Freeman Dyson
Physicist and mathematician, wrote 'Disturbing the Universe'
Born
December 15th, 1923
101 years ago
Died
February 28th, 2020
5 years ago — 96 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in England, renounced British citizenship and became a naturalized American citizen. Contributed significantly to quantum mechanics, nuclear engineering, and space propulsion concepts. Worked at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, for several decades. Authored many influential papers and books, including 'Disturbing the Universe,' discussing the implications of science and technology on society. Developed strategies for space travel and theorized about extraterrestrial life and civilizations. Proposed the Dyson Sphere, a hypothetical megastructure that could encompass a star to capture its energy. Involved in various controversial discussions around climate change and technological advancements.
Authored 'Disturbing the Universe'
Proposed the concept of the Dyson Sphere
Other People Born on December 15th
Paul Simonon
A musician and songwriter, contributed as the bassist for the influential punk rock band The Clash. The band's album 'London Calling' received critical acclaim and has been cited as one of the greatest albums of all time. Simonon also pursued a solo career and explored visual art, with works featured in exhibitions.
Continue ReadingChandler Canterbury
Debuted in the film industry with a significant role in 'The Last Airbender'. Also appeared in 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button' and various television shows. Participated in multiple projects across different genres, showcasing versatility in acting. Developed a presence in the entertainment industry during the late 2000s and early 2010s.
Continue ReadingAlex Cox
An English film director, screenwriter, actor, non-fiction author, and broadcaster, directed several cult classic films throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Gained recognition with the film 'Repo Man' in 1984, which became a hallmark of punk cinema. Also directed 'Sid and Nancy' in 1986, examining the tumultuous life of Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols. Involved in various television projects and authored non-fiction works, focusing on cinema and politics.
Continue ReadingAaron Miles
Played Major League Baseball as an infielder for several teams, including the Kansas City Royals, Chicago Cubs, and St. Louis Cardinals. Served as a coach after retiring from professional play, contributing to team development and player performance.
Continue ReadingRudi Protrudi
A musician with a career spanning decades, contributed to the American rock and alternative music scene. Gained prominence in the 1980s with the band The Fuzztones, known for the revival of 1960s garage rock. Released several albums and singles, showcasing a distinctive sound that blends psychedelia and garage rock. Also active as a producer, collaborating with various artists in the music industry.
Continue ReadingEdna O'Brien
Born in 1930, this writer began her career in the 1960s, focusing on themes of female identity and social constraints in Irish society. The debut novel, 'The Country Girls', faced controversy for its candid portrayal of women's lives. O'Brien published numerous novels, plays, and short stories, often drawing on personal experiences and historical events. In addition to fiction, she wrote screenplays and adapted her works for stage and cinema, enhancing her profile in the literary world.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 28th
Ruby Keeler
An influential actress and dancer, starred in several hit Broadway productions during the 1920s and 1930s. Gained notoriety for performances in musicals such as 'No, No, Nanette' and 'Sugar Babies'. Transitioned to film, featuring in Warner Bros. musical films like '42nd Street' and 'Gold Diggers of 1933'. Her contributions to musical theatre and film solidified her prominence in the entertainment industry. Continued performing until the 1980s, showcasing a lasting commitment to dance and musical performance.
Continue ReadingGuillaume Bigourdan
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy. Focused on the study of the moon and other celestial bodies. Served as a professor and researcher at various French institutions. Participated in astronomical observations and authored several papers that advanced understanding of lunar phenomena. Actively involved in international astronomical societies and contributed to the development of new methodologies in astronomical research.
Continue ReadingCharles Nicolle
A French biologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of disease transmission. In 1928, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for discoveries related to typhus fever and the role of lice as vectors of disease. His research laid the groundwork for advances in public health and preventive medicine. Beyond the Nobel Prize, served as a director of the Pasteur Institute in Tunis, where important work on infectious diseases was conducted. Published over 200 papers and continued to influence the field of microbiology until death in 1936.
Continue ReadingKhosrow II
Ruled as Shah of the Sasanian Empire from 590 to 628. His reign was marked by a restoration of the Persian state, engaging in significant military campaigns, particularly against the Byzantine Empire. Khosrow II successfully captured Jerusalem in 614, leading to the acquisition of the True Cross. His governance included administrative reforms and advancements in arts and architecture. The latter part of his rule faced internal strife and external pressures, culminating in a revolt that led to his downfall and death.
Continue ReadingChris Curtis
A singer and drummer from England, gained recognition as a member of the band The Searchers, which achieved significant popularity in the 1960s. Contributed to the band's distinctive sound with his vocals and drumming, leading to several chart-topping hits. The Searchers became part of the British Invasion in the United States, establishing a strong fan base and performing internationally. Later in his career, worked with other musical groups and continued to perform.
Continue ReadingEddie "Rochester" Anderson
An American actor and comedian, one of the first black performers to gain mainstream success in American entertainment. Achieved widespread recognition for work on 'The Jack Benny Show', where the character provided comic relief and became a beloved figure in humor. His contributions to the show helped solidify its place in American television history. Also starred in films and was active in radio performances, showcasing talent across multiple mediums.
Continue Reading