Fred Hoyle

Astronomer, author, and creator of the term 'Big Bang'

Fred Hoyle - Astronomer, author, and creator of the term 'Big Bang'
Born

June 24th, 1915
110 years ago

Died

August 20th, 2001
24 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English astronomer and author contributed significantly to the field of cosmology and astrophysics. Developed the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis, explaining how elements are formed within stars. Authored several influential books, including 'The Black Cloud' and 'Astronomy'. Coined the phrase 'Big Bang' in 1949 to describe a competing cosmological model, although he favored a different steady-state theory. His work spanned topics such as quasars, nucleosynthesis, and the origins of life in the universe.

Developed the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis

Coined the term 'Big Bang'

Authored 'The Black Cloud'

Other People Born on June 24th

Kevin Nolan

English footballer with West Ham United
Born
June 24th, 1982 43 years ago

A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Played for several clubs including Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United, and West Ham United. Achieved notable success in the Football League Championship and the Premier League. Later transitioned into management, taking on roles with various clubs in the English football league system.

Continue Reading

Duki

Argentinian rapper and songwriter
Born
June 24th, 1996 29 years ago

Emergence occurred in the mid-2010s within the Argentine trap music scene, gaining widespread popularity for unique sound and style. Initial rise was through collaborations and participation in freestyle rap battles. Breakthrough came with the release of singles, leading to a successful debut album that solidified a position in Latin American music. Influenced a new generation of artists in the genre.

Continue Reading

Marek Malík

Czech ice hockey player
Born
June 24th, 1975 50 years ago

Played professional ice hockey primarily as a defenseman. Had a notable career in the NHL, playing for the New York Rangers and the Carolina Hurricanes. Was an integral part of the Czech national team, contributing to their success in international competitions.

Continue Reading

Juan Larrea

Argentinian captain and politician
Born
June 24th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1847 178 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1782, served as a military captain during the early struggles for independence in Argentina. Participated in significant military campaigns against Spanish rule and contributed to the establishment of national governance. Involved in political affairs post-independence, focusing on the formation of a stable political environment. Played a role in shaping early Argentinian leadership frameworks.

Continue Reading

Terry Riley

American composer of minimal music
Born
June 24th, 1935 90 years ago

A pioneering figure in minimal music, this composer developed a distinct style characterized by repetition and improvisation. Significant works include the groundbreaking composition 'In C', which utilizes a series of short melodic fragments that can be played in varied sequences by multiple instruments. As an educator, contributions to experimental music continue to influence contemporary composers and musicians. His collaborations with renowned artists across genres expanded the reach and understanding of minimalist music.

Continue Reading

Robert Persons

Jesuit priest and author of resistance texts
Born
June 24th, 1546 479 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1610 415 years ago — 63 years old

An English Jesuit priest and author played a significant role in the Catholic resistance during the Elizabethan era. Engaged in efforts against Protestant rule, focused on the promotion of Catholicism in England. Established Jesuit missions and advocated for insurrection against the state to restore Catholic governance. Wrote extensively on religious and political themes, influencing the resistance through pamphlets and treatises. Contributed to the foundation of the English College at Rome, which trained priests for missionary work in England. His writings reflected his opposition to the English crown and Elizabeth I's policies, revealing the influence of Jesuit thinking in the theological debates of the time.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 20th

Bernard of Clairvaux

French theologian and saint
Born
1090 935 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1153 872 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent theologian and spiritual leader, this figure was instrumental in the founding of the Cistercian order. He authored numerous treatises on theology, including 'On Loving God' and 'Sermons on the Song of Songs.' His efforts in promoting the Second Crusade reflected a commitment to the church and its expansion. This individual was canonized as a saint in 1174 and became influential in medieval Catholic thought.

Continue Reading

Alexander Wassilko von Serecki

Austrian lawyer and politician
Born
December 17th, 1827 197 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1893 132 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1827, studied law and pursued a political career in Austria. Held various positions in the legal field and engaged in legislative work. Contributed to the development of legal frameworks and policies during tenure. Worked to address political issues of the time, influencing contemporary discussions on governance and law.

Continue Reading

Paul Ehrlich

Physician and biologist, Nobel laureate
Born
March 14th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1915 110 years ago — 61 years old

Contributions to immunology and chemotherapy marked significant advancements in medicine. Developed the first effective treatment for syphilis, employing Salvarsan, a compound that showed efficacy against the disease. Conducted pioneering work in the field of serology, and established concepts of antibodies and antigens, which laid the foundation for modern immunology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1908, along with Emil von Behring, for work on immunity. His research influenced the development of vaccines and therapeutic agents.

Continue Reading

Don Hassler

Saxophonist and composer in jazz
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

An American saxophonist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre with performances and compositions. Collaborated with various artists and ensembles throughout a career spanning several decades. Developed a unique style that blended traditional jazz elements with contemporary influences. Actively participated in music education, sharing expertise with aspiring musicians. Remained engaged in the jazz community until the end of life.

Continue Reading

Edmund Szoka

American cardinal and Vatican official
Born
September 14th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old

Ordained a priest in 1955, served in various capacities within the Archdiocese of Detroit. Appointed the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Kalamazoo in 1981, and subsequently became the 11th archbishop of Detroit in 1990. Elevated to cardinal in 1994, played a significant role in various Vatican congregations and councils. Instrumental in church reforms and leadership within the Catholic Church during his tenure. Retired in 2006 and continued service in various capacities until death in 2014.

Continue Reading

Thomas Herrion

American football player and offensive lineman
Born
December 15th, 1981 43 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 23 years old

Played professional American football as an offensive lineman. Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2004. Featured in the 2004 season with San Francisco, contributing to the team's offensive line. Played for multiple teams in the NFL including the 49ers and the Oakland Raiders. His career was marked by his dedication to the sport until untimely death in 2005.

Continue Reading