Friedrich Schottky
Mathematician and theoretical physicist
Born in 1851, contributions to mathematics and physics included the development of the Schottky diode, a semiconductor device vital in modern electronics. Worked extensively on thermionic emission and solid-state physics, enhancing the understanding of electron behavior in solids. Held academic positions, influencing the field of theoretical physics through research and publications.
Developed the Schottky diode
Contributed to solid-state physics
Research in thermionic emission
Other People Born on July 24th
Meisei Chikara
Sumo wrestler with a top division ranking
Born
July 24th, 1995 30 years ago
Competed in sumo wrestling since 2011, becoming a prominent figure in the sport. Achieved the rank of Makuuchi, the top division. Gained recognition for strength and technique in competition. Participated in various tournaments, contributing to the rich culture and history of sumo in Japan.
Continue ReadingCatherine of Saxony
Archduchess of Austria
Born
July 24th, 1468 557 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1524 501 years ago — 55 years old
Born into the House of Wettin, this archduchess served as a significant political figure in the early 16th century. Marriage to the influential Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I facilitated a union between powerful dynasties. Her tenure was marked by her role in the upbringing of Habsburg children, with particular focus on stabilizing political alliances through strategic marriages.
Continue ReadingRafer Alston
Basketball player and streetball legend
Born
July 24th, 1976 49 years ago
Played professional basketball primarily as a point guard. Gained initial recognition in streetball, particularly as 'Skip to My Lou' on the And1 Mixtape Tour. Transitioned to the NBA, playing for teams such as the Milwaukee Bucks, Toronto Raptors, and Orlando Magic. Achieved popularity for his flashy playmaking style and ball handling. Concluded his NBA career with the Houston Rockets.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Di Stefano
Italian tenor and opera singer
Born
July 24th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 2008 17 years ago — 86 years old
Di Stefano gained prominence as a tenor in the opera world during the mid-20th century. Significant performances took place at prestigious venues, cementing a reputation for powerful and expressive singing. The tenor collaborated with renowned conductors and other prominent opera singers, showcasing talent in leading roles within operas by Verdi and Puccini. His artistry and vocal prowess left a lasting legacy in the field of classical music. Later in his career, Di Stefano also ventured into acting, performing in film adaptations of operas, further broadening his artistic reach.
Continue ReadingMaria of the Palatinate-Simmern
Noblewoman and Landgravine of Hesse
Born
July 24th, 1561 464 years ago
Died
1589 437 years ago — 28 years old
Born in 1561, a member of the Palatinate-Simmern family, served as Landgravine of Hesse-Cassel through marriage. Became an influential figure in the region, involved in various political and social affairs of her time. Managed numerous responsibilities associated with noble duties and alliances during the late Renaissance period.
Continue ReadingRyan Johnson
Ice hockey player, USA National Team
Born
July 24th, 2001 24 years ago
Born in 2001, this American ice hockey player represented the USA in international competitions. Played as a defenseman and contributed to the team's performance in prestigious tournaments. Embarked on a professional career in the National Hockey League, showcasing skills and athleticism at the highest level. Made significant strides in youth leagues before securing a position on the national team, gaining recognition for defensive abilities and teamwork.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 12th
Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak
Mughal vizier and historian
Born
January 14th, 1551 475 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1602 423 years ago — 51 years old
Served as a prominent vizier in the Mughal Empire under Akbar the Great. Authored 'Akbarnama', a comprehensive history of Akbar's reign, and contributed to 'Ain-i-Akbari', a document detailing administration and culture. Provided counsel and played a key role in the formation of administrative policies and cultural patronage during this period.
Continue ReadingFreeman Freeman-Thomas
Soldier and politician, Governor General of Canada
Born
September 12th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1941 84 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 56th Governor General of Canada from 1926 to 1931. Held the title of 1st Marquess of Willingdon. Worked in various military roles, including service during World War I. Contributed to significant developments in Canadian governance during tenure as Governor General.
Continue ReadingJohannes Althusius
German jurist and political philosopher
Born
1557 469 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1638 387 years ago — 81 years old
A German jurist and philosopher contributed significantly to the development of early modern political thought. Althusius emphasized the importance of the commonwealth in his work, 'Politica,' which explored the relationship between authority and civil society. His ideas laid foundational concepts for later thinkers and influenced the discourse on federalism and governance. Active during the early 17th century, he engaged with contemporary legal and political theories, blending them with his interpretations of classical sources. His work examined governance, communal life, and legal frameworks through a lens that sought to harmonize individual rights with collective responsibilities.
Continue ReadingPope Innocent XI
Pope and reformer of the Catholic Church
Born
May 16th, 1611 414 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1689 336 years ago — 78 years old
Served as Pope from 1676 to 1689, overseeing significant church reforms and confronting the rising power of secular authorities. Tackled issues such as ecclesiastical discipline and financial administration within the Church. He is recognized for his opposition to the abuses of the Jesuits and their influence in Europe. Under his papacy, the church sought to restore its moral authority and address corruption. Faced challenges from emerging modern states and worked towards strengthening the papal power.
Continue ReadingCharles Martel
King of Hungary
Born
1271 755 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1295 730 years ago — 24 years old
Ruled as King of Hungary from 1282 until death in 1295. Engaged in military campaigns to assert and maintain central authority. Managed to stabilize the kingdom during a period of internal strife and external threats. Significant for consolidating power and laying groundwork for future governance.
Continue ReadingThomas Smith
English scholar and diplomat
Born
December 23rd, 1513 512 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1577 448 years ago — 63 years old
Engaged in extensive scholarship and served as a diplomat. Contributed significantly to the fields of political theory and history. Best known for his role as tutor to Edward VI, which established connections that influenced future diplomatic relationships. Instrumental in the development of official government documents and correspondence during a transformative period in England. Authored several important works that explored governance, economics, and society, providing insights that informed policies of the day.
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