James McKeen Cattell
Psychologist and academic leader
Born
Died
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
United States
Links & References
Pioneered the field of psychology as an academic discipline and emphasized the importance of empirical research. Developed the first psychological laboratory in the United States at Columbia University. Contributed to the establishment of psychology as a science through his work on mental testing and measurement. Advocated for the application of psychology in educational and industrial settings. Engaged in various scholarly activities, including publishing influential research and serving in significant academic roles.
Founded the first psychological laboratory in the U.S.
Pioneered mental testing and measurement
Other People Born on May 25th
Theodore Hesburgh
American priest and university president
Born
May 25th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old
Served as the president of the University of Notre Dame from 1952 to 1987. Played a significant role in the growth of the university and its academic reputation. Involved in various national and international educational and social issues. Contributed to the civil rights movement in the United States and engaged in dialogue on peace and justice. Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000.
Continue ReadingIan McKellen
English actor, Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings'
Born
May 25th, 1939 86 years ago
An acclaimed actor with a career spanning over six decades. Gained prominence in theater and film, portraying a range of characters. Notably played Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings' film trilogy and Magneto in the 'X-Men' series. Recognized for contributions to the performing arts and for advocacy work related to LGBTQ+ rights.
Continue ReadingEmperor Sukō of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Nanboku-chō period
Born
May 25th, 1334 691 years ago
Died
1398 627 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1334, this emperor ascended to the throne in a tumultuous era characterized by rival claimants and civil strife. His reign coincided with the Nanboku-chō period, which saw the dividing of the Japanese imperial line between the northern and southern dynasties. The emperor resided primarily in Yoshino, where he was a figurehead for the Southern Court. The reign featured ongoing conflicts against the rival Northern Court, leading to instability and political challenges throughout his rule. Emperor Sukō's reign ended in 1390, with his abdication marking an important moment in the reunification of the imperial line. The period of his rule is significant in the context of Japanese history as it showcases the struggle for power among competing factions within the court.
Continue ReadingMarie Doro
American actress of silent films
Born
May 25th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1956 69 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent actress during the silent film era, recognized for captivating performances in various films. Gained fame with lead roles in productions like 'The Awakening' and 'The Wolf'. During her career, excelled in melodramatic roles that showcased emotional depth and range. Transitioned to sound films but ultimately became less active in the industry as talkies gained popularity. Remained an influential figure in early cinema, with many of her films regarded as classics.
Continue ReadingGlen Drover
Canadian guitarist and songwriter
Born
May 25th, 1969 56 years ago
Guitarist and songwriter contributed to multiple heavy metal bands. Member of the band Megadeth from 2004 to 2008, participating in the album "United Abominations". Played with the band Eidolon, which he co-founded in 1996, releasing several albums. Drover is recognized for his technical skills and contributions to the heavy metal genre.
Continue ReadingIbrahima Konaté
French footballer; UEFA Champions League winner
Born
May 25th, 1999 26 years ago
Born in France in 1999, a professional footballer plays as a central defender. Developed skills at Sochaux's youth academy before joining RB Leipzig in 2017. Helped the team secure the DFB-Pokal title in 2021. Transferred to Liverpool FC in 2021, contributing to the team's success in domestic and European competitions. Achieved recognition for defensive capabilities and became part of the squad that won the UEFA Champions League.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 20th
Zénobe Gramme
Engineer and inventor of the Gramme machine
Born
April 4th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1901 124 years ago — 74 years old
An engineer who developed the Gramme machine, which was the first practical electrical generator to produce direct current. This invention significantly contributed to the widespread use of electricity in the late 19th century. The Gramme machine efficiently converted mechanical energy into electrical energy, facilitating advancements in various industries and applications. The machine gained substantial recognition in the field of electrical engineering, influencing future designs and technologies. Throughout the career, focus remained on electrical generators and innovations that supported the emerging electrical industries, leaving a lasting legacy in engineering.
Continue ReadingCecile Richards
Activist and former Planned Parenthood president
Born
July 15th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2025 0 years ago — 67 years old
Former president of Planned Parenthood, led the organization from 2006 to 2018. Advocated for reproductive rights and access to healthcare services, fostering national discourse on women's health issues. Spearheaded initiatives for funding and support for healthcare services, expanding access amidst political challenges. Authored a memoir detailing personal experiences and the organization's mission.
Continue ReadingJean-François Millet
Painter of rural life and 'The Gleaners'
Born
October 4th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1875 150 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent French painter and educator, Millet specialized in the depiction of peasant life and agricultural scenes. Throughout his career, he aimed to portray the dignity of rural labor. His most celebrated work, 'The Gleaners', showcases three women gleaning wheat, emphasizing the importance of their labor. Millet's style evolved from realism to a more impressionistic approach, highlighting the natural beauty of the countryside. He was a key figure in the Barbizon School, which focused on realistic portrayals of rural scenes and landscapes. In addition to painting, he contributed to the education of other artists, influencing the development of modern art.
Continue ReadingJohn Levy
Bassist and music manager
Born
April 11th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 99 years old
A prominent bassist and music manager, contributions spanned several decades. Managed the careers of several notable jazz musicians, including George Shearing and Sarah Vaughan. Played bass for many major jazz acts and participated in numerous recording sessions. His expertise in both performance and management helped shape the careers of many artists during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingAmílcar Cabral
Guinea Bissauan-Cape Verdian politician
Born
September 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1973 52 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent political figure and revolutionary leader, contributions in the struggle for independence in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde defined a significant part of the mid-20th century decolonization effort in Africa. Cabral co-founded the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), aiming to combat colonial rule. His strategies combined guerrilla warfare with political mobilization, working to unify the people against Portuguese colonialism. Through extensive political writings and theorizing, he advocated for colonial liberation and emphasized the importance of cultural identity in the fight for independence. Cabral was assassinated in 1973, shortly before the success of the liberation movement.
Continue ReadingAdam Oehlenschläger
Danish poet and playwright of Niels Ebbesen
Born
November 14th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1850 175 years ago — 70 years old
A significant figure in Danish literature, this poet and playwright contributed greatly to the national romantic movement in Denmark. He was one of the founders of modern Danish literature and wrote extensively in both poetry and drama. The works often drew inspiration from Danish history and folklore. His most recognized play, Niels Ebbesen, is based on the historical figure who led resistance against foreign invaders. The success of this play solidified a place in the canon of Danish literature. Oehlenschläger's poetry also highlighted themes of nature, love, and national identity, reflecting the romantic ideals of the era.
Continue Reading