
Contributions to fluid mechanics and elasticity theory significantly advanced engineering and physics. Developed the Navier-Stokes equations which describe the motion of viscous fluid substances. Worked extensively on structural engineering and made notable advancements in bridge design. Served as a professor at the Collège de France, influencing future generations of engineers and scientists.
Continue ReadingAlbert Reynolds
Irish politician and ninth Taoiseach
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
Held the position of Taoiseach from 1992 to 1994, focusing on economic recovery and Northern Ireland peace negotiations. Prior to becoming Taoiseach, served as Minister for Finance and was integral in implementing policies that improved Ireland’s economic landscape. Played a significant role in the development of the peace process during the conflict in Northern Ireland, particularly with the signing of the Framework Documents in 1995. His leadership style was characterized by pragmatism and a commitment to addressing pressing political challenges.
Continue ReadingRay Eames
American architect, Eames House co-designer
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1988 37 years ago — 76 years old
An architect who collaborated with Charles Eames in design and furniture innovations, contributing significantly to modern design aesthetics. The Eames House, part of Case Study House Program #8, was designed as both a residence and a showcase for their furniture. This structure emphasizes the integration of art and architecture, embodying the principles of open space and functionality. The combination of modern materials and an expressive style marked a pivotal moment in mid-century modern architecture. Additionally, contributions to film and multimedia explored the intersection of design and visual storytelling.
Continue ReadingSiobhan Dowd
Author and activist, wrote 'A Swift Pure Cry'
Born
February 4th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2007 18 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1960 in England, an author created notable works aimed at young adults. 'A Swift Pure Cry' received critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards. Dowd's writing often focused on themes of identity and social justice. In addition to writing, advocated for children's literacy and access to literature. Dowd's contributions to literature were recognized posthumously with multiple awards.
Continue ReadingPhilippe Villiers de L'Isle-Adam
Grandmaster of the Knights Hospitaller
Born
1464 561 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1534 491 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 44th Grandmaster of the Knights Hospitaller from 1521 until death in 1534. Expanded the military and administrative capacities of the order during a time of conflict with the Ottoman Empire. Led the defense of Rhodes during the Siege of Rhodes in 1522, ultimately surrendering the island to the Ottomans. Worked to strengthen alliances with European powers to counter Ottoman advances in the Mediterranean.
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