Edme Mariotte

French physicist and priest

Edme Mariotte - Scientists & Innovators born 1620
Born

1620
406 years ago

Died
Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

France

Links & References

A French physicist and priest contributed significantly to the field of physics in the 17th century. His most notable work involved the study of gases, leading to the formulation of Mariotte's law, which describes the behavior of gases under pressure. He also made advancements in the understanding of optics and the principles of atmospheric pressure. His writings played an important role in the scientific discourse of the time, influencing subsequent thinkers and experiments in the field.

Formulated Mariotte's law of gases

Contributed to the study of optics

Other People Who Died on May 12th

Thomas Wentworth

1st Earl of Strafford, English politician
Born
April 13th, 1593 433 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1641 385 years ago — 48 years old

Held the title of 1st Earl of Strafford and served as a prominent English soldier and politician during the 17th century. Played a key role as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing the governance and administration of Ireland at a tumultuous time. Implemented administrative reforms aimed at strengthening royal authority, often leading to friction with local leaders and the English Parliament. His policies contributed to significant political unrest, culminating in his arrest and execution amid the struggles between monarchy and Parliament.

Continue Reading

Bedřich Smetana

Czech composer of classical music
Born
March 2nd, 1824 202 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1884 142 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1824, a Czech composer and pianist became a key figure in the development of Czech national music. His composition, 'The Bartered Bride,' gained international recognition for its incorporation of Czech folk themes. Smetana's work 'Má vlast' contains symphonic poems that celebrate the landscapes and history of Bohemia. Amidst his successful career, he also faced personal challenges, including hearing loss, which impacted his later compositions. His legacy endures through the influence on subsequent generations of composers in the classical genre.

Continue Reading

Charles Barry

Architect, designer of Palace of Westminster
Born
May 23rd, 1795 231 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1860 166 years ago — 64 years old

An English architect played a pivotal role in the development of Gothic Revival architecture. Designed the Palace of Westminster in London after the original building was destroyed by fire in 1834. Completed the iconic structure in 1876, establishing a landmark of British politics. Also designed Upper Brook Street Chapel in Manchester, showcasing neoclassical elements.

Continue Reading

Felix Steiner

SS officer and military leader
Born
May 23rd, 1896 130 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1966 60 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a high-ranking officer in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Commanded the SS division known as the 11th SS Volunteer Panzergrenadier Division Nordland. Participated in various military operations on the Eastern Front and played a significant role during the battles in the latter stages of the war. Post-war, faced legal issues related to wartime actions.

Continue Reading

Hussein Maziq

Libyan politician, Prime Minister
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2006 20 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Libya during the 1960s. Played a key role in government administration and policy-making in post-independence Libya. Focused on modernization and economic development initiatives. His tenure witnessed significant political changes in the region. Held office from 1964 until 1965, contributing to the country's early governance structure after gaining independence.

Continue Reading

Cornell Borchers

Lithuanian-German actress and singer
Born
March 16th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 12 years ago — 89 years old

Born in Lithuania, a prominent actress and singer emerged in post-World War II Germany. Initial performances were concentrated in theater, later transitioning to film. Gained recognition for roles in films during the 1950s, particularly featured in "The Tenth Victim" and "The Man Who Knew Too Much". Contributions extended to music, where performances included popular songs that resonated with audiences across Europe. Active in both fields throughout her life, left a legacy of artistic works appreciated in both theater and cinema.

Continue Reading