James Ferguson

Scottish astronomer and author of books

James Ferguson - Scottish astronomer and author of books
Born

April 25th, 1710
314 years ago

Died

November 17th, 1776
248 years ago — 66 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Scotland

Links & References

Birth occurred in 1710 in Scotland. Ferguson specialized in astronomy and wrote several influential books on the subject. His notable works include 'Astronomy Explained Upon Sir Isaac Newton's Principles' and 'The Use of the Globes', which provided valuable insights into celestial mechanics and navigation. Ferguson also contributed to the popularization of astronomical concepts through lectures and demonstrations. He was an early advocate for the use of instruments in observational astronomy, and his writings helped educate the public about astronomical phenomena.

Authored 'Astronomy Explained Upon Sir Isaac Newton's Principles'

Produced 'The Use of the Globes'

Influenced public understanding of astronomy

Other People Born on April 25th

Róisín Shortall

Irish politician and educator
Born
April 25th, 1954 70 years ago

This individual served as a member of the Dáil Éireann, representing the Dublin North constituency. An educator by profession, significant contributions included work in the sphere of health policy and social issues. Co-founded the Social Democrats party in Ireland, focusing on progressive policies. Held positions in various committees, including the Committee on Health and Children. Actively engaged in debates addressing community needs and social welfare reform throughout the political career.

Continue Reading

Andy Bell

English singer-songwriter with Erasure
Born
April 25th, 1964 60 years ago

A prominent figure in music, this singer-songwriter co-founded the synth-pop duo Erasure in the mid-1980s. The band gained widespread acclaim for their catchy melodies and distinctive sound, becoming a significant part of the UK music scene. They released several successful albums, including 'Wonderland' and 'Chorus,' and produced numerous hit singles such as 'A Little Respect' and 'Chains of Love.' In addition to work with Erasure, this artist also pursued a solo career, contributing to various musical projects and collaborations. The influence on electronic music remains evident, with a dedicated fanbase that spans multiple generations. Achievements include numerous chart-topping hits and several UK music awards.

Continue Reading

Claudia Rath

German heptathlete and Olympian
Born
April 25th, 1986 38 years ago

Competed in the heptathlon, representing Germany in multiple international competitions. Participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, achieving a personal best performance. Competed in the European Athletics Championships with notable results, establishing a reputation in the realm of athletics.

Continue Reading

Darren Holmes

American baseball player and coach
Born
April 25th, 1966 58 years ago

Played as a Major League Baseball pitcher from 1993 to 2001. Represented teams including the Atlanta Braves, Colorado Rockies, and the Chicago White Sox. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to player development and team strategy. Participated in multiple seasons, including playoff runs with the Rockies.

Continue Reading

Eric Avery

American bass player and songwriter
Born
April 25th, 1965 59 years ago

Bass player and songwriter contributed to the alternative rock band Jane's Addiction, which formed in 1985. The band's debut album, "Nothing's Shocking," released in 1988, gained significant attention. Avery's playing style defined the band's sound and influenced the genre. He also participated in various musical projects, including the formation of several other bands and collaborations with artists like Alanis Morissette.

Continue Reading

Peter Schulz

German lawyer and Mayor of Hamburg
Born
April 25th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 83 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the Mayor of Hamburg during the early 1980s. Engaged in local governance, focused on urban issues and public administration. Advocated for policies aimed at improving the quality of life in Hamburg. Contributed to the development of the city's infrastructure and community programs.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 17th

Robert Hofstadter

American physicist and Nobel laureate
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1990 34 years ago — 75 years old

A physicist conducted pioneering research in the structure of nucleons through electron scattering experiments. Contributed significantly to the field of quantum electrodynamics and understanding of strong interactions. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1961 for his work in measuring the charge distribution within the proton and neutron, which advanced knowledge in particle physics. Held academic positions at Stanford University, influencing the next generation of physicists.

Continue Reading

Pete Newell

Basketball coach and player with NCAA title
Born
August 31st, 1915 109 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2008 16 years ago — 93 years old

This individual played college basketball at the University of California, Berkeley, where a successful career included being a key player on the team that won the 1939 NCAA championship. Transitioning to coaching, this individual led the University of California, Santa Barbara to great success and became the head coach of the University of California, Berkeley. While coaching, this individual emphasized fundamentals and developed many players who later achieved professional success in the NBA. This individual also served as a coach for the U.S. men's national basketball team, guiding the team to success in international competitions.

Continue Reading

Auguste Rodin

Sculptor known for The Thinker
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1917 107 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent French sculptor and illustrator, this artist primarily focused on the human form and emotion. Sculpture techniques were innovated through works that emphasized naturalism and expressive detail. The Thinker, created in 1880, emerged as one of the most recognized sculptures in the art world. Other significant works include The Kiss and The Gates of Hell, which showcases intricate figures and dramatic expressions. The artist's unique approach transformed modern sculpture and influenced generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Antoine of Navarre

French noble and King of Navarre
Born
April 22nd, 1518 506 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1562 462 years ago — 44 years old

Served as the King of Navarre and a prominent figure in the French Wars of Religion. Participated in the Battle of Pavia in 1525, where he was captured. Married Jeanne d'Albret, which strengthened the Protestant cause in France. Contributed to the expansion of Protestantism in the region and held significant influence until his death.

Continue Reading

Zeke Bella

American baseball player, 1948 All-Star
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 83 years old

An American baseball player played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1946 and played for the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Giants. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1948, showcasing remarkable talent during his career before retiring in 1953. After retirement, remained involved in baseball through various mentoring roles.

Continue Reading

Syd Field

Screenwriter and producer, 'Screenplay'
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2013 11 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of screenwriting, particularly through the development of the three-act structure. Authored several influential books on screenplay writing, including 'Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting', which became a standard reference for aspiring writers. Taught screenwriting in various universities and workshops, helping shape the careers of many writers in the industry. Worked as a consultant and mentor for numerous movie projects, establishing a reputation as a leading expert in storytelling and screenplay structure.

Continue Reading