Carl Reichenbach
German chemist and philosopher
Contributed to the fields of chemistry and philosophy, emphasizing the concept of odic force, which he proposed as a vital energy present in all living things. Developed theories on the properties of light and various organic compounds. Published works that explored the relationship between science and spirituality, influencing later esoteric movements. Engaged in extensive research on electromagnetic phenomena and its implications for understanding nature.
Developed the concept of odic force
Published influential works on chemistry and philosophy
Other People Born on February 12th
Jim Creeggan
Canadian singer-songwriter, Barenaked Ladies
Born
February 12th, 1970 55 years ago
A singer-songwriter and musician, contributed significantly to the Canadian music scene. Gained prominence as a member of the band Barenaked Ladies. The band is recognized for a blend of alternative rock and pop music, and known for hits like "One Week" and "If I Had $1,000,000." Creeggan's musical talents extend to playing the bass guitar and keyboard, showcasing versatility within the band. The group received multiple awards and nominations, including several Juno Awards for their work.
Continue ReadingScott Menville
Voice actor in 'Teen Titans' series
Born
February 12th, 1971 54 years ago
Voice acted in multiple animated series and films. Provided the voice for characters in the 'Teen Titans' franchise. Worked on various video game projects, contributing voice talent for prominent characters. Additionally, pursued a career in music and acted in live performances.
Continue ReadingMike Posner
Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 12th, 1988 37 years ago
Started his career releasing mixtapes and gained significant attention with the single 'Cooler Than Me' in 2010. The debut album '31 Minutes to Takeoff' featured hits like 'Please Don't Go' and showcased a mix of pop and electronic influences. Later, produced tracks for prominent artists and expanded work into production and songwriting. Achieved recognition for the song 'I Took a Pill in Ibiza', which received widespread acclaim and commercial success, leading to a remix by a notable DJ. Has also undertaken projects involving personal reflection and poetry.
Continue ReadingSteve Hackett
Guitarist and producer from England
Born
February 12th, 1950 75 years ago
A prominent singer-songwriter and guitarist, gained recognition as a member of the progressive rock band Genesis during the early 1970s. Contributed to several iconic albums, including 'Selling England by the Pound' and 'The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.' After leaving Genesis, pursued a successful solo career, releasing numerous albums that showcased a blend of rock, classical, and acoustic elements. Notable for virtuosic guitar skills and innovative songwriting, Hackett has influenced many musicians across genres.
Continue ReadingGucci Mane
American rapper with influential mixtapes
Born
February 12th, 1980 45 years ago
A prominent figure in hip hop, contributed significantly to the genre through a series of influential mixtapes and albums. Gained recognition with the release of 'Trap House' in 2005, followed by 'Hard to Kill' and 'The State vs. Radric Davis'. Established the record label 1017 Records, promoting emerging artists. His style blends Southern rap with a distinctive delivery, influencing numerous artists and shaping trap music. Overcame legal challenges and personal struggles, leading to a resurgence in his career with collaborations and projects like 'Everybody Looking' and 'Evil Genius'.
Continue ReadingRay Kurzweil
Computer Scientist and Futurist
Born
February 12th, 1948 77 years ago
A prominent computer scientist and engineer contributed significantly to fields such as artificial intelligence and technology. Developed the first text-to-speech synthesizer and created software for scanning music and producing machine-generated music. Authored several influential books on technology, futurism, and the singularity, including 'The Age of Spiritual Machines' and 'The Singularity Is Near'. Worked with companies to advance machine learning and natural language processing.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 19th
Michel Guimond
Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 62 years old
A lawyer and politician from Canada, played a significant role in the Canadian Parliament as a member of the Bloc Québécois. Represented the riding of Montarville from 2000 until 2004. Was involved in various parliamentary committees and contributed to discussions surrounding Canadian legislation. Served at the provincial level in Quebec as a member of the National Assembly prior to his federal career. The political career ended after losing in the 2004 election, but continued to engage in legal practices and consulting until passing in 2015.
Continue ReadingChristopher Chataway
Runner and politician with a record in athletics
Born
January 31st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
Competed in middle-distance running, achieving a silver medal in the 5000 meters at the 1954 Commonwealth Games and participating in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Transitioned to journalism, serving as a sports commentator and later as a political figure with the Conservative Party. Held the position of Member of Parliament for]][London-Berrington from 1964 to 1970 and played a role in the development of sports policies in government. His career spanned athletics, journalism, and politics, showcasing a multifaceted path.
Continue ReadingVavá
Brazilian footballer and manager
Born
November 12th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2002 23 years ago — 67 years old
Played as a forward, contributing to the national team's success in the 1958 and 1962 FIFA World Cups. Transitioned to coaching after playing, leading various clubs in Brazil and abroad. Served as a national team assistant coach during the 1980s, enhancing tactical approaches for the squad.
Continue ReadingHrant Dink
Turkish-Armenian journalist and activist
Born
September 15th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2007 18 years ago — 52 years old
A journalist and activist focused on Armenian issues and human rights. Founded and edited the Armenian-Turkish newspaper Agos. Advocated for reconciliation between Turkey and Armenia. Sought to address the historical events of the Armenian Genocide. Faced numerous legal challenges and threats due to his views. Assassinated in 2007, prompting widespread protests and discussions on freedom of expression.
Continue ReadingAnthony Franciosa
American Actor in The Long, Hot Summer
Born
October 25th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2006 19 years ago — 77 years old
An actor with a significant career in film and television, gained recognition for performances in both mediums. Early roles included appearances in the television series 'The Claimant' and 'Surfside 6'. Gained prominence in the film 'The Long, Hot Summer', alongside other notable works such as 'A Face in the Crowd' and 'The Assault'. Received a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for portrayal in 'The Stranger'. Later starred in the television series 'The Name of the Game' and 'The City'.
Continue ReadingDon Wittman
Canadian sportscaster with legacy in hockey
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2008 17 years ago — 72 years old
A sportscaster with a significant career in television broadcasting, particularly in ice hockey. Known for commentary on Canadian television, contributing to the growth of sports broadcasting in Canada. Served as the primary play-by-play announcer for the Winnipeg Jets, providing insights and updates during the team's games. Also hosted several sports-related programs, enhancing the public's engagement with various sporting events. His voice became synonymous with hockey coverage in the region, earning respect within the industry.
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