James Short

Mathematician and optician

James Short - Scientists & Innovators born June 21st, 1710
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
Born
June 21st, 1759 266 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1817 208 years ago — 57 years old

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.

Continue Reading

Nils Lofgren

Singer-songwriter and guitarist with E Street Band
Born
June 21st, 1951 74 years ago

Acted as guitarist and songwriter for the E Street Band, collaborating with Bruce Springsteen. Released solo albums including 'Cry Tough' and 'Night After Night'. Co-founded the band Grin in the early 1970s, contributing to their rock sound. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the E Street Band, recognizing his contributions to rock music.

Continue Reading

Dylan Brown

New Zealand rugby league player
Born
June 21st, 2000 25 years ago

A rugby league player from New Zealand, recognized for playing as a five-eighth for the Parramatta Eels in the National Rugby League (NRL). Brown debuted in the NRL in 2019, quickly establishing himself as a key player for the Eels. His skill and strategic gameplay contributed to the team's performance in several competitive seasons. Brown has also represented New Zealand in international competitions, showcasing talent on the world stage.

Continue Reading

Flaviano Vicentini

Italian Cyclist and Olympic Competitor
Born
June 21st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 60 years old

Competed in cycling events, particularly in road racing. Participated in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, representing Italy. Achieved notable success in national championships and various international cycling competitions. Known for endurance and tactical racing abilities throughout the cycling career.

Continue Reading

Margaret Heckler

American politician and health secretary
Born
June 21st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2018 7 years ago — 87 years old

Worked as a journalist and lawyer before serving as the 15th United States Secretary of Health and Human Services from 1983 to 1985. Played a key role in health policy during her tenure, including efforts to combat drug abuse and enhance healthcare access. Represented Massachusetts in the House of Representatives from 1967 to 1983, contributing to various legislative initiatives.

Continue Reading

Lil Bub

Celebrity cat with internet fame
Born
June 21st, 2011 14 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 8 years old

A cat that gained popularity on social media for its unique appearance and playful personality. Lil Bub became a viral sensation, attracting millions of followers and influenced internet culture. The cat had a distinctive look due to several genetic mutations, which contributed to its charming presence. Lil Bub made appearances on various television shows, showcasing its personality to a wider audience and was featured in a documentary titled 'Lil Bub & Friendz.' The cat's playful antics and gentle demeanor endeared it to fans around the world, leading to a dedicated fanbase.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 15th

Henri Alekan

Cinematographer of 'La Belle et la Bête'
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2001 24 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent French cinematographer, contributions spanned several decades, beginning in the 1940s. Work included collaboration with notable directors and participation in films that became significant in the history of cinema. Gained recognition for innovative cinematographic techniques. Contributed to projects across various genres, working predominantly within French cinema. The visually striking approach in films captured the artistic essence of the narratives, with some projects receiving critical acclaim.

Continue Reading

Matt "Guitar" Murphy

Blues guitarist and musician, The Blues Brothers
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2018 7 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent guitarist in the blues genre, contributed to various recordings and performances throughout a prolific career. Achieved recognition for work with the legendary band The Blues Brothers, which included both music and film. Collaborated with various artists, showcasing versatility and skill in the genre. In addition to performing, participated in several notable albums that shaped the blues sound.

Continue Reading

Ella Fitzgerald

Jazz singer and Grammy winner
Born
April 25th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1996 29 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1917, a prominent jazz singer emerged, recognized for exceptional vocal skills and improvisational ability. Achievements included collaborations with notable musicians such as Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong. Fitzgerald's discography features iconic albums like 'Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Duke Ellington Songbook' and 'Ella and Louis'. Through a prolific career, she received numerous accolades, including 14 Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Continue Reading

Moise Safra

Brazilian businessman, Banco Safra co-founder
Born
April 5th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1934, a Brazilian businessman and philanthropist co-founded Banco Safra, a major financial institution in Brazil. The banking enterprise became one of the leading private banks in the country. Significant contributions were made to various philanthropic initiatives, focusing on education and cultural projects. Throughout a career marked by financial leadership, established a reputation in the banking sector and contributed to numerous charitable foundations.

Continue Reading

Daniel Keyes

American novelist, wrote 'Flowers for Algernon'
Born
August 9th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1927, worked as a teacher and writer. Published short stories and novels, gaining recognition for 'Flowers for Algernon,' which began as a short story and was later expanded into a novel. This work explored themes of intelligence and human experience through the story of a man with an intellectual disability who undergoes an experimental surgery to increase his IQ. The story received significant attention and acclaim, leading to adaptations in film and stage. Keyes also wrote other novels and contributed to the literary community through various publications and workshops.

Continue Reading

Glenda Jackson

Actress and British politician
Born
May 9th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2023 2 years ago — 87 years old

Acclaimed for a career in both acting and politics. Achieved significant recognition as an actress, winning two Academy Awards for Best Actress for performances in 'Women in Love' and 'A Touch of Class'. Transitioned to a career in politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Highgate from 1992 to 2015. Returned to acting after her parliamentary career, receiving accolades and awards for stage performances.

Continue Reading