George Jackson Churchward

Engineer and businessman in railways

George Jackson Churchward - Scientists & Innovators born 1857
Born

1857
169 years ago

Died
Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English engineer who played a significant role in the development of locomotive technology during the early 20th century. Served as Chief Mechanical Engineer for the Great Western Railway from 1902 to 1921, where improvements in locomotive design and efficiency occurred. Introduced the innovative 'Churchward Mogul' and 'Churchward Prairie' types of steam locomotives, which contributed to increased performance and reliability for rail transport. Implemented various engineering principles that enhanced both passenger and freight services.

Designed the Churchward Mogul locomotive

Introduced the Churchward Prairie locomotive

Oversaw mechanical improvements aligning with the 1906 locomotive regulations

Other People Who Died on December 19th

Elizabeth of Luxembourg

Medieval Queen of Bohemia
Born
October 7th, 1409 616 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1442 583 years ago — 33 years old

Elizabeth of Luxembourg served as the queen consort of Charles IV and played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire during the 14th century. Born into the prominent Luxembourg family, she married Charles IV in 1334, strengthening the ties between the Luxembourg dynasty and the Bohemian crown. Elizabeth became the mother of several children, including Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia. She held considerable influence over her husband's reign and participated actively in the governance of the realm, especially during Charles's absences. Her legacy continued through her children, contributing to the political landscape of Central Europe after her death in 1442.

Continue Reading

Jean-Baptiste van Loo

French painter known for portraiture
Born
January 14th, 1684 342 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1745 280 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent French painter from the 18th century, van Loo specialized in portrait painting and became a prominent figure in the French art scene. Working primarily in the style of Rococo, he produced many notable portraits for the French aristocracy. His academic career included serving as a member of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture. Van Loo spent several years in Italy, where he was influenced by the works of the Old Masters. After returning to France, he became court painter to King Louis XV and produced various works that captured the elegance and opulence of the period.

Continue Reading

Vincent Gigante

Boxer and organized crime figure
Born
March 29th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2005 20 years ago — 77 years old

Engaged in professional boxing in the 1940s and became a notable figure in organized crime. Led the Genovese crime family in New York City for decades. Known for employing various tactics to evade law enforcement, including pretending to be mentally ill. Operated within the complexities of the Mafia while influencing significant activities in organized crime during the mid to late 20th century.

Continue Reading

Stephen Warfield Gambrill

American lawyer and politician
Born
October 2nd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1938 87 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a lawyer and a politician in the United States. Held the position of State's Attorney for Baltimore City. Played a significant role in local governance and legal frameworks during the early 20th century. Engaged in various civic activities and contributed to the legal profession. Actively participated in political discourse surrounding law and governance in Maryland.

Continue Reading

Pope Urban V

Pope and ecclesiastical leader
Born
1310 716 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1370 655 years ago — 60 years old

Ascended to the papacy in 1362, serving until death in 1370. Focused on reforming the church and returning the papacy to Rome from Avignon. Initiated efforts to reinforce ecclesiastical discipline and fostered peace in Italy through diplomatic means. Actively opposed the growing influence of secular rulers over church affairs. Worked to enhance the educational standards within the clergy. Promoted the construction of churches and monasteries, emphasizing the importance of education in faith.

Continue Reading

Robert Bork

American lawyer and Attorney General
Born
March 1st, 1927 99 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the United States Attorney General and was a prominent legal scholar. Played a significant role in the legal philosophy surrounding originalism and textualism. Nominated to the Supreme Court in 1987 but was not confirmed. Authored several influential books on legal theory and constitutional interpretation.

Continue Reading