Clarence Dutton
American geologist and soldier
A prominent geologist and soldier, Dutton contributed significantly to the understanding of geology in the Grand Canyon region. Dutton served as a captain in the United States Army and participated in the survey of the American West. He was influential in the establishment of the U.S. Geological Survey, where he focused on geological mapping and studies. He authored several significant publications about the geological features of the Grand Canyon, emphasizing the processes of erosion and sedimentation.
Completed critical geological surveys of the Grand Canyon
Served as a captain in the United States Army
Contributed to the establishment of the U.S. Geological Survey
Other People Born on May 15th
Luis Monti
Footballer and manager, won World Cup
Born
May 15th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1983 42 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in football, played for Argentina and Italy, earning distinction in both national teams. Monti competed in the 1930 FIFA World Cup, contributing to Argentina's runner-up finish. Later, represented Italy in the 1934 World Cup, where the team secured victory. Transitioned to management after his playing career, leading various clubs and contributing to the development of football tactics.
Continue ReadingClifton Fadiman
Game Show Host and Author
Born
May 15th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 95 years old
An American game show host and author, engaged audiences with intellectual challenges and literary insights. Hosted the popular television quiz show 'Information, Please!' from 1938 to 1958, where contestants answered questions on a wide range of subjects. Wrote several books, including 'The Lifetime Reading Plan', guiding readers towards a comprehensive literary education. Established a reputation as a prominent figure in American media, and contributed to various publications, showcasing a passion for literature and knowledge.
Continue ReadingLevi Lincoln Sr.
American politician and Attorney General
Born
May 15th, 1749 276 years ago
Died
1820 205 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 4th United States Attorney General from 1801 to 1805 under President Thomas Jefferson. Played a significant role in the administration, particularly in the legal matters of the federal government. Active in Massachusetts politics, served as a member of the Governor's Council and as the Lieutenant Governor. Instrumental in the establishment of several laws and policies, advocating for the rule of law and justice during early governance.
Continue ReadingRoy Stewart
Jamaican-English actor and stuntman
Born
May 15th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1925, this individual was an actor and stuntman with a significant career in film and television. Known for performing stunts in high-profile productions, he contributed to action sequences in a variety of genres. The actor's skills in combat and physical performance were showcased in iconic films such as 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'James Bond: Goldfinger.' His expertise helped bring realism to action scenes across various cinematic works.
Continue ReadingHilda Bernstein
Author and activist for social justice
Born
May 15th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old
Born in England and later residing in South Africa, an author and activist focused on anti-apartheid efforts and human rights. Contributed to various publications, bringing attention to social injustices. Engaged in activism for the South African Congress of Democrats, which aimed to fight for equality. Authored 'The World That Was' and 'In the Name of the People,' emphasizing the struggles against oppressive regimes. Involved in the South African Liberation Movement and spent time in exile due to political activities.
Continue ReadingUlrich Beck
German sociologist and risk society theorist
Born
May 15th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent sociologist, contributed significantly to social theory with the concept of 'risk society.' Focused on the implications of modernity and globalization, examining how societal risks shape human behavior and institutional responses. Authored influential works, including 'Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity' and 'The Reinvention of Politics.' Explored themes of individualization, ecological crisis, and the transformation of social structures. Established a framework for understanding the relationship between risks and societal changes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 4th
Albert Camus
French philosopher and Nobel laureate
Born
November 7th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1960 65 years ago — 46 years old
A prominent novelist, philosopher, and journalist, this individual played a significant role in 20th-century literature and philosophy. Best known for works that explore themes of absurdism and existentialism, significant publications include 'The Stranger' and 'The Myth of Sisyphus'. Active during the French Resistance against Nazi occupation, contributions to political thought are also evident. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957 for writings marked by a deep concern for human rights and justice. This individual’s elaborate essays and novels inspired many intellectual circles.
Continue ReadingEdward William Cooke
English painter and illustrator of marine art
Born
March 27th, 1811 214 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1880 145 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent marine painter and illustrator, this individual specialized in detailed depictions of ships and maritime scenes. Early in the career, significant contributions were made to art exhibitions. The individual was a member of the Royal Academy and exhibited works that showcased the nautical world, predominantly during the 19th century. Works included depictions of naval battles and merchant ships, reflecting technological advancements in maritime industry. In addition to painting, illustrations were created for various publications, capturing the essence of maritime life. The use of light and detail in the artworks provided a vivid portrayal of the sea and its vessels.
Continue ReadingEduardo Mata
Mexican conductor and composer
Born
September 5th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1995 30 years ago — 52 years old
A noted conductor and composer, contributions to the world of classical music include leading the Mexican National Symphony Orchestra and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Mata conducted various performances of orchestral and choral works, both in Mexico and internationally. He also arranged music for significant cultural events and festivals, showcasing the richness of Mexican music. His expertise led to collaborations with renowned artists and participation in major musical festivals, enhancing the visibility of Mexican composers.
Continue ReadingErwin Schrödinger
Physicist, Nobel Prize winner 1933
Born
August 12th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1961 64 years ago — 73 years old
A physicist, contributions included formulating the wave equation that describes the wave function in quantum mechanics. Schrödinger's equation became fundamental in understanding the behavior of atomic and subatomic systems. He wrote the influential book 'What Is Life?', exploring the connections between physics and biology. His work laid the groundwork for the developments in quantum theory. In 1933, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on wave mechanics and its application to atomic structure.
Continue ReadingHumphrey Carpenter
English radio host and author
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2005 20 years ago — 59 years old
An author and radio host, contributed to literature and broadcasting in England. Authored biographies of prominent authors, including J.R.R. Tolkien, and produced works that examined the worlds of children's literature and poetry. Worked with the BBC, hosting various radio programs that showcased literature and arts. Recognized for insightful analysis and engaging storytelling, which brought literary figures to a broader audience.
Continue ReadingMarina Raskova
Russian pilot and navigator in WWII
Born
March 28th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1943 82 years ago — 30 years old
A pioneer in aviation, a prominent pilot and navigator served in the Soviet Air Force during World War II. Achieved distinction as the first female pilot to receive the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Instrumental in the creation of three all-female aviation regiments, including the 588th Night Bomber Regiment, which conducted numerous successful missions against enemy targets. Contributed to the training and organization of female pilots in a time when combat roles were predominantly male. Published memoirs detailing experiences in the war, enhancing understanding of women's contributions to military aviation.
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