Georges Lemaître

Astronomer and creator of the Big Bang theory

Georges Lemaître - Astronomer and creator of the Big Bang theory
Born

July 17th, 1894
130 years ago

Died

June 20th, 1966
58 years ago — 71 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Belgium

Links & References

A Belgian priest and scientist contributed foundational concepts to modern cosmology. Lemaître proposed the hypothesis of the expanding universe, which later became known as the Big Bang theory. In 1927, published a groundbreaking paper outlining the relation between the distance of galaxies and the redshift observed in their light. This work laid the groundwork for much of contemporary cosmological thought. Prior to this, contributed to the field of mathematics and physics, developing significant theories that influenced various areas of science. Lemaître's religious background provided a unique perspective on the intersection of science and faith.

Proposed the Big Bang theory

Published work on the expanding universe

Other People Born on July 17th

Toni Stone

Professional baseball player, first female in MLB.
Born
July 17th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 75 years old

Became the first woman to play in a major men's professional baseball league. Played in the Negro Leagues for the San Francisco Sea Lions and Indianapolis Clowns. Demonstrated exceptional skill and determination as an infielder. Her career in the Negro Leagues spanned from 1950 to 1954, contributing to the integration of women into professional sports.

Continue Reading

Quino

Cartoonist and creator of Mafalda
Born
July 17th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

A cartoonist gained recognition for creating the beloved character Mafalda, an inquisitive girl known for her critique of society and politics. Mafalda first appeared in 1964 and became a cultural icon in Argentina and beyond. The artist's work often reflected themes of social justice, political commentary, and human rights through humor and satire. Graphic works reached international audiences and were translated into many languages, contributing to the global appreciation of comic art. This cartoonist received numerous accolades for contributions to art and literature.

Continue Reading

Dagmara Domińczyk

Polish-American actress in prominent films
Born
July 17th, 1976 48 years ago

Born in 1976, this Polish-American actress gained recognition for performances in television and film. Appeared in the critically acclaimed series 'The Sopranos' as a recurring character, contributing to the show's popularity. Played a role in the movie '24: Redemption', expanding presence in the action genre. Domińczyk has also been involved in theater productions, showcasing versatile acting skills on stage.

Continue Reading

Patrick Smith

Irish politician and agriculture minister
Born
July 17th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1982 43 years ago — 80 years old

Served as Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine in Ireland. Engaged in agricultural policy and legislation during a pivotal time for the farming community. Played a significant role in addressing the needs of Irish farmers, focusing on food production and sustainability. Contributed to various initiatives that impacted the agricultural landscape of Ireland. His tenure included efforts aimed at enhancing the agricultural sector and supporting local farmers.

Continue Reading

Wong Kar-wai

Film director known for In the Mood for Love
Born
July 17th, 1958 66 years ago

Born in Shanghai and raised in Hong Kong, a prominent figure in the Hong Kong film industry. Directed several critically acclaimed films, particularly noted for a unique visual style and narrative structure. Gained international recognition through works that explore themes of love, longing, and memory. Major films include 'Chungking Express' and 'In the Mood for Love', which received numerous awards and nominations at film festivals worldwide.

Continue Reading

Shmuel Yosef Agnon

Ukrainian-Israeli novelist and poet
Born
July 17th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1970 55 years ago — 81 years old

Agnon was a Ukrainian-Israeli novelist, short story writer, and poet. Born in Ukraine, he immigrated to Palestine in the early 20th century, contributing significantly to Hebrew literature. His works often explored themes of Jewish identity and tradition. In 1966, Agnon received the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognized for his mastery in weaving folklore and contemporary experiences. His stories and novels remain pivotal in Hebrew literature.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 20th

Axel von Fersen the Younger

Swedish general and politician
Born
September 4th, 1755 269 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1810 214 years ago — 54 years old

Served as a prominent general and politician in Sweden during the 18th century. Participated significantly in the Swedish military during the Russo-Swedish War. Held influential positions within the Swedish government and was involved in various political movements. Advocated for military reforms and modernization within the Swedish army. Maintained connections with other European powers and played a role in the politics of his time.

Continue Reading

John Neal

American writer, critic, and activist
Born
August 25th, 1793 231 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1876 148 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent figure in American literature during the 19th century, contributed significantly as a writer, editor, and critic. Played a key role in advocating for the Romantic literary movement in the United States. Edited various influential literary journals and worked to support emerging American authors. Lectured widely on subjects related to literature and culture, influencing contemporaries and future generations. Engaged in social issues, promoting abolition and women’s rights, reflecting the changing societal norms of the era.

Continue Reading

Pierre Claude François Daunou

French historian and politician
Born
1761 264 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1840 184 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent French historian and politician, contributed significantly to the political landscape during the early 19th century. Actively participated in the transformation of France's political framework following the Revolution. Served as a member of the French Parliament and held various governmental positions. Authored important historical texts focusing on the Revolution and its aftermath, highlighting the socio-political changes of the period.

Continue Reading

Angelo Niculescu

Football manager and player
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2015 9 years ago — 94 years old

Played as a forward and later became a football manager. Managed the Romanian national team, leading them during the 1970 FIFA World Cup. Coached several club teams, including Steaua București and FC Argeș Pitești, achieving domestic league success.

Continue Reading

Erwin Chargaff

Biochemist and DNA structure contributor
Born
August 11th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2002 22 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Austria and later becoming an American citizen, Chargaff made significant contributions to biochemistry and molecular biology. He is best recognized for formulating Chargaff's rules, which describe the base pairing in DNA. His research laid critical groundwork for understanding the structure of DNA, influencing later discoveries in genetics. Chargaff was a professor at Columbia University, where he educated future scientists.

Continue Reading

Abraham Gotthelf Kästner

German mathematician and epigrammatist
Born
September 27th, 1719 305 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1800 224 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1719, a mathematician and epigrammatist contributed significantly to mathematics and literature. Kästner was influential in promoting mathematical thought and education through teaching and writing. His works included textbooks and studies that facilitated understanding of various mathematical concepts. He also wrote epigrams that reflected societal themes and intellectual ideas of the time, showcasing wit and insight. Beyond academia, Kästner's engagement with mathematical societies and his role in academic circles helped advance the discipline in Germany.

Continue Reading