Hippolyte Fizeau
French physicist and academic
Contributed significantly to the field of physics in the 19th century. Developed innovative methods for measuring the speed of light and proposed the Fizeau formula for calculating the speed of light in a medium. Conducted experiments that solidified the wave theory of light. Fizeau also served as a professor of physics and played a major role in the advancement of scientific education in France.
Measured the speed of light using rotating mirrors
Performed experiments demonstrating wave theory of light
Other People Born on September 23rd
Les Haylen
Journalist and Australian politician
Born
September 23rd, 1898 127 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1977 48 years ago — 78 years old
Started a career in journalism before entering politics. Served as a member of the Australian House of Representatives representing the Division of Parkes from 1943 to 1949. Worked with various media outlets and contributed to political discourse through writing and public speaking. Engaged in significant political reforms and advocacy during tenure.
Continue ReadingEmperor Kōkaku of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Edo period
Born
September 23rd, 1771 254 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1840 185 years ago — 69 years old
Reigned from 1779 to 1817, emphasized cultural development and administration reform. Guided the nation through a period characterized by stability and relative peace, known as the Edo period. Oversaw significant changes in Japanese society, including art, literature, and the economy. Advocated for the growth of traditional Japanese arts and encouraged interaction with Western cultures, leading to gradual modernization. After abdication, continued to influence the imperial court.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Paulus
German general, commander at Stalingrad
Born
September 23rd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1957 69 years ago — 66 years old
A German general during World War II, served in the Wehrmacht. Commanded the 6th Army during the Battle of Stalingrad, one of the conflict's turning points. Led troops during significant campaigns in North Africa, participating in operations aimed at securing oil supplies. Captured by Soviet forces in February 1943 at Stalingrad, Paulus became a prisoner of war until the end of the war.
Continue ReadingEmpress Go-Sakuramachi of Japan
Japanese Empress during Edo period
Born
September 23rd, 1740 285 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1813 212 years ago — 73 years old
Reigned as Empress of Japan from 1762 until abdication in 1771. Oversaw a period characterized by political stability and cultural growth. Had significant influence over court politics and ceremonial practices. After abdication, lived in retirement as a retired empress and actively involved in court affairs.
Continue ReadingMohamed Hassanein Heikal
Egyptian journalist and author
Born
September 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent journalist and author, contributed extensively to the understanding of Arab politics through analytical writings. Served as the editor of Al-Ahram, one of the leading newspapers in Egypt, for several decades. Authored multiple influential books that explored Egyptian and Arab history, politics, and society. His insights into the events of the 1952 Egyptian Revolution and his relationships with key figures such as Gamal Abdel Nasser shaped public discourse in the region.
Continue ReadingKublai Khan
Mongol emperor and conqueror
Born
September 23rd, 1215 810 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1294 731 years ago — 78 years old
Founded the Yuan dynasty in China, ruling from 1271 to 1294. Expanded the Mongol Empire to include significant parts of East Asia. Established Beijing as the capital and promoted trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. Implemented administrative reforms and supported the arts and sciences.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 18th
Therese Neumann
German mystic and stigmatist
Born
1898 128 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1962 63 years ago — 64 years old
A German mystic recognized for experiencing stigmata, Neumann reportedly underwent various spiritual and mystical phenomena. Living in the town of Konnersreuth, she became known for her intense spiritual experiences, which included visions related to Christ's passion, leading to her being viewed as a spiritual figure by many. Reports indicated that she lived without consuming solid food for several years, subsisting solely on the Eucharist, which garnered significant attention and controversy. Her life was marked by numerous healings attributed to her intercession, reinforcing her status among devotees.
Continue ReadingJoseph Locke
Engineer and politician, designed railways
Born
August 9th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1860 165 years ago — 55 years old
An influential engineer and politician, contributed significantly to the development of railway systems in the United Kingdom during the 19th century. Played a key role in the building of the Grand Junction Railway, which connected Birmingham and Liverpool, facilitating the first intercity rail travel in Britain. Worked on the construction of the London and North Western Railway and served as a Member of Parliament. Advocated for engineering advancements and public infrastructure improvements.
Continue ReadingAmanat Ali Khan
Pakistani classical singer and performer
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1974 51 years ago — 52 years old
Renowned as a classical singer, an influential figure in the music tradition of South Asia. Contributed significantly to the genre of ghazal and khayal, showcasing a rich vocal style and intricate melodic variations. Trained in the art of music from a young age, the singer became established in the mid-20th century. Performed extensively on radio and television, captivating audiences with a unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Garnered appreciation and accolades for performances that left a lasting legacy in classical music.
Continue ReadingMarcel Reich-Ranicki
Literary critic and author of 'My Last Read'
Born
June 2nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent literary critic and author, contributed significantly to the analysis of German literature. Worked as a critic for major publications, influencing literary discourse in Germany. Authored several books, with 'My Last Read' reflecting on personal readings and literary figures. Renowned for television appearances that made literature accessible to the general public. Received various accolades for contributions to literature and criticism.
Continue ReadingJack Kralick
Baseball player, Minnesota Twins pitcher
Born
June 1st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2012 13 years ago — 77 years old
This individual was a professional baseball player who pitched in Major League Baseball. His career spanned from 1958 to 1966, primarily with the Minnesota Twins. Notable for his exceptional left-handed pitching skills, he contributed significantly to the team's success during his tenure. After his playing career, this individual transitioned to coaching, sharing insights into pitching and training with future generations.
Continue ReadingBob Hayes
Sprinter and NFL football player
Born
December 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2002 23 years ago — 59 years old
Achieved Olympic success in sprinting and professional accolades in American football. Won a gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and played for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Contributed to the Cowboys' victory in Super Bowl VI and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. Also excelled in college football at Florida A&M University.
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