Jen Golbeck
Computer Scientist specializing in social media
A computer scientist and academic focused on social media and web science. Worked extensively on social network analysis and the development of algorithms for understanding user interactions. Contributed to the advancement of machine learning techniques in social media contexts. Held a faculty position at the University of Maryland, where research included work on social media privacy and the prediction of social behavior through online data.
Developed algorithms for social network analysis
Published influential research on social media privacy
Other People Born on December 16th
Joel Garner
Cricketer and West Indies team manager
Born
December 16th, 1952 73 years ago
A Barbadian cricketer and manager, made significant contributions to the sport, particularly as a fast bowler. Garner played for the West Indies national cricket team from 1977 to 1987. He was part of the team that won the Cricket World Cup in 1975 and 1979. Known for his height and bounce, he was a formidable bowler during his career. After retiring from playing, took on the role of team manager for the West Indies, helping to guide the next generation of players. Garner was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2016.
Continue ReadingSergio Reguilón
Spanish footballer, UEFA Europa League winner
Born
December 16th, 1996 29 years ago
A professional footballer, played primarily as a left-back. Began career at Real Madrid, where he progressed through the youth system, making his debut for the first team. Had a successful loan spell at Sevilla FC, contributing to the team's victory in the UEFA Europa League in 2020. Transferred to Tottenham Hotspur in 2020, continuing to compete in top-tier football in the Premier League.
Continue ReadingLudwig van Beethoven
Pianist and composer of symphonies
Born
December 16th, 1770 255 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1827 198 years ago — 56 years old
A pivotal figure in the transition between the Classical and Romantic eras in Western music. Composed symphonies, sonatas, and string quartets that remain influential in music history. Created 9 symphonies, including the widely celebrated Symphony No. 5 and Symphony No. 9, which features the 'Ode to Joy' choral finale. Struggled with deafness later in life, continuing to compose music despite this challenge.
Continue ReadingPrince Lorenz of Belgium
Archduke and businessman
Born
December 16th, 1955 70 years ago
Born in 1955, this individual is a member of the Austrian imperial family and a Belgian aristocrat. Completing education in business, finance, and economics, held various roles in private enterprises. Engaged in several charitable foundations, focusing on cultural and educational causes. Entrusted with responsibilities related to the management of family estates and interests in the social and cultural sectors.
Continue ReadingPiet Hein
Danish poet and mathematician
Born
December 16th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
A poet and mathematician from Denmark contributed to both fields significantly. Established a reputation for writing short, witty poems called 'grooks' that combine humor with philosophical insights. Also made notable contributions to recreational mathematics, including work on mathematical puzzles and optimization. Created the Soma cube, a popular puzzle in and of itself that reflects abstract mathematical concepts. Contributed to scientific discourse through the intersection of mathematics and art.
Continue ReadingLizzy Mercier Descloux
Musician and singer-songwriter
Born
December 16th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 47 years old
A musician and singer-songwriter from France, gained recognition for pioneering the early '80s new wave and post-punk scenes. Released several albums, including "Press Color" and "Idiosyncrasy," showcasing a fusion of various musical styles and poetic lyrics. Also ventured into writing and painting, reflecting a multifaceted creative career that spanned multiple decades. Contributed to the music industry not only through recordings but also through live performances that captured attention in France and beyond. The work retained cultural relevance well after the artist's passing.
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