James Short
Mathematician and optician
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Born in 1710, this Scottish-English figure made significant contributions to mathematics and optics. His work in geometry led to the development of the first reflecting telescope using a parabolic mirror. He published influential texts, including treatises on the construction of telescopes and the applications of geometric principles in optics. A prominent figure in the 18th-century scientific community, he engaged with other leading intellectuals of the time, enhancing the understanding of optical sciences and instruments.
Developed the first parabolic reflector telescope
Published significant works on optics and geometry
Other People Born on June 21st
Alexander J. Dallas
United States Secretary of the Treasury
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Died
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Jamaican-American lawyer and politician served as the sixth United States Secretary of the Treasury from 1814 to 1815. Played a key role in managing the financial affairs of the nation during the War of 1812. Prior to this position, held the office of the Attorney General of Pennsylvania and contributed significantly to state legal matters. Also served as the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania before his appointment to the federal treasury. Participated in various initiatives to stabilize the economy and public finances.
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Hungarian mathematician and scholar
Born
June 21st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
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Continue ReadingJudy Holliday
American actress in 'Born Yesterday'
Born
June 21st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1965 60 years ago — 43 years old
An accomplished actress and singer, celebrated for significant contributions to American cinema and theatre. Starred in the original Broadway production of 'Born Yesterday', earning a Tony Award for her performance. Transitioned to film, achieving critical acclaim for the movie adaptation of 'Born Yesterday', which garnered an Academy Award for Best Actress. In addition to her film work, participated in various stage productions, showcasing remarkable versatility and talent.
Continue ReadingWilliam Vickrey
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 21st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 82 years old
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Continue ReadingKathleen O'Kelly-Kennedy
Australian wheelchair basketball player
Born
June 21st, 1986 39 years ago
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Continue ReadingLeonhard Rauwolf
Physician and botanist; travel writings
Born
June 21st, 1535 490 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1596 429 years ago — 61 years old
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Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 15th
James Hunt
Race car driver; 1976 Formula One champion
Born
August 29th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
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Continue ReadingKirk Kerkorian
American businessman and casino mogul
Born
June 6th, 1917 108 years ago
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Continue ReadingElla Fitzgerald
Jazz singer and Grammy winner
Born
April 25th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1996 29 years ago — 79 years old
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Continue ReadingHerb Pearson
New Zealand cricketer and coach
Born
1910 116 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2006 19 years ago — 96 years old
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Blues guitarist and musician, The Blues Brothers
Born
1929 97 years ago
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Continue ReadingKenneth G. Wilson
Physicist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
June 8th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
A physicist and academic, contributions included work on phase transitions and critical phenomena. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1982 for theoretical discoveries in physical systems, particularly for the renormalization group theory. His research influenced various fields such as condensed matter physics and statistical mechanics. Held a position at Ohio State University where he contributed to the education of many physicists and continued academic research. Also contributed to public understanding of science through educational programs.
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