Farkas Bolyai
Hungarian mathematician and academic
Contributed significantly to the development of non-Euclidean geometry. Established mathematical theories alongside his son, János Bolyai. Served as a professor at the University of Marosvásárhely. Published works that laid foundational insights for later mathematical advancements, influencing both geometry and philosophy of mathematics.
Co-authored foundational work in non-Euclidean geometry
Served as a professor in mathematics
Influenced the development of modern geometry
Other People Born on February 9th
Niclas Füllkrug
Professional German footballer
Born
February 9th, 1993 33 years ago
Professionally played football primarily as a striker. Began career at Werder Bremen and made significant contributions to the team's performance. Transferred to Hannover 96 and later joined Borussia Dortmund. Achieved recognition for scoring goals in the Bundesliga and represented the national team in international competitions.
Continue ReadingMichael B. Jordan
American Actor in Black Panther
Born
February 9th, 1987 39 years ago
An American actor achieved recognition for roles in television and film. Gained prominence through the portrayal of Wallace in the series The Wire and as Erik Killmonger in the blockbuster film Black Panther. Additionally starred in the critically acclaimed film Fruitvale Station, which highlighted the life of Oscar Grant. Other notable performances included roles in Creed and its sequel, Creed II, where portrayed the character Adonis Creed, the son of the legendary boxer Apollo Creed.
Continue ReadingMagdalena Neuner
Biathlete with multiple World Championship titles
Born
February 9th, 1987 39 years ago
A German biathlete achieved significant success in the sport, winning numerous titles during a competitive career. Won two gold medals at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, excelling in both the sprint and pursuit events. Dominated the IBU World Championships, securing 12 gold medals, establishing a reputation as a top competitor in biathlon. Retired from competitive sports in 2012, leaving a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingPhil Ford
Basketball player and coach
Born
February 9th, 1956 70 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of North Carolina, winning the NCAA Championship in 1982. Had a successful career in the NBA, playing for the Kansas City Kings and the New Jersey Nets. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and served in various assistant coaching roles, contributing to player development and team strategy.
Continue ReadingAndré Burakovsky
Ice Hockey Player, Stanley Cup Winner
Born
February 9th, 1995 31 years ago
Played as a forward in the National Hockey League, primarily for the Washington Capitals and the Colorado Avalanche. Won the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals in 2018. Contributed significantly during the playoffs, showcasing scoring ability and playmaking skills. Also represented Sweden in international competitions, including the World Junior Championships.
Continue ReadingErich von Drygalski
German geographer and geophysicist
Born
February 9th, 1865 161 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1949 77 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to geography and geophysics. Led the First German Antarctic Expedition in 1901-1903, conducting extensive research and mapping in the region. Served as a professor at the University of Berlin and was involved in various scientific organizations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Charles Plumier
French botanist and author of Plant Catalogs
Born
April 20th, 1646 379 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1704 321 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent botanist, contributed significantly to the field of botany in the 17th century. Conducted extensive explorations in the Caribbean, documenting various plant species. Published several works, including 'Nova Plantarum Americanarum Genera', which described previously unknown plants. His detailed illustrations and writings greatly advanced botanical knowledge and classification. Developed a systematic approach to the study of plants, influencing future botanical research and exploration.
Continue ReadingEnnio Flaiano
Italian author and screenwriter
Born
March 5th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1972 53 years ago — 62 years old
An author, screenwriter, and critic, contributed significantly to Italian literature and cinema. Wrote screenplays for several acclaimed films and authored notable literary works. His writing style combined wit with a keen sense of observation, often exploring themes of existentialism. Received the Strega Prize in 1975 for the novel 'Tempo di uccidere', which gained recognition for its poignant narrative. Worked in various capacities within the Italian film industry and was involved in directing and producing.
Continue ReadingIan Smith
Prime Minister of Rhodesia
Born
April 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the first Prime Minister of Rhodesia from 1965 to 1979, leading the country during its Unilateral Declaration of Independence from Britain. Played a crucial role in the Rhodesian Bush War, a conflict between the white-minority government and black nationalist movements. Advocated for minority rule and resistance against majority governance and was involved in negotiations that ultimately led to the end of white-minority rule. After leaving office, resided in South Africa.
Continue ReadingJim Perry
Game Show Host and Television Personality
Born
November 9th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old
Perry began a career in television as a performer and eventually became a prominent game show host. He hosted several popular game shows throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with his most notable work being on 'Card Sharks' and 'The Game Show Network.' His engaging style and ability to connect with contestants contributed to the success of these shows. Additionally, Perry participated in various other television programs as an actor and announcer.
Continue ReadingFaiz Ahmad Faiz
Pakistani poet, journalist, and playwright
Born
February 13th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1984 41 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1911, this poet and journalist contributed significantly to Urdu literature and progressive writing in Pakistan. His poetry often addressed issues of social justice and human rights. He served as an editor for several notable publications and was an active participant in literary and political movements. The poet's works, marked by their lyrical beauty and profound themes, earned him recognition across the subcontinent. His collection 'Nuskha-e-Wafa' remains widely celebrated, showcasing his mastery of language and ability to convey deep emotions.
Continue ReadingGiorgio de Chirico
Painter and set designer of metaphysical art
Born
July 10th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1978 47 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Greece and later relocating to Italy, this painter became a significant figure in the early 20th century art movement known as metaphysical painting. The works often feature enigmatic and desolate landscapes filled with classical architecture and elongated shadows. This artist's unique approach influenced the Surrealists and created a distinctive visual language. Key works include 'The Melancholy of Departure,' which exemplifies the dreamlike quality of metaphysical art, and 'The Painter's Family,' showcasing the use of stillness and profound symbolism. In addition to painting, also contributed to theater as a set designer, enriching stage productions with imaginative backdrops.
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