James Watt

Inventive engineer and steam engine developer

James Watt - Inventive engineer and steam engine developer
Born

January 19th, 1736
289 years ago

Died

August 25th, 1819
206 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Scotland

Links & References

Significant contributions to the improvement of the steam engine took place during the 18th century. Developed the separate condenser, which greatly enhanced efficiency. Collaborated with Matthew Boulton to establish the manufacturing of steam engines, facilitating the Industrial Revolution. Understood the importance of precision engineering and standardization in manufacturing processes. Introduced innovations such as the rotary motion and the concept of horsepower, which found applications beyond steam engines.

Improved steam engine efficiency with a separate condenser

Co-founded Boulton and Watt, a successful engineering company

Introduced the term 'horsepower' as a unit of measurement

Other People Born on January 19th

Ricardo Centurión

Argentine footballer and Boca Juniors player
Born
January 19th, 1993 32 years ago

Born in 1993, this Argentine footballer began his career in the youth ranks of Racing Club. He debuted in 2011 and quickly established himself as a promising winger. His performances earned a transfer to Genoa in Italy in 2014. After stints back in Argentina with Racing Club and a loan to Boca Juniors, he gained attention for his speed and skill on the ball. He contributed to Boca Juniors’ domestic success during his time with the club, further solidifying his reputation in Argentine football.

Continue Reading

Boris Blacher

Composer known for 'Kreuzfahrer' opera
Born
January 19th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1903, an influential German composer and playwright contributed significantly to music in the 20th century. Education at the Berlin Hochschule für Musik under prominent figures shaped the early career. Blacher's style integrated various musical trends, including jazz and avant-garde elements. The opera 'Kreuzfahrer' gained recognition, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern influences. Beyond opera, he composed for film and wrote numerous orchestral works.

Continue Reading

Robert Palmer

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'Addicted to Love'
Born
January 19th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2003 22 years ago — 54 years old

An English singer-songwriter and guitarist emerged as a prominent figure in the music industry during the late 20th century. Palmer's music style blended rock, soul, and pop, showcasing a distinctive vocal ability. He achieved widespread recognition with the hit single 'Addicted to Love' in 1986, which received significant radio play and has become one of his signature songs. The artist released numerous albums throughout his career, with works such as 'Riptide' and 'Pressure Drop' contributing to his legacy.

Continue Reading

Shawn Johnson East

Gymnast and Olympic gold medalist
Born
January 19th, 1992 33 years ago

Gained prominence as a gymnast competing for the United States. Achieved success at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where secured four medals, including gold in the balance beam event. Competed at the World Championships and contributed to the team winning team events. Retired from elite gymnastics after the Olympics and pursued a career in entertainment.

Continue Reading

Claudio Marchisio

Italian footballer and Juventus midfielder
Born
January 19th, 1986 39 years ago

Played as a midfielder primarily for Juventus, having joined the club's youth academy. Debuted in 2006 and contributed to the team's multiple Serie A title victories from 2012 to 2019. Represented the Italian national team, participating in the FIFA World Cup in 2010, 2014, and 2018, and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Euro 2020.

Continue Reading

Pete Buttigieg

American politician and former mayor
Born
January 19th, 1982 43 years ago

Served as the Mayor of South Bend, Indiana, from 2012 to 2020. Ran for the Democratic nomination for President in 2020, gaining national attention for platform proposals focusing on issues such as infrastructure and climate change. In 2021, appointed as the Secretary of Transportation, overseeing significant initiatives in transportation infrastructure and policy. Successfully led the South Bend community through a period of revitalization and economic growth during tenure as mayor.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 25th

Beatrice of Silesia

Queen consort of Germany
Died
August 25th, 1322 703 years ago — None years old

Born around 1292, served as queen consort of Germany through marriage to King Henry VII of the Romans. Through this union, significantly contributed to the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during its contested period. Passed away on August 25, 1322.

Continue Reading

Nikolay Gumilyov

Russian poet and literary critic
Born
April 15th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1921 104 years ago — 35 years old

Born in 1886, this poet played a crucial role in the Acmeist movement, which emphasized clarity of language and imagery in poetry. His early works exhibited a strong fascination with nature and the human experience. A significant part of his literary output includes the collection 'The Wavelengths', which showcases his lyrical style. He was a contemporary of other literary figures and had a profound influence on Russian literature during the early 20th century. In addition to his poetry, he wrote critiques that addressed the philosophy and purpose of literature. His life came to an early end in 1921 due to political circumstances.

Continue Reading

Oscar Cabalén

Argentinian racing driver champion
Born
February 4th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1967 58 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1928, a prominent figure in Argentine motorsports, achieved significant success in the Turismo Carretera series during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Achieved major victories driving iconic cars like the Ford and Chevrolet. Won the Turismo Carretera championship in 1954, becoming one of the leading drivers of his time. Participated in several international races, representing Argentina on various stages and contributing to the development of motorsport in the country. Was involved in efforts to promote racing and enhance safety standards in the sport.

Continue Reading

Alphonso of Brienne

French noble and military leader
Died
August 25th, 1270 755 years ago — None years old

Born around 1225, held the title of Count of Brienne and participated in the War of Saint-Sardos. Fought for the French crown during the latter part of the 13th century, achieving recognition for leadership in military campaigns. Served as a loyal vassal to the Capetian dynasty and played a crucial role in various military endeavors on behalf of King Louis IX. Died on August 25, 1270, during the Eighth Crusade.

Continue Reading

Henry Morgan

Welsh admiral and Lieutenant Governor
Born
1635 390 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1688 337 years ago — 53 years old

A Welsh admiral and politician, served as the Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica during the late 17th century. Achieved prominence through privateering and sacking Spanish settlements in the Caribbean. Participated in the capture of the city of Panama in 1670, one of the most significant exploits of his career. Established a reputation for bravery and tactical skill, later appointed as a plantation owner and a key figure in the administration of the colony.

Continue Reading

Raghunath Panigrahi

Indian singer-songwriter and composer
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old

An influential figure in Indian music, contributed significantly to Odia classical music as a singer and composer. Panigrahi was well recognized for popularizing traditional Odia folk songs and experimenting with contemporary styles. Created numerous albums and performed in various platforms, showcasing the richness of Odisha's musical heritage. His dedication to teaching music also played a pivotal role in nurturing future generations of musicians.

Continue Reading