Johann Bernoulli
Mathematician and pioneer of calculus
Born
August 6th, 1667
357 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1748
277 years ago — 80 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Switzerland
Links & References
A prominent figure in the development of calculus, contributed significantly to the field of mathematics and made important advancements in differential equations and infinite series. Held a professorship at the University of Basel and engaged with contemporaries such as Euler. Recognized for his work on the calculus of variations, particularly through the famous Brachistochrone problem. Actively participated in mathematical competitions and corresponded with leading mathematicians of the time.
Contributed to the development of calculus
Solved the Brachistochrone problem
Advanced the study of differential equations
Other People Born on August 6th
Stéphane Peterhansel
A prominent figure in rally racing, achieved significant success in the Dakar Rally, securing a total of 14 victories across both motorcycle and car categories. Began racing motorcycles in the 1980s, transitioning to four wheels later in his career. Dominated the Dakar Rally, showcasing skill in navigation and endurance through challenging terrains. Competed for various teams, including Yamaha and Peugeot, prominently establishing a legacy in motorsport.
Continue ReadingAlfred Lord Tennyson
This individual was a prominent English poet who served as Poet Laureate during much of Queen Victoria's reign. With a prolific career, produced several celebrated works that captured the imagination of readers across generations. Major themes included love, nature, and mythology. The poem 'The Charge of the Light Brigade' highlighted both valor and folly, gaining significant attention for its vivid imagery and somber reflection on war. 'In Memoriam A.H.H.' expressed profound grief and is considered a landmark work in elegiac poetry. Tennyson's contributions shaped the landscape of Victorian literature and influenced future poets.
Continue ReadingJames Henry Greathead
A civil engineer, Greathead developed the shield tunneling method, which revolutionized underground construction. Born in South Africa with English heritage, education included a degree in engineering from the University of Edinburgh. The method was first employed for the construction of the Tower Subway in London, completed in 1870, marking a significant advancement in tunneling technology. Greathead worked on various railway tunneling projects including the Central London Railway and the City and South London Railway.
Continue ReadingAlexander Fleming
A Scottish biologist, pharmacologist, and botanist, contributed significantly to the field of medicinal chemistry. Discovered penicillin in 1928, which paved the way for the development of antibiotics. His work transformed medical practice and saved countless lives. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945 alongside Howard Florey and Ernst Boris Chain for the discovery and development of penicillin. This discovery marked the beginning of modern antibiotics and has had enduring implications in medicine.
Continue ReadingCharles VII
Born in 1697, served as Holy Roman Emperor and Elector of Bavaria during a significant period of European history. His reign encompassed the War of the Austrian Succession and the ensuing political turbulence. He sought to unify the German states and strengthen the power of the emperor amid rising challenges. His ascension faced opposition, and his reign was marked by conflicts with Britain and France over territorial disputes in Europe. Efforts included military campaigns to defend the realm and preserve the interests of Bavaria in the empire. Died in 1745, leaving a complex legacy within the Holy Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingFreddie Laker
A pilot and businessman founded Laker Airways, pioneering low-cost transatlantic air travel. Launched the first no-frills airline service between the UK and the US in 1977. The airline became popular for its budget fares and innovative approaches to air travel. Despite facing significant competition and regulatory challenges, Laker Airways became a significant player in the aviation industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 1st
William of Volpiano
An Italian abbot and music theorist, played a significant role in the development of monastic music in the 11th century. Founded the Abbey of St. Benigne in Dijon, which became an important center for the propagation of the Benedictine Rule and liturgical reforms. Promoted the use of notation systems that influenced the development of Western music. Contributed to the establishment of the Gregorian chant in various monasteries, enhancing the uniformity of liturgical practices across regions.
Continue ReadingTownes Van Zandt
A prominent figure in American folk music, contributions spanned several decades from the 1960s. Renowned for a distinctive style, lyrical depth, and emotive performances, influenced the singer-songwriter genre. Inspired by traditional folk and country, created a significant body of work including multiple acclaimed albums. Collaborated with various artists and left a lasting legacy within the music community, despite struggles with personal issues and a turbulent lifestyle.
Continue ReadingMartinus Beijerinck
Contributions in microbiology focused on the study of viruses and soil microbiology. Developed the concept of viruses as infectious agents while working with tobacco mosaic virus. Held a position at the Delft University of Technology where extensive research on microorganisms was conducted. Recognized for establishing foundational principles in environmental microbiology, including the identification of nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Authored significant publications that advanced the understanding of microbial processes in soil ecology.
Continue ReadingJulia Phillips
A prominent film producer and author, this individual contributed significantly to the American film industry. In 1974, produced the Academy Award-winning movie 'The Sting,' which received critical acclaim. Also involved in the production of 'Taxi Driver' and 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind.' Shifting to literature, authored an autobiography titled 'You'll Never Eat Lunch in This Town Again,' which provided an insider's perspective of Hollywood. The work became a best-seller and reflected on the complexities of the film industry. Later in career, focused on television production and screenwriting, continuing to influence the entertainment landscape until death in 2002.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Guardi
Active during the 18th century, this painter specialized in capriccios, and vedutas, focusing on the Venetian landscape. His work captured the vibrancy and architectural beauty of Venice, contributing significantly to the development of the landscape genre. As a teacher, he influenced future generations of artists. Although associated with the Rococo style, his compositions reflect a unique interpretation that merged realism with artistry. His later works evolved towards a more impressionistic style, demonstrating an innovative approach to color and light.
Continue ReadingOdo I
Ruled as king of the Franks from 888 until death in 898. Ascended to the throne following the death of Charles the Bald and engaged in significant military campaigns against Viking invasions. Strengthened the position of the monarchy amidst the internal conflicts among noble factions. Regarded for uniting various factions within the kingdom during a tumultuous period. Promoted the defense of Paris, which remained a key city throughout subsequent conflicts.
Continue Reading