Godfrey Stafford
Physicist and academic in South Africa

Born
April 15th, 1920
105 years ago
Died
2013
12 years ago — 93 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
South Africa
Links & References
Born in England, a career spanned multiple institutions in South Africa, focusing on physics and education. Contributed to the understanding of particle physics and worked extensively in academic spaces. Engaged in initiatives to promote physics education in the country, influencing the academic landscape. Published numerous papers on topics related to particle physics and played a role in mentoring future physicists. Served as a professor at several universities, shaping the curriculum and fostering a robust learning environment.
Contributed to particle physics research
Promoted physics education in South Africa
Published extensively in scientific journals
Other People Born on April 15th
Nikolay Gumilyov
Born in 1886, this poet played a crucial role in the Acmeist movement, which emphasized clarity of language and imagery in poetry. His early works exhibited a strong fascination with nature and the human experience. A significant part of his literary output includes the collection 'The Wavelengths', which showcases his lyrical style. He was a contemporary of other literary figures and had a profound influence on Russian literature during the early 20th century. In addition to his poetry, he wrote critiques that addressed the philosophy and purpose of literature. His life came to an early end in 1921 due to political circumstances.
Continue ReadingRaymond Poulidor
Achieved significant success in professional cycling, particularly in the Tour de France. Competed in the Tour de France 14 times between 1962 and 1976, finishing on the podium multiple times. Recognized for his consistency and determination, he became a fan favorite despite never winning the overall title. Participated in the Paris-Roubaix race and secured victories in various one-day races throughout his career. Continued to be involved in cycling after retirement, contributing to the sport.
Continue ReadingKim Il Sung
Served as the leader of North Korea from its establishment in 1948 until death in 1994. As the founding leader, played a key role in shaping the country's political system based on Juche ideology. Established the Korean Workers' Party as a dominant political force and led North Korea through the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. Oversaw extensive industrialization and military development during the Cold War. Implemented policies that resulted in both economic growth and hardship, particularly during the 1990s famine.
Continue ReadingPercy Shaw
An English businessman developed a reflective road safety device that improved visibility for drivers at night. The device, called the cat's eye, consisted of a pair of reflective lenses mounted in a rubber housing. This invention increased road safety and gained widespread adoption in the UK and beyond. Originally patented in the 1930s, the cat's eye significantly reduced accidents by enhancing lane visibility during low-light conditions. Shaw's company continued to produce cat's eyes for decades.
Continue ReadingKenneth Lay
Born in 1942, a prominent American businessman served as the CEO and chairman of Enron Corporation, an energy company based in Houston, Texas. Lay played a crucial role in the company's rapid growth in the 1990s, promoting innovative energy trading and deregulation. Under his leadership, Enron's stock skyrocketed, making it one of the largest companies in the United States. However, amid accounting scandals, Enron filed for bankruptcy in 2001, marking one of the largest bankruptcies in U.S. history. Lay faced criminal charges related to securities fraud and conspiracy, though he died before the trial concluded.
Continue ReadingFrancis X. DiLorenzo
Served as the Roman Catholic bishop of Richmond, Virginia, from 2004 until 2017. Prior to this appointment, held various positions in the Diocese of Buffalo, including auxiliary bishop. Contributed to numerous initiatives in education and social justice within the church. Oversaw the management of parishes and schools, focusing on community outreach and religious education.
Continue Reading