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

Bronisław Geremek

Polish historian and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
March 6th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2008 17 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1932, studied history at the University of Warsaw. Contributed to Solidarity, the Polish trade union movement, in the 1980s. Served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1997 to 2000, advocating for Poland's integration into the European Union and NATO. Played a key role in the transition of Poland from communism to democracy. Participated in numerous international conferences, emphasizing human rights and democratic values.

Continue Reading

Mary E. Byrd

American astronomer and educator
Born
November 15th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1934 91 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through a focus on educational initiatives and scientific research. Played a vital role in promoting astronomy as a discipline among women and within educational institutions. Advanced the study of celestial bodies and engaged students in the excitement of scientific discovery, fostering interest in astronomy. Established programs and curricula that integrated astronomical concepts into school education.

Continue Reading

Red Buttons

American actor and comedian
Born
February 5th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2006 19 years ago — 87 years old

Began a career in entertainment as a stand-up comedian before transitioning to television and film. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'Sayonara'. Gained popularity through appearances on television shows including 'The Red Buttons Show', which aired from 1952 to 1955. Also appeared in popular movies such as 'The Longest Day' and 'Harlow'.

Continue Reading

August Kekulé

Chemist known for structural chemistry
Born
September 7th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1896 129 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

Henrik Sillem

Dutch target shooter and mountaineer
Born
August 12th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1907 118 years ago — 40 years old

Born in the Netherlands, a target shooter participated in international competitions and achieved recognition in the sport. Also pursued a career in mountaineering, achieving notable ascents and contributing to the climbing community. Additionally worked as a jurist, applying legal expertise in various capacities.

Continue Reading

Joy Davidman

American poet and author of 'Letters to C.S. Lewis'
Born
April 18th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1960 65 years ago — 45 years old

Born in Poland, later moved to the United States, and gained recognition as a poet and author. Davidman became associated with noted writer C.S. Lewis. Her literary contributions included poetry, essays, and novels, with a notable correspondence and eventual marriage to Lewis, which was both personal and professional. Works often reflected themes of faith, love, and morality, showcasing a distinctive voice in theological discussions. In addition to her poetry, she wrote the novel 'Weeping Bay' and various essays, which contributed to her literary legacy, ended shortly before her death in 1960.

Continue Reading