Hermann von Helmholtz
Physician and physicist, trained in optics
Born
August 31st, 1821
203 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1894
130 years ago — 73 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Germany
Links & References
A prominent figure in the fields of physiology and physics, significant contributions included the formulation of the principle of conservation of energy and exploration of sensory perception. Worked on the nature of vision and sound, laying foundational theories for modern physics. Authored influential texts that bridged the gap between physics and biology. Engaged in extensive research on the laws of thermodynamics, integrating concepts of energy into biological understanding. Established himself as a leading scientist in the 19th century.
Formulated the principle of conservation of energy
Contributed to the understanding of vision and sound
Published 'Handbuch der physiologischen Optik'
Other People Born on August 31st
Augustus F. Hawkins
A prominent lawyer and politician, played a critical role in California's political landscape. Served as a U.S. Representative for over three decades, representing the 29th District. Instrumental in education reform and civil rights legislation. Contributed to the establishment of programs that support public assistance.
Continue ReadingLarry Hankin
An accomplished actor, director, and producer, one notable role includes the character Mr. Heckles in the television series Friends. In addition to television, contributions to film include roles in movies such as Escape from Alcatraz and the classic comedy The Wedding Singer. His work extends to directing, notably with the comedy short film The Cat's Meow, which received attention in film festivals. Active in the entertainment industry for decades, featured in various television shows and films, contributing to the performing arts.
Continue ReadingLyuboslav Penev
A professional footballer and manager primarily associated with the Bulgarian national team and clubs such as CSKA Sofia and Valencia. During his playing career, achieved notable success as a forward, participating in major tournaments including UEFA Euro 1996. Transitioned to management and served several clubs, contributing to the development of football in Bulgaria and abroad.
Continue ReadingSanford Meisner
An American actor and acting coach, played a pivotal role in the development of the Meisner Technique, a widely influential method of acting that emphasizes emotional authenticity and improvisation. Founded the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City, which became a renowned institution for training actors. Taught numerous successful actors and left a legacy that continues to shape acting education.
Continue ReadingAlma Mahler
Austrian-American composer and author contributed to the cultural landscape of early 20th-century Europe and America. Composed several orchestral and chamber works, including 'Four Songs' and 'The Year 1900'. Wrote an influential memoir and corresponded with many notable contemporary artists and musicians, providing insights into the artistic milieu of the time. Spent significant time in Vienna, engaging with prominent composers like Gustav Mahler, whom she married. Later emigrated to the United States, continuing to compose and write.
Continue ReadingMaria Montessori
Contributed extensively to education with a focus on child development. Developed the Montessori method, emphasizing self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play. Established the first Casa dei Bambini in Rome in 1907, which served as a prototype for Montessori schools worldwide. Promoted the importance of a prepared environment and individualized learning for children. Published numerous works discussing educational theory and practice, influencing teaching methods across the globe.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 8th
Aage Bohr
Born in 1922, a prominent physicist contributed to the understanding of nuclear structure and reactions. Played a significant role in developing the collective model of nuclear structure. Served as a professor at the University of Copenhagen and directed the Niels Bohr Institute. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1975 for advancements in theoretical nuclear physics.
Continue ReadingCharles III of Navarre
Ruled as King of Navarre from 1387 until death in 1425. His reign was marked by conflict with Castile and France. Engaged in various alliances and wars, he aimed to protect the interests of Navarre. Participated in the Hundred Years' War on the side of the English. Held claims to the crown of France, asserting rights during the turbulent period of rivalries among the French nobility. His rule also included significant engagement in the politics of the region, navigating between larger powers.
Continue ReadingBrad Davis
Played as a point guard in professional basketball, primarily for the Dallas Mavericks from 1980 to 1992. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching and sportscasting. Contributed to the development of young athletes and offered insights on basketball through various media channels.
Continue ReadingJean Véronis
A French linguist and computer scientist contributed significantly to the fields of linguistics and computational linguistics. Specialized in natural language processing, played a key role in applying computer science to linguistic data analysis. Created several language resources and tools that facilitated the analysis of various languages and text corpora. Authored blog posts discussing technical advancements and theories in linguistics and technology. Engaged in numerous academic and research projects.
Continue ReadingMauricio Arriaza Chicas
Served as a police officer in El Salvador, contributing to public safety and law enforcement. Throughout a career marked by dedication, focused on maintaining order and fighting crime in challenging circumstances. Recognized for efforts in community policing and initiatives aimed at improving relations between the police force and the local population.
Continue ReadingPercy Spencer
An American physicist and inventor developed the microwave oven. Spencer worked with radar technology during World War II and while experimenting with microwave radiation, discovered its heating properties. This led to the invention of the microwave oven in 1945, which revolutionized food preparation methods. Spencer founded a company that manufactured these ovens for commercial use. His work in engineering and physics contributed significantly to advancements in cooking technology.
Continue Reading