James Watt
Inventive engineer and steam engine developer

Born
January 19th, 1736
289 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1819
205 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
Dainius Adomaitis
A former professional basketball player and coach. Played primarily as a shooting guard during a career that included stints in Lithuanian and European leagues. Transitioned to coaching, leading teams in various leagues, including the Lithuanian Basketball League and the EuroLeague. Achievements as a coach include significant playoff runs and developing young talent in the sport. Held a coaching position for the Lithuanian national team, contributing to its competitive successes in international tournaments.
Continue ReadingMac Miller
Born in Pittsburgh, this artist began rising to fame with the mixtape 'K.I.D.S.' released in 2010. The debut studio album, 'Blue Slide Park,' achieved commercial success, becoming the first independently distributed debut album to top the Billboard 200 chart since 1995. Miller's music spanned multiple genres, incorporating elements of jazz, soul, and hip-hop, and his later works, such as 'Swimming' and 'Circles,' showed artistic growth and maturity. He collaborated with various artists, further broadening his influence in the music industry before his untimely passing in 2018.
Continue ReadingAlfie Mawson
A central defender played for clubs such as Swansea City and Barnsley. Came through the youth ranks at Brentford before signing with Barnsley. Contributed to Barnsley's promotion to the Championship in 2016, making a significant impact during that season. Transferred to Swansea City in 2017, helping the team avoid relegation in his first season. Earned recognition for defensive skills and leadership on the pitch.
Continue ReadingIsh Kabibble
Originated as a cornet player, contributed to comedic performances in the 1930s and 1940s. Gained prominence with the orchestra of Kay Kyser and appeared in films such as 'You're in the Army Now' and 'That Night in Rio'. Established a unique style combining music and humor, performing in various venues and shows throughout the United States.
Continue ReadingWhitfield Crane
A singer-songwriter achieved recognition as the lead vocalist of the rock band Ugly Kid Joe. The band gained fame in the early 1990s with the hit single 'Everything About You,' which became a commercial success, reaching high positions on music charts. Subsequently, the band released several albums, including 'America's Least Wanted,' which featured other popular songs. Crane's style blended elements of hard rock and alternative metal, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. He also participated in various other musical projects and collaborations throughout the years, showcasing versatility in the music industry.
Continue ReadingRicardo Centurión
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on August 25th
Michael Faraday
Born in 1791, a prominent English physicist and chemist significantly contributed to the fields of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. Worked at the Royal Institution in London, where conducted groundbreaking experiments that laid the foundation for many technologies used today. Developed the concepts of electromagnetic fields and induction, leading to the invention of the electric motor. His work on electrolysis established fundamental laws still applied in modern chemistry.
Continue ReadingLao She
A prominent Chinese novelist and dramatist, created works that portray life in 20th century Beijing. Wrote notable novels such as 'Rickshaw Boy' and 'Four Generations under One Roof', reflecting social issues and cultural changes. Additionally, penned the play 'Tea House', which has become a classic in Chinese literature. His writing is characterized by its rich language and deep understanding of the Chinese society of the time. In later years, faced challenges during political upheaval, which influenced his later works and life.
Continue ReadingWilliam Champ
Born in England in 1808, significant contributions to Tasmanian politics occurred after migrating to Australia. Champ served as the first Premier of Tasmania from 1856 to 1857, leading the state during its formative years. Champ focused on establishing a stable government and was involved in developing the local economy. His work laid the foundation for future political developments in the region.
Continue ReadingFranz Conrad von Hötzendorf
Served as Chief of the General Staff of the Austro-Hungarian Army from 1906 to 1917. Played a significant role in the early stages of World War I, leading several military campaigns against Serbia and Italy. His strategies and decisions significantly influenced the Austro-Hungarian military efforts during the war, although the outcomes faced heavy criticism. After the war, faced challenges during the political changes leading to the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Continue ReadingKároly Kós
Major contributions include the design of numerous buildings and structures that highlight the integration of traditional Hungarian and Romanian styles. Served as a politician representing the interests of ethnic Hungarians in Romania. Participated in the architectural movement focused on preserving cultural heritage, particularly in Transylvania. Worked on the establishment of the Hungarian National Museum's Museum of Ethnography, emphasizing the importance of ethnological research and documentation.
Continue ReadingAhmad al-Mansur
Ruled the Saadi dynasty from 1578 to 1603, implementing significant military and cultural advancements. Expanded Moroccan territory during the reign, particularly through victories against the Portuguese and in the Battle of Alcácer Quibir. Promoted the arts and architecture, commissioning the famous Bab agnaou gate and the construction of the city of Marrakech. Enhanced trade relations with European powers, positioning Morocco as a key player in regional politics and trade.
Continue Reading