Henry Draper
Astronomer and physician, stellar spectrography

Born
March 7th, 1837
188 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1882
142 years ago — 45 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
Contributions to astronomy included pioneering work in stellar spectrography and the first photographs of celestial bodies. Developed techniques for analyzing the light from stars, which led to advancements in understanding stellar compositions. Published significant findings in various astronomical journals. Served as a prominent member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and contributed to the establishment of the American Astronomical Society.
Pioneered stellar spectrography
First photographs of celestial bodies
Other People Born on March 7th
Jeff Kent
Primarily played as a second baseman, achieved significant success in Major League Baseball. Spent the majority of his career with the San Francisco Giants, making notable contributions during the team's playoff runs. Garnered the National League Most Valuable Player award in 2000 while with the Giants. Accumulated over 2,400 hits and 377 home runs, marking a successful offensive career. Played in five All-Star Games and was a key figure in the Giants' 2002 World Series appearance.
Continue ReadingIvan Lendl
Played professional tennis from 1978 to 1994. Achieved a prominent position in men's tennis with an aggressive baseline style. Won eight Grand Slam singles titles, including three French Open titles and three US Open titles. Also secured a total of 94 ATP singles titles throughout the career. Served as coach for several notable players after retirement, contributing to their training and tournament strategies.
Continue ReadingBilly Joe DuPree
Played as a tight end in the National Football League (NFL) for the Dallas Cowboys from 1973 to 1983. Contributed to the team's victory in Super Bowl XII and became known for solid performances throughout his career. Also played for the Miami Dolphins towards the end of his NFL tenure. Recognized for being an effective receiver and blocker during his time with the Cowboys, which helped solidify the team's offensive strategy.
Continue ReadingJohn Casimir of the Palatinate-Simmern
A prince from the Palatinate region, this figure served as the reigning count palatine of Simmern. His reign was marked by his involvement in the religious conflicts of his time, most notably the Thirty Years' War. The prince was a supporter of the Protestant cause and played a role in various military and diplomatic efforts during his lifetime. He was also known for his efforts to strengthen and consolidate the power of the Palatinate.
Continue ReadingAntoine César Becquerel
A physicist and academic contributed significantly to the study of radioactivity. Conducted pioneering experiments on the electromagnetic spectrum and discovered the phenomenon of phosphorescence in uranium salts. His work laid the foundational principles for future research in radioactivity and influenced scientists such as Marie Curie. Also served in various educational and research roles, promoting scientific inquiry.
Continue ReadingG. I. Taylor
Contributions to fluid dynamics and turbulence, one of the important figures in applied mathematics. Developed key theories and models regarding the behavior of fluids. Published extensively, including notable works on boundary layer theory and its applications in aerodynamics. Served as a member of the Royal Society and was recognized for educational contributions to mathematics and physics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
David Dacko
Served as the first president of the Central African Republic from 1960 to 1966. Elevated to this position after the country gained independence from France. Implemented policies aimed at centralizing power and developed plans for economic development. Overthrown in a coup led by Jean-Bédel Bokassa in 1966. Returned to politics and briefly served as president again in 1979.
Continue ReadingKristian Djurhuus
Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands. Contributed to the political landscape during a significant period in the islands' history. Held various prominent roles in the Faroese government. Engaged in shaping the policies and governance of the autonomous region.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Borchert
An influential German author and playwright, who emerged in the post-World War II period. His most celebrated work, the play 'Draußen vor der Tür' (Outside in the Cold), addresses the existential struggles of returning soldiers. Borchert's writing reflects the trauma and disillusionment faced by individuals in a devastated Germany. His works, marked by existential themes and poignant language, sought to capture the zeitgeist of a war-torn society. Borchert's life was cut short by illness, but his literary contributions resonate in discussions of post-war literature.
Continue ReadingSir John Fowler
An English engineer and civil engineer contributed significantly to railway construction and engineering projects in the 19th century. Instrumental in the introduction of the deep-level underground railway system in London, which became a model for cities globally. Played a major role in the design and construction of the Metropolitan Railway, the world's first underground railway, which began operations in 1863. Also involved in the design works for numerous railway lines in Great Britain and contributed to the marketing of progressive engineering techniques.
Continue ReadingAnton Rubinstein
A prominent pianist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of music education in Russia. Founded the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, the first of its kind in the country, setting a standard for music training. Composed numerous works for piano, orchestras, and operas, with 'The Demon' being among the most recognized. Conducted various orchestras, including engagements with the Berlin Philharmonic and the New York Philharmonic, fostering a rich musical culture in Russia and beyond.
Continue ReadingZumbi dos Palmares
Zumbi led the resistance against slavery in Brazil during the late 17th century. He was born in a palatial settlement for escaped slaves known as Quilombo dos Palmares. As a military leader, he organized and defended the community against colonial forces. Zumbi's leadership transformed Palmares into a symbol of freedom and resistance for enslaved Africans. His reign concluded when he was betrayed and killed in 1695.
Continue Reading