James Bradley

English priest and astronomer with stellar parallax discovery

James Bradley - Scientists & Innovators born 1693
Born

1693
333 years ago

Died
Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

England

Links & References

An English priest and astronomer contributed significantly to the field of astronomy during the 18th century. Focused on the study of celestial objects, conducted research on the phenomenon of stellar parallax, providing evidence for the Earth's motion around the Sun. Served as the Savilian Professor of Astronomy at the University of Oxford. Published works included detailed observations of star positions and planetary movements, which enhanced the understanding of the night sky. His investigations into the aberration of light demonstrated a critical advance in astronomical techniques.

Discovered stellar parallax

Investigated the aberration of light

Served as Savilian Professor of Astronomy

Other People Who Died on July 13th

John Wallop

Soldier and diplomat in England
Born
1490 536 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1551 475 years ago — 61 years old

Served as an English soldier and diplomat during the 16th century. Participated in military campaigns and was involved in diplomatic relations between England and foreign powers. Held several important posts throughout his career, including service under notable figures in the government. Engaged in activities that shaped the political landscape of his time, contributing to military operations and negotiations.

Continue Reading

Compay Segundo

Cuban singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 18th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2003 23 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in Cuban music, a musician contributed significantly to the genre of son cubano. He gained international recognition as a member of the Buena Vista Social Club. His guitar playing and unique singing style showcased traditional Cuban music to a global audience. Through a prolific career spanning several decades, music drew from Afro-Cuban rhythms, creating sounds celebrating the cultural heritage of Cuba.

Continue Reading

John C. Frémont

American explorer and politician
Born
January 21st, 1813 213 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1890 136 years ago — 77 years old

An American general, explorer, and politician, played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States in the mid-19th century. Served as the 5th Territorial Governor of Arizona. Led several expeditions into the American West, contributing to the mapping and understanding of the region. Participated in the Mexican-American War, where military leadership included various notable engagements. Also involved in the political arena as a member of the Republican Party and the first presidential candidate of the party in 1856, promoting the abolition of slavery.

Continue Reading

August Kekulé

Chemist known for structural chemistry
Born
September 7th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1896 130 years ago — 66 years old

A German chemist and academic established contributions to structural chemistry. Introduced the idea of chemical structure and proposed that carbon atoms could bond in a chain, which explained the molecular structure of various organic compounds. Formulated the concept of isomerism, which describes compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements. Developed the structural formula of benzene and suggested its cyclic structure, which has fundamental importance in organic chemistry and the development of aromatic compounds. His work laid groundwork for future developments in organic synthesis and chemical bonding theories.

Continue Reading

Seretse Khama

Botswana's 1st President and lawyer
Born
July 1st, 1921 105 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1980 46 years ago — 59 years old

Served as the first President of Botswana from 1966 until 1980. Played a crucial role in the country's transition to independence from British rule. Educated in law at the University of Oxford, contributed to the legal and political foundation of Botswana. His presidency focused on national unity, economic development, and democratic governance.

Continue Reading

Lorin Maazel

Conductor of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Born
March 6th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2014 12 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent conductor, violinist, and composer. Conducted major orchestras including the Vienna Philharmonic and the New York Philharmonic. Founded the Castleton Festival in Virginia, promoting young musicians. Composed various works, including operas and orchestral pieces, reflecting a commitment to musical education and performance excellence.

Continue Reading