Charles Darwin

Naturalist and author of 'On the Origin of Species'

Charles Darwin - Naturalist and author of 'On the Origin of Species'
Born

February 12th, 1809
216 years ago

Died

April 19th, 1882
142 years ago — 73 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

Contributed to the field of evolutionary biology through groundbreaking theories and research. Developed the theory of natural selection, which explains the process of evolution in species. Conducted comprehensive studies during the voyage of the HMS Beagle from 1831 to 1836, observing diverse ecosystems and species, which informed his later writings. Published 'On the Origin of Species' in 1859, which revolutionized the understanding of natural history and biology. His work established a scientific basis for the understanding of life on Earth.

Published 'On the Origin of Species'

Developed the theory of natural selection

Conducted research during the HMS Beagle voyage

Other People Born on February 12th

Leon Kass

Physician and educator; bioethics leader
Born
February 12th, 1939 86 years ago

A prominent physician and scientist, contributed extensively to the fields of bioethics and healthcare policy. Served as the chairman of the President's Council on Bioethics under President George W. Bush. Kass' work explored the ethical implications of biomedical innovations and emphasized the importance of integrating ethical considerations into scientific advancement. Authored several influential texts on bioethics and human dignity, fostering important discussions on life sciences and public policy. Received numerous accolades for contributions to medicine and ethics throughout an extensive career in academia and public service.

Continue Reading

Charles Pinot Duclos

French author and playwright
Born
February 12th, 1704 321 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1772 252 years ago — 68 years old

Famed for contributions to literary criticism and narrative prose, this author published works that reflected on society in the 18th century. Some writings offered keen observations of the cultural and philosophical trends of the time. His essays and commentaries often engaged with the ideas of the Enlightenment, addressing themes of morality and human behavior. The text "The History of the French Literature" became a significant publication that influenced understanding of literary criticism during that period.

Continue Reading

Carlton Brewster

American football player and coach.
Born
February 12th, 1983 42 years ago

Played college football at a prominent university and transitioned to a coaching career in American football. Contributed to the development of young athletes through various coaching positions, focusing on skill enhancement and team strategy. Achieved recognition for coaching a successful high school football team, leading them to championship titles.

Continue Reading

Kujo Yoritsune

Japanese shōgun during Kamakura period
Born
February 12th, 1218 807 years ago
Died
1256 769 years ago — 38 years old

Served as the 3rd shōgun of the Kamakura shogunate from 1228 to 1256. Assumed power at a young age, his rule was characterized by the dominance of the Hojo clan, which served as regents. Oversaw a period of relative stability, although his tenure was marked by the challenges of rival factions within the shogunate. His administration dealt with various political and military issues, including conflicts with the imperial court. Resigned due to growing influence of the regents, reflecting the complexities of shōgunate politics during this era.

Continue Reading

Ray 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 Reading

Simon MacCorkindale

Actor and producer of 'Manimal'
Born
February 12th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2010 14 years ago — 58 years old

An English actor, director, and producer, MacCorkindale appeared in multiple television series and films throughout his career. He gained prominence for the television series 'Manimal' where he portrayed the lead character, a man with the ability to transform into animals. MacCorkindale also featured in notable roles in soap operas such as 'Falcon Crest' and 'Doctor Who.' In addition to his acting career, he directed and produced various projects, contributing to the film and television industry in the UK.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 19th

William Morton Wheeler

Entomologist and expert on ants
Born
March 19th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1937 87 years ago — 72 years old

An American entomologist and myrmecologist, focused research on the biology and behavior of ants. Contributed significantly to the understanding of the social structure and ecology of ant species. Served as a professor at Harvard University, educating future generations in entomology and promoting research in the field. Authored several influential publications, enhancing knowledge of insect life.

Continue Reading

Kwon Ki-ok

Korean pilot and aviation pioneer
Born
January 11th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1988 36 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1901, a significant figure in early Korean aviation. Achieved recognition as one of the first licensed pilots in Korea. Contributed to the development of aviation in Korea by participating in various flight exhibitions and training programs. Later, played a crucial role in promoting aviation education in the country.

Continue Reading

Robert Jameson

Scottish mineralogist and academic
Born
1774 251 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1854 170 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of mineralogy and geology. Held the position of professor of natural history at the University of Edinburgh. Published several influential works on mineral classification and crystallography, enhancing the understanding of mineral properties and formations. His efforts were instrumental in the development of geological studies in Scotland during the 19th century.

Continue Reading

Johann Gottlieb Friedrich von Bohnenberger

German astronomer and mathematician
Born
1765 260 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1831 193 years ago — 66 years old

Contributed significantly to astronomy and mathematics during the early 19th century. Developed advancements in celestial mechanics and designed an early astronomical observatory. Published works that addressed mathematical principles, particularly in geometry and trigonometry. Served as a professor at the University of Tübingen.

Continue Reading

Oliver Mowat

Canadian politician, Ontario Premier
Born
July 22nd, 1820 204 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1903 121 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the third Premier of Ontario from 1872 to 1896 and later became the eighth Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. During the tenure as Premier, worked on various reforms related to education and public works. Advocate for provincial rights and responsible government. Played a significant role in Canadian politics during the late 19th century, contributing to the development of Ontario's political landscape.

Continue Reading

Daniel Dennett

Philosopher and academic with consciousness theories
Born
March 28th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2024 0 years ago — 82 years old

This philosopher and cognitive scientist has significantly contributed to the philosophy of mind and cognitive science. Engaged in debates about consciousness and free will, this individual has authored influential books such as 'Consciousness Explained' and 'Darwin's Dangerous Idea'. This academic has held a faculty position at Tufts University, where extensive research on the intersection of philosophy, science, and religion has been conducted. Contributions extend to the topics of evolution, language, and artificial intelligence, influencing a generation of thinkers in various fields.

Continue Reading