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
Petteri Lindbohm
Finnish ice hockey player; Stanley Cup champion
Born
September 23rd, 1993 32 years ago
Played ice hockey as a defenseman in the NHL, contributing to multiple teams. Drafted in 2012 and began professional career with the St. Louis Blues. Played for teams including the Chicago Wolves and the HPK in Liiga. Achieved a notable milestone by winning the Stanley Cup with the St. Louis Blues in 2019.
Continue ReadingLee Mi-joo
South Korean singer and entertainer
Born
September 23rd, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, this individual began a career in entertainment as a member of the girl group Lovelyz, which debuted in 2014 under Woollim Entertainment. The group gained popularity with hits such as 'Ah-Choo' and 'Destiny.' After the disbandment of the group in 2021, this entertainer transitioned into solo activities, showcasing talents in singing and variety shows. Recognition came through engaging performances and appearances, adapting well from music to television. Participation in various variety shows further solidified public connection and appeal.
Continue ReadingBai Lu
Chinese Actress in 'My True Friend'
Born
September 23rd, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, this actress gained prominence in Chinese television and film. Significant roles include appearances in 'My True Friend' and 'The Legend of White Snake'. The actress has worked on various popular dramas, showcasing talent across different genres. Her performances have contributed to the rise of contemporary Chinese television.
Continue ReadingMelanie Oudin
Tennis player with US Open success
Born
September 23rd, 1991 34 years ago
Achieved prominence in professional tennis during the 2009 US Open, where reached the quarterfinals as a teenager. Established a reputation for strong performances on the WTA tour. Competed for the United States in the Fed Cup, contributing to the team's efforts in international competitions. Continued to participate in various tournaments, consistently showcasing skills and sportsmanship throughout a competitive career.
Continue ReadingJuan Martín del Potro
Tennis player with US Open title
Born
September 23rd, 1988 37 years ago
Argentinian tennis player stood out in the sport with a powerful game and exceptional performance on the ATP Tour. Achieved significant success during career, with a breakthrough victory at the 2009 US Open, defeating Roger Federer in the final. Secured a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, representing Argentina. Overcame multiple injuries throughout career, demonstrating resilience and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingCush Jumbo
British actress in 'The Good Fight'
Born
September 23rd, 1985 40 years ago
An actress gained recognition for work in both television and theater. Achieved prominence through a lead role in the legal drama series 'The Good Fight'. Also starred in 'The Good Wife', a popular television series. In theater, received acclaim for performances in plays such as 'The Merchant of Venice' and 'Hamlet'. Her versatility showcased across various mediums.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 18th
Benjamin Kennicott
Theologian and biblical scholar
Born
April 4th, 1718 308 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1783 242 years ago — 65 years old
Born in England in 1718, a prominent theologian and biblical scholar dedicated to textual criticism. The meticulous examination of manuscripts and key biblical texts led to significant contributions in the field of theology. Served as a fellow at Exeter College, Oxford, where scholarly pursuits flourished. Engaged deeply with Hebrew studies and published critical works that highlighted textual variants in the Old Testament, establishing a foundation for future scholars in theology. His efforts in the development of biblical scholarship paved the way for greater understanding of biblical texts among academics and theologians.
Continue ReadingDag Hammarskjöld
Diplomat, UN Secretary-General, Nobel laureate
Born
July 29th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1961 64 years ago — 56 years old
An economist and diplomat served as the second Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1953 until 1961. Under leadership, the UN expanded peacekeeping operations and addressed significant global conflicts. Instrumental in resolving disputes in the Middle East and Africa. Died in a plane crash while on a peace mission in 1961. Posthumously awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1961 for efforts in promoting international peace and cooperation.
Continue ReadingEduardo Bonvallet
Chilean footballer and manager
Born
1955 71 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 60 years old
Played as a midfielder for clubs such as Universidad de Chile and Santiago Wanderers. Transitioned to management after retirement, leading teams in the Chilean league. Contributed to football commentary and analysis in media, sharing insights on the sport and player performances. Had a significant influence on coaching methodologies in Chilean football, focusing on player development.
Continue ReadingStanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz
Polish author and painter
Born
February 24th, 1885 141 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1939 86 years ago — 54 years old
An author, poet, and painter, contributed significantly to the development of Polish theatre and literature in the early 20th century. Established a unique style characterized by the integration of visual arts and dramatic literature. Developed a psychological and philosophical system, particularly through his plays which explored themes of existentialism and identity. Active in the avant-garde movement, Witkiewicz's work often challenged societal norms and traditional artistic expressions. His artistic contributions are marked by a deep engagement with complex human emotions and the absurdities of life.
Continue ReadingRuth Bader Ginsburg
U.S. Supreme Court Justice
Born
March 15th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2020 5 years ago — 87 years old
Graduated from Columbia Law School and began a legal career focused on gender equality. Co-founded the Women’s Rights Project at the ACLU, arguing several groundbreaking cases that advanced women’s rights. Appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1993, serving as a strong advocate for civil liberties and gender equality. Continued to influence legal discussions until her passing in 2020.
Continue ReadingMelchior Klesl
Austrian cardinal and statesman
Born
February 19th, 1552 474 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1630 395 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1552, served as a prominent cardinal within the Catholic Church and played a significant role in Austro-Hungarian politics during the early 17th century. Klesl was instrumental in the organization of the religious practices in his region and contributed to the Counter-Reformation efforts. He held several key positions, including Archbishop of Vienna, and took part in the negotiations of the Peace of Augsburg.
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