Frederick August Otto Schwarz

Businessman, founder of FAO Schwarz

Frederick August Otto Schwarz - Thinkers & Philosophers born 1836
Born

1836
190 years ago

Died
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in Germany, achieved prominence as a businessman in the United States after emigrating. Established FAO Schwarz, a toy retailer recognized for its innovative and high-quality products. The company became a significant part of American retail culture, known for its elaborate displays and engaging shopping experiences. The flagship store in New York City attracted families and children, solidifying the brand's reputation in the toy industry.

Founded FAO Schwarz in 1862

Expanded toy retailing into a prominent business

Other People Who Died on May 17th

Asa Packer

American businessman and university founder
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1879 147 years ago — 74 years old

A businessman from Pennsylvania, established a significant fortune in the railroad industry. Founded Lehigh University in 1865, contributing to higher education in the region. Involved in various philanthropic efforts aimed at supporting education and infrastructure development in Pennsylvania. His investments in railroads had a lasting influence on regional commerce.

Continue Reading

Catherine I of Russia

Empress of Russia and wife of Peter I
Born
April 15th, 1684 342 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1727 299 years ago — 43 years old

Ascended to the throne as Empress of Russia following the death of Peter the Great in 1725. Catherine I was originally a peasant from Livonia, later marrying Peter in 1707. During her reign, she focused on continuing Peter's policies and strengthening the Russian state. Her rule lasted for just over a year, ending with her death in 1727. Catherine was the first woman to hold the title of Empress of Russia and laid the foundation for future female leadership in Russia.

Continue Reading

Walasse Ting

Painter and poet, known for vibrant works
Born
October 13th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2010 16 years ago — 80 years old

Born in China in 1929, a painter and poet relocated to the United States, where a successful career unfolded. Known for colorful works that reflect elements of both Eastern and Western influences. His painting style integrated bright colors and bold strokes, capturing the essence of contemporary art. Contributions comprised not only visual art but also poetry, showcasing a unique blend of imagery and text. Achievements included numerous exhibitions across the United States and Europe, along with a prominent presence in the New York art scene during the mid-20th century. In later years, continued to create art until death in 2010.

Continue Reading

Leopold Auenbrugger

Austrian physician and inventor of percussion
Born
November 19th, 1722 303 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1809 217 years ago — 86 years old

A physician developed the technique of percussion for diagnosing diseases. This innovation transformed clinical practices. Initial experiments involved using his own chest as a model to demonstrate the value of tapping and feeling the chest wall to gather diagnostic information. The technique was outlined in a treatise published in 1761, which laid the groundwork for modern physical examination methods. The work emphasized the importance of systematic observation in medicine and was influential in the fields of internal medicine and diagnostics.

Continue Reading

Samuel Clarke

English minister and philosopher
Born
October 11th, 1675 351 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1729 297 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent English minister and philosopher, contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy during the early 18th century. Engaged in debates on metaphysics and ethics, favoring rationalism and the use of logic in religious discourse. Published influential works such as 'A Discourse Concerning the Being and Attributes of God' which discussed the nature of divinity. Clarke also played a role in the development of early modern philosophy, particularly in the areas of free will and moral responsibility.

Continue Reading

René Caillié

Explorer of Africa, author of travelogue
Born
1799 227 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1838 188 years ago — 39 years old

Traveled across Africa, reaching Timbuktu in 1827. First European to return from Timbuktu alive, laying the groundwork for future explorers. Published a travelogue detailing the journey, increasing interest in African exploration.

Continue Reading