Giovanni Battista Riccioli

Astronomer, wrote Almagestum Novum

Giovanni Battista Riccioli - Scientists & Innovators born April 17th, 1598
Born
Died
Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Italy

Links & References

An Italian priest and astronomer significantly contributed to the field of astronomy through the publication of Almagestum Novum in 1651. This work included extensive observations of celestial bodies, the formulation of new astronomical models, and the introduction of a system to classify stars. Riccioli's keen observations, particularly regarding the moon's surface, led to the first systematic study of lunar features. Additionally, he was instrumental in establishing the names of numerous lunar features that are still in use today.

Published Almagestum Novum

Developed a lunar nomenclature system

Other People Born on April 17th

John McCririck

English journalist and horse racing pundit
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in horse racing journalism, McCririck contributed to various publications and television programs. Worked extensively with ITV and Channel 4, providing insights and analysis for racing enthusiasts. Known for distinctive style characterized by his hats and flamboyant personality. Participated in several reality TV shows, including 'Celebrity Big Brother'. Also wrote columns for various newspapers, sharing perspectives on the racing industry and betting.

Continue Reading

Nick Hornby

English novelist and screenwriter
Born
April 17th, 1957 68 years ago

Born in 1957, this English novelist, essayist, lyricist, and screenwriter gained recognition for works exploring themes of music, relationships, and adolescent experiences. The debut novel, "Fever Pitch," detailed a passionate obsession with football, blending autobiography and sports commentary. Subsequent novels, including "High Fidelity" and "About a Boy," garnered critical acclaim and were adapted into successful films, further establishing a career in screenwriting. Contributions to music journalism and various essays displayed an ongoing engagement with popular culture. The collaboration with musician Ben Folds resulted in a musical adaptation of "High Fidelity."

Continue Reading

Harry Reasoner

American journalist and television anchor
Born
April 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent journalist, contributed significantly to American television news. Anchored CBS Evening News alongside Dan Rather and was a founding anchor of ABC's 20/20. Gained recognition for in-depth reporting and investigative journalism. Played an instrumental role in covering major events, including the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. Worked at various major news outlets, leaving a substantial legacy in broadcast journalism.

Continue Reading

Clare Francis

Sailor and author of 'Sailor' series
Born
April 17th, 1946 79 years ago

An English sailor and author, played a significant role in competitive sailing during the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in the prestigious Whitbread Round the World Race multiple times, becoming the first woman to complete the race in 1977-78. Authored several books, including both fiction and non-fiction, focusing on sailing and adventure. Worked as a motivational speaker and contributed to various sailing publications. Resided predominantly in the United Kingdom.

Continue Reading

Ian Jones

Rugby player, All Blacks lock
Born
April 17th, 1967 58 years ago

Played professional rugby in New Zealand, primarily as a lock. Represented the All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby union team, from 1992 to 1998. Contributed to the team's success during a notable period in rugby history, including participation in multiple international test matches and tournaments. After retiring from rugby, continued to engage with the sport through various roles in coaching and commentary.

Continue Reading

Jason White

Scottish rugby player and captain
Born
April 17th, 1978 47 years ago

A rugby union player had a prominent career representing Scotland. Played predominantly in the back row and served as captain of the national team. Participated in multiple Rugby World Cups, including the 2003 and 2007 tournaments. Spent a significant portion of his club career with Sale Sharks in England, contributing to their success in domestic and European competitions. Noted for strong defensive skills and leadership on the field.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 25th

Tony Hancock

English actor and comedian in 'Hancock's Half Hour'
Born
May 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1968 57 years ago — 44 years old

An English actor, producer, and screenwriter achieved prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Produced and starred in the radio and television series 'Hancock's Half Hour', which became a template for future British sitcoms. His work often showcased a blend of comedy and pathos, reflecting the struggles of ordinary life. Contributed to the development of British comedy through unique character portrayals and witty scripts. Also appeared in several films, including 'The Rebel' and 'The Family Way'.

Continue Reading

George Burditt

Screenwriter and producer of sitcoms
Born
July 29th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 25th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old

A screenwriter and producer, major contributions included work on television sitcoms throughout the late 20th century. Created and wrote for the television series 'Three's Company', which gained significant popularity during its run. Contributed to the writing of 'The Golden Girls', another influential sitcom. Engaged in producing and writing for various other successful television shows, shaping comedic narratives of the era.

Continue Reading

Charles Starkweather

American spree killer
Born
November 24th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1959 66 years ago — 20 years old

Commenced a series of murders in 1958, leading to nationwide attention. Engaged in a killing spree across Nebraska and Wyoming, resulting in the deaths of 11 people. Captured by law enforcement, Starkweather was sentenced to death and executed in the electric chair in 1959. The case raised discussions regarding youth violence and societal influences, becoming a significant part of American criminal history.

Continue Reading

Alexander von Nordmann

Finnish biologist and paleontologist
Born
May 24th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1866 159 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent figure in the fields of biology and paleontology, contributed significantly to the understanding of geological formations in Finland. Conducted extensive research on fossilized remains and their implications for evolutionary biology. Published numerous papers detailing findings in paleobotany, particularly regarding the flora of prehistoric eras. Engaged in the study of natural history, contributing to the establishment of relevant scientific methodologies.

Continue Reading

Ronald Gene Simmons

American sergeant and convicted murderer
Born
July 15th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1990 35 years ago — 49 years old

Served in the United States Air Force and attained the rank of sergeant. Committed a series of murders in the early 1980s, resulting in the deaths of 16 individuals, primarily family members. Arrested in 1987, he was convicted of multiple counts of murder. The case received significant media attention due to the nature of the crimes and their impact on the community.

Continue Reading

Thomas Eakins

Painter and photographer, The Gross Clinic
Born
July 25th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1916 109 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in American art, this individual focused on realism and the human form. Education in art took place in France, where techniques and styles were refined. Returned to the United States to join the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts as an instructor and eventually became its director. Notable works include 'The Gross Clinic', which depicted a surgical operation and challenged the boundaries of medical representation in art. Also contributed to photography, employing it as a tool for studying and articulating form and movement.

Continue Reading