Goldwin Smith

Historian and journalist in Canada

Goldwin Smith - Thinkers & Philosophers born August 13th, 1823
Born
Died

1910
116 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Canada

Links & References

Born in England, a prominent historian and journalist contributed significantly to Canadian intellectual life. In the 19th century, expressed strong views on nationalism and the nature of Canadian governance. Served as a professor of modern history at the University of Toronto, where teachings influenced many students. Actively engaged in journalism, writing articles for various publications that discussed historical and political issues. Advocated for Canadian confederation, emphasizing the importance of national identity. Authored several works on history and contemporary politics, contributing to public discourse on these subjects.

Served as a professor at the University of Toronto

Published significant essays on Canadian nationalism

Contributed articles to leading newspapers

Other People Born on August 13th

Richard Willstätter

Nobel Prize-winning chemist
Born
August 13th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1942 83 years ago — 69 years old

A chemist and academic with significant contributions to the field of organic chemistry. Willstätter's research focused on the structure and function of chlorophyll and other plant pigments. In 1915, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work in this area. Held a long-standing academic career, serving as a professor at the University of Munich. Published numerous papers that advanced the understanding of complex organic compounds, influencing future generations in the field of chemical research.

Continue Reading

Karl Liebknecht

German socialist politician and revolutionary
Born
August 13th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1919 107 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent socialist politician and revolutionary in Germany, played a significant role in the German Workers' Party and later co-founded the Spartacus League. Active in opposition to World War I, advocated for ending the conflict and promoted socialist ideals. Participated in the German Revolution of 1918-1919, which sought to establish a socialist state. Authored several works on socialism and workers' rights, influencing the labor movement in Germany and beyond. Captured and assassinated in January 1919 during the political turmoil of the revolutionary period.

Continue Reading

William Bernbach

American advertising executive, DDB co-founder
Born
August 13th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1982 44 years ago — 71 years old

An influential advertising executive, co-founded DDB Worldwide in 1949, which revolutionized the advertising industry with its innovative, creativity-driven campaigns. Played a crucial role in elevating the role of art direction and copywriting in advertising. The campaign for Volkswagen's Beetle was a significant milestone, showcasing the power of simplicity and wit in marketing. Advocated for the integration of creativity and strategy in advertising, influencing future generations of advertisers.

Continue Reading

John Logie Baird

Inventor of television technology
Born
August 13th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1946 79 years ago — 57 years old

Scottish-English physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the development of television technology. In 1926, demonstrated the first working television system, showcasing the transmission of live images. Developed the first publicly demonstrated television system which featured both monochrome and color broadcasts. Conducted experiments that laid the groundwork for the future of both television and video.

Continue Reading

Valerie Plame

CIA agent and author of 'Fair Game'
Born
August 13th, 1963 62 years ago

A former operations officer for the CIA, this individual specialized in weapons of mass destruction. In 2003, exposure as a covert agent occurred after a newspaper column by Robert Novak revealed their identity. This controversy led to the outing of a CIA operative and prompted investigations into the subsequent leak. Authored the memoir 'Fair Game: My Life as a Spy, My Betrayal by the White House' detailing experiences in the agency and the fallout from the leak. This work discusses the implications of secrecy and national security in the context of personal and professional life.

Continue Reading

Giovanni Agnelli

Italian businessman and Fiat founder
Born
August 13th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1945 80 years ago — 79 years old

Established Fiat in 1899, transforming it into one of the largest automobile manufacturers in Italy. Oversaw the company's significant growth during the early 20th century, expanding its production capabilities and introducing various vehicle models. Played a crucial role in the Italian automotive industry's development, particularly during the post-World War I economic expansion. Actively engaged in the Italian business community and contributed to industrial advancements.

Continue Reading