Georges Lemaître
Astronomer and creator of the Big Bang theory
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
Darius Boyd
Rugby league player, State of Origin star
Born
July 17th, 1987 38 years ago
Played rugby league professionally in Australia, primarily as a fullback and prominently for the Brisbane Broncos. Won three NRL premierships and represented Queensland in the State of Origin series multiple times. Achieved significant success throughout a career spanning over a decade, being a key player in his teams' performances. His contributions to the Broncos helped solidify the team's status in the National Rugby League.
Continue ReadingLoui Eriksson
Swedish ice hockey left winger
Born
July 17th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, Eriksson began a professional career in ice hockey with the Dallas Stars after being drafted in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. He played for the Stars from 2006 to 2013, contributing significantly to the team's performance. A standout season came in 2011 when he achieved a career-high in goals. After his tenure in Dallas, Eriksson joined the Boston Bruins, where he was part of a team that reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 2013. He later played for the Vancouver Canucks and the Arizona Coyotes, showcasing consistent offensive skills. Internationally, Eriksson represented Sweden in several tournaments, including the IIHF World Championships and the Winter Olympics.
Continue ReadingBrett Goldstein
Comedian, Writer, Actor in 'Ted Lasso'
Born
July 17th, 1980 45 years ago
A British actor, comedian, and writer, this individual gained prominence for portraying Roy Kent in the television series 'Ted Lasso'. Apart from acting, contributions include writing and producing, which further enhanced the acclaim of the show. The series, lauded for its humor and heartfelt storytelling, earned numerous awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards.
Continue ReadingAdam Lind
Baseball player, Milwaukee Brewers
Born
July 17th, 1983 42 years ago
A professional baseball player, played as a first baseman and designated hitter. Played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for teams including the Toronto Blue Jays and Milwaukee Brewers. Achieved notable success as a power hitter, known for his ability to hit home runs and drive in runs over multiple seasons.
Continue ReadingOliver Ekman-Larsson
Ice hockey defenseman and captain
Born
July 17th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, played primarily as a defenseman. Emerged as a top talent in the NHL, recognized for strong defensive skills and leadership qualities. Spent the majority of a career with the Arizona Coyotes and served as team captain. Achieved multiple accolades, including being selected for international competitions, representing Sweden in the World Championships.
Continue ReadingKali Uchis
Singer-songwriter and 'Isolation' artist
Born
July 17th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, this American singer-songwriter gained recognition for a unique blend of R&B, funk, and pop music. The debut studio album, 'Isolation', released in 2018, showcased a distinctive sound that captured attention globally. Collaborations with various artists across genres further established the artist's versatility. The single 'Telepatía' garnered widespread acclaim and contributed to international success, demonstrating the ability to connect with audiences. The artist's work combines both English and Spanish lyrics, reflecting cultural influences and personal experiences.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 20th
Miriam Schapiro
Painter and sculptor of feminist art
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2015 11 years ago — 92 years old
A Canadian-American artist contributed to the feminist art movement, utilizing techniques like fabric collage and assemblage. Schapiro co-founded the influential artist collective, the Womanhouse, which promoted women's roles in art. Utilization of domestic materials in works highlighted themes of femininity and identity. Contributions to the art world included teaching positions at institutions such as the University of California, Los Angeles, and the School of Visual Arts in New York. She engaged with various media, producing works that spanned painting, installation, and printmaking. Exhibited her works in major galleries and museums throughout her career.
Continue ReadingHeinrich IV
Prince Reuss of Köstritz
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2012 14 years ago — 93 years old
Ruled as Prince Reuss of Köstritz, leading a small principality in Germany. His tenure was marked by engagement in various cultural and political issues within the region. As a member of the princely family, he contributed to the preservation of local history and traditions. The principality eventually merged with the larger state structures after World War II, changing the landscape of German nobility. Despite social changes, maintained a prominent position in the cultural heritage of Thuringia.
Continue ReadingAngelo Niculescu
Football manager and player
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2015 11 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 ReadingClifton Fadiman
Game Show Host and Author
Born
May 15th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1999 27 years ago — 95 years old
An American game show host and author, engaged audiences with intellectual challenges and literary insights. Hosted the popular television quiz show 'Information, Please!' from 1938 to 1958, where contestants answered questions on a wide range of subjects. Wrote several books, including 'The Lifetime Reading Plan', guiding readers towards a comprehensive literary education. Established a reputation as a prominent figure in American media, and contributed to various publications, showcasing a passion for literature and knowledge.
Continue ReadingHijikata Toshizō
Japanese military commander and rebel leader
Born
May 31st, 1835 191 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1869 157 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1835, he served as the vice commander of the Shinsengumi during the late Edo period. The Shinsengumi was a special police force formed to protect the Tokugawa shogunate. He played a crucial role in various battles during the Boshin War, which was a civil war between imperial and shogunate forces. Hijikata's leadership helped shape the resistance against the Meiji Restoration, aiming to preserve the samurai way of life. He died in 1869 at the Battle of Hakodate, marking the end of the Shinsengumi.
Continue ReadingJack Kilby
Engineer, Nobel Prize-winning inventor
Born
November 8th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2005 21 years ago — 81 years old
An American physicist and engineer developed the first integrated circuit in 1958, which laid the groundwork for modern electronics. This innovation significantly advanced computing technology and contributed to the growth of the semiconductor industry. In 2000, received the Nobel Prize in Physics for his contributions to the invention of the integrated circuit. Collaborated with Texas Instruments during his career, further innovating in the fields of electronics and computing. Participated in various engineering projects and contributed to the development of handheld electronic devices.
Continue Reading