Friedrich Bessel

Astronomer celebrated for stellar parallax.

Friedrich Bessel - Scientists & Innovators born July 22nd, 1784
Born
Died
Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Germany

Links & References

Contributed significantly to the fields of astronomy and mathematics. Developed methods for measuring stellar parallax, providing evidence for the heliocentric model and establishing the first accurate metric system of astronomy. Worked on the precise measurement of star positions and created Bessel functions, aiding potential solutions in physical problems. The first person to successfully identify the distance to a star beyond the solar system.

Measured the parallax of 61 Cygni

Developed Bessel functions

Created accurate astronomical star catalogs

Other People Born on July 22nd

John Scrope

5th Baron Scrope of Bolton, English Baron
Born
July 22nd, 1437 588 years ago
Died
1498 528 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1437, held the title of 5th Baron Scrope of Bolton. Participated in the Wars of the Roses, aligning with the Yorkist faction. Actively engaged in political and military affairs, often providing support to notable leaders of the period. Held positions that allowed influence in local governance and military initiatives, particularly in the north of England.

Continue Reading

Georg Wilhelm Richmann

Physicist and academic, lightning researcher
Born
July 22nd, 1711 314 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1753 272 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1711, a physicist and academic conducted significant research on electricity and atmospheric phenomena. Most notable was the investigation into lightning rods, which led to experimentation with lightning during thunderstorms. A member of the St. Petersburg Academy of Sciences, Richmann contributed to the advancement of electrometry and developed the first electrostatic generator in Russia. He faced challenges in his studies due to technological limitations, yet his work laid groundwork for later research in electricity and meteorology. Tragically, Richmann died in 1753 during an experiment when lightning struck him, marking a notable event in the history of scientific inquiry.

Continue Reading

Adolphus Frederick V

Grand Duke with royal family ties
Born
July 22nd, 1848 177 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1914 112 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1848, held the title of Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz from 1914 until his death in 1918. Part of the German nobility, presided over various court functions and responsibilities. Contributed to the cultural life in the region and managed the duchy during a tumultuous time in German history, including the aftermath of World War I.

Continue Reading

Katarina Stenbock

Queen of Sweden and noblewoman
Born
July 22nd, 1535 490 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1621 404 years ago — 86 years old

Born into Swedish nobility, this individual became the second wife of King Gustav I of Sweden. The marriage was a strategic alliance that helped solidify the power of the monarchy during the formation of a centralized Swedish state. Following the marriage, she became queen consort and played a significant role in the royal court. Her influence extended to matters of governance and household management within the realm. After her husband's death, she continued to be associated with the royal family and the stability of the nascent Sweden. The legacy of the queen remained through her descendants and her contributions to the history of Sweden.

Continue Reading

Alex Trebek

Game show host of Jeopardy!
Born
July 22nd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
November 8th, 2020 5 years ago — 80 years old

A game show host and producer, he became a prominent television personality through the long-running quiz show 'Jeopardy!', which debuted in 1964. He hosted 'Jeopardy!' from 1984 until his passing in 2020, guiding contestants in their pursuit of trivia knowledge. Trebek was awarded multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Game Show Host and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his television career. His experience in broadcasting also included hosting and producing various other shows before and during his time on 'Jeopardy!'. Trebek helped popularize quiz shows in America and became synonymous with the format.

Continue Reading

Bob Dole

American politician and legislative leader
Born
July 22nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2021 4 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1923, a significant figure in American politics and law, served as a soldier during World War II, where sustained injuries that affected mobility. Held multiple prominent positions including U.S. Senator from Kansas and Senate Majority Leader. Contended as the Republican candidate for President in 1996 against Bill Clinton. His legislative work included efforts on tax reform and veterans' affairs, advocating for the needs of those who served in the military. Post-political career involved significant engagement in various charitable activities. Dole passed away in 2021.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 17th

Dinkar G. Kelkar

Indian art collector and curator
Born
January 10th, 1896 130 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1990 36 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to the promotion of Indian art through collection and curation. Focused on artwork that represents India's cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional art forms. Established a prominent art museum that houses a vast collection of Indian artifacts and paintings. Actively engaged in art advocacy and played a vital role in encouraging contemporary artists in India.

Continue Reading

Phan Văn Khải

Vietnamese Prime Minister, 2001-2006
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2018 8 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the fifth Prime Minister of Vietnam from 2001 to 2006. Played a key role in the country's economic reforms and integration into the global economy. Oversaw significant events such as Vietnam's entry into the World Trade Organization and hosted the 2006 APEC Summit in Hanoi. His leadership focused on advancements in trade and investment.

Continue Reading

Clarence D. Lester

American fighter pilot
Born
February 23rd, 1923 103 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1986 40 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1923, served as a fighter pilot during World War II, achieving notable acclaim for flying various aircraft, including the P-51 Mustang. Contributed to aerial combat missions in the European theater. After the war, continued a career in aviation, later reflecting on experiences as a pilot in relation to military history and strategy.

Continue Reading

Dai Li

Chinese general of the Nationalist Army
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1946 80 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent general in the Nationalist Army during the Second Sino-Japanese War, played a significant role in military operations and strategies against Japanese forces. Established and led the Military Intelligence Service, contributing to intelligence efforts for the Nationalists. After the war, involved in the Chinese Civil War before relocating and facing challenges in later years due to political changes.

Continue Reading

Margaret Whitlam

Australian swimmer and author
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2012 14 years ago — 93 years old

An accomplished swimmer, achieved international success in the 100-meter freestyle during the 1930s. Competed at the 1938 Empire Games, earning a gold medal, which highlighted a prominent swimming career. Later authored several books, engaging with topics related to her experiences and personal insights. Contributed to literature and public discourse through writing.

Continue Reading

Kazan

Emperor of Japan during the Heian period
Died
March 17th, 1008 1018 years ago — None years old

Ascended to the throne in 985 during the Heian period of Japan. His reign was marked by a focus on court culture and the arts. Sought to foster tranquility and stability within the imperial court. Governed until his death in 1008, and his reign contributed to the development of Japanese literature and poetry.

Continue Reading