Franz Mesmer

Physician and astrologist, developed mesmerism

Franz Mesmer - Physician and astrologist, developed mesmerism
Born

May 23rd, 1734
290 years ago

Died

March 5th, 1815
210 years ago — 80 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Germany

Links & References

A German physician and astrologist, contributed significantly to medical practices in the 18th century. Developed the theory of 'animal magnetism,' which led to the practice of mesmerism, a method intended to cure ailments by using magnetic forces. This theory gained considerable attention and spurred debates in medical and scientific communities. Opened a clinic in Vienna where treatment sessions were conducted. Later moved to Paris, where the practice attracted both attention and criticism, ultimately influencing the development of hypnosis. Placed greater emphasis on the connection between mind and body in healing.

Developed the theory of animal magnetism

Conducted prominent mesmerism sessions in Vienna

Influenced early approaches to hypnosis

Other People Born on May 23rd

Scott Raynor

American drummer from Blink-182
Born
May 23rd, 1978 46 years ago

Started drumming at a young age and joined the pop-punk band Blink-182 in 1992. Contributed to the band's rise in popularity during the 1990s with albums such as 'Dude Ranch' and 'Enema of the State'. Departed from the band in 1998, focusing on other musical projects. Played with various other bands throughout his career while continuing to be involved in the music scene.

Continue Reading

Brian Campbell

Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
May 23rd, 1979 45 years ago

This Canadian ice hockey player played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). Starting the NHL career with the Buffalo Sabres, contributions included participating in the 2006 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Later, played for the Chicago Blackhawks, winning the Stanley Cup in 2010. Ended the career with the Florida Panthers after a significant tenure. Represented Canada internationally, playing in the World Championships.

Continue Reading

S. Donald Stookey

American physicist and inventor of CorningWare
Born
May 23rd, 1915 109 years ago
Died
November 4th, 2014 10 years ago — 99 years old

Born in 1915, this physicist and chemist contributed significantly to materials science. The invention of CorningWare revolutionized cooking and kitchenware, combining unique properties of glass and ceramic. This product gained widespread usage in homes and food service. Additionally, work on photo-sensitive glass led to advancements in imaging technology. The influence of these inventions extended into both culinary and industrial applications.

Continue Reading

Luís Roberto Alves

Mexican footballer with World Cup participation
Born
May 23rd, 1967 57 years ago

Born in 1967, this footballer played as a forward and became a prominent figure in Mexican football during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Key contributions included performances in domestic leagues and for the national team. The player participated in the 1994 FIFA World Cup held in the United States, representing Mexico. Throughout a successful club career, he played for teams in both Mexico and Spain, achieving recognition for skillful play and goal-scoring ability.

Continue Reading

Ernst Niekisch

Educator and German politician
Born
May 23rd, 1889 135 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1967 57 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Germany in 1889, contributed significantly to educational reforms and political ideologies. Niekisch served as an educator and became actively involved in politics during the Weimar Republic. He founded the journal 'Die Tat' in 1926, which discussed various social and political issues of the time. Throughout his career, he engaged in various political movements and was a prominent figure in the movement advocating for a new form of socialism that emphasized nationalism. His work aligned with a call for social justice and reform within the context of German society during a vexed historical period. Niekisch faced political challenges and was imprisoned under the Nazi regime due to his opposition to their policies.

Continue Reading

Epitácio Pessoa

Brazilian politician and former president
Born
May 23rd, 1865 159 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1942 83 years ago — 76 years old

A lawyer and judge, held the office of 11th President of Brazil from 1919 to 1922. Oversaw a period of relative political stability and economic progress in the country. Developed policies that promoted infrastructure improvements and modernization of the Brazilian economy. Involved in various legal and political reforms during tenure as president, shaping the future governance of Brazil.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 5th

William O. Wooldridge

American Army Sergeant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old

Served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in combat. Demonstrated extraordinary heroism in the face of enemy fire, showcasing bravery and commitment to duty. Contributions recognized by peers and military officials.

Continue Reading

Anna Akhmatova

Poet, author, translator, and memorialist
Born
June 23rd, 1889 135 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1966 59 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent poet and translator from Ukraine, her work reflected the struggles of life in Russia during tumultuous times. She belonged to the Acmeist movement, which emphasized clarity and precision in poetry. Akhmatova's most recognized work includes the poem series 'Requiem,' which memorializes the suffering of those persecuted during the Stalinist purges. This poignant work gained international acclaim and solidified her position as one of the greatest Russian poets of the 20th century. Throughout her life, Akhmatova faced censorship and personal loss but continued to write until her death in 1966, leaving behind a legacy of literary achievement that influenced generations of writers.

Continue Reading

Franz Mertens

Mathematician and academic from Austria
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1927 98 years ago — 87 years old

A mathematician and academic contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and number theory. Mertens held academic positions in various universities where he advanced mathematical research and education. The Mertens conjecture, which addressed the asymptotic behavior of the sum of the reciprocals of prime numbers, is among his notable contributions. Published works included textbooks that became integral to mathematical studies.

Continue Reading

Chen Cheng

Chinese Politician, Vice President
Born
January 4th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1965 60 years ago — 68 years old

Involved in the political landscape of the Republic of China, served as Vice President from 1954 to 1960. Played a significant role in various governmental reforms and military affairs during his tenure. His early career included military service during the Second Sino-Japanese War, and he rose to prominence in the nationalist government. Engaged in post-war reconstruction efforts and foreign relations, particularly with the United States. Contributed to the development of policies aimed at stabilizing the Taiwanese economy during a pivotal period. Oversaw military strategies as the head of the Central Military Commission.

Continue Reading

Philip Madoc

Welsh-English actor, most famous for 'The Siege of Jadotville'
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old

An accomplished actor with a career spanning several decades, performed in numerous television series and films. Gained recognition for roles in 'Doctor Who', 'The Drought', and 'The Siege of Jadotville'. Also had notable appearances in British television classics such as 'The Sweeney' and 'Midsomer Murders'. Participated in the Royal Shakespeare Company, showcasing a strong theatre background. Contributed to the arts until the end of life, with various roles highlighting his versatile acting skills.

Continue Reading

Suppo I

Frankish nobleman and ruler
Died
March 5th, 824 1201 years ago — None years old

From a prominent noble family in the Frankish realm, significant contributions to the political landscape during the early medieval period occurred. Served in various capacities, including as a count. Engaged in the consolidation of power among the nobility and played a role in the governance of territories under Frankish control during a time of great transition.

Continue Reading