Johann Philipp Reis
German physicist who invented the Reis telephone
Contributed to the field of telecommunications through the invention of an early version of the telephone. Developed the Reis telephone in 1860, which utilized electromagnetic acoustic principles to transmit sound over wires. Worked as a physicist and held academic positions, emphasizing the importance of electrical engineering and acoustics. Engaged in various experiments that paved the way for future advancements in communication technologies.
Invented the Reis telephone in 1860
Contributed to early telecommunication science
Other People Born on January 7th
Wayne Routledge
English footballer and player for Swansea City
Born
January 7th, 1985 40 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a winger from 2003 onward. Started career at Crystal Palace, where debut occurred at 18 years old. Had spells at clubs such as Southampton, Queens Park Rangers, and Swansea City. Achieved promotion with both QPR and Swansea City to the Premier League. Contributed to Swansea City's victory in the 2013 League Cup, marking the club's first major trophy. Retired from professional football in 2021.
Continue ReadingHudson Fysh
Pilot and co-founder of Qantas Airways
Born
January 7th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1974 51 years ago — 79 years old
Co-founded Qantas Airways Limited, which became Australia's largest airline. Played a significant role in developing the airline's operations and expansion throughout its early years. Contributed to the design and establishment of various aircraft used by the airline. Instrumental in establishing the Australian aviation industry post-World War II. Served as managing director and was pivotal in securing international routes for Qantas.
Continue ReadingBabe Pratt
Ice hockey player and Hall of Famer
Born
January 7th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 72 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the NHL from 1935 to 1948. Provided strong defensive skills and offensive contributions while playing for the New York Rangers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Won the Hart Memorial Trophy in 1944 as the NHL's most valuable player. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966.
Continue ReadingWilliam Clarence Matthews
Baseball player and lawyer, coached Red Sox
Born
January 7th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1928 97 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1877, this individual played Major League Baseball as a shortstop for the Boston Red Sox. Career spanned from 1901 to 1902. In addition to his athletic career, this person also pursued a profession in law. After leaving professional baseball, this individual contributed to the game as a coach. The combination of athletics and legal expertise marked a unique pathway during a time when few were able to blend sports and law.
Continue ReadingJoseph Bonaparte
Italian King and older brother of Napoleon
Born
January 7th, 1768 257 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1844 181 years ago — 76 years old
An Italian nobleman, served as King of Naples from 1806 to 1808 and King of Spain from 1808 to 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars. Appointed by his brother Napoleon Bonaparte, implemented several administrative reforms in Spain. After the fall of his reign, lived in exile in various countries including the United States, where he resided for many years.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory XIII
Pope and reformer of the calendar
Born
January 7th, 1502 523 years ago
Died
1585 440 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1502, served as pope from 1572 to 1585. Implemented the Gregorian calendar reform in 1582, correcting the Julian calendar's inaccuracies. This reform led to the adoption of a more precise method of calculating leap years, which remains in use today. Promoted the establishment of colleges and seminaries for the education of the clergy. Advocated for the Catholic Counter-Reformation efforts during a significant period of religious upheaval in Europe.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 14th
Thomas Beckington
English statesman and prelate
Died
January 14th, 1465 560 years ago — None years old
Served as a prominent English statesman and prelate during the 15th century. Held the position of Bishop of Bath and Wells, providing significant influence in ecclesiastical and political matters. Played a pivotal role as a diplomat, representing the English crown in negotiations. Notably supported the rebuilding of Wells Cathedral after a devastating fire, showcasing dedication to both religious and civic duties. His contributions spanned various aspects of governance and church leadership.
Continue ReadingArtur Kapp
Estonian composer and conductor
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1952 73 years ago — 74 years old
Active during the early to mid-20th century, this composer and conductor contributed significantly to Estonian music. His work included symphonies, choral pieces, and operas, reflecting national themes and folk traditions. Educated in both Estonia and abroad, conducted various orchestras and was involved in the establishment of music education in Estonia. The composer’s music displays a blend of classical Western elements with local Estonian influences. His works are performed by national and international ensembles, contributing to the cultural heritage of Estonia.
Continue ReadingGeorge Berkeley
Anglo-Irish philosopher of idealism
Born
March 12th, 1685 340 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1753 272 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed significantly to early modern philosophy, advocating for immaterialism, which asserted that objects only exist as perceptions. Authored 'A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge', challenging the materialism prevalent in his era. Engaged in debates with prominent thinkers such as John Locke and David Hume, emphasizing the role of the perceiver in the existence of objects. Also served as the Bishop of Cloyne, emphasizing the relationship between philosophy and theology.
Continue ReadingAsım Gündüz
Turkish general during World War II
Born
1880 145 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1970 55 years ago — 90 years old
Turkish military figure served as a general during World War II. Contributed to strategic planning and military operations. Commanded crucial units and was involved in the reform and modernization of the Turkish Armed Forces. Played a significant role in post-war military strategy and organization.
Continue ReadingOdoric of Pordenone
Italian priest and explorer of Asia
Born
1286 739 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1331 694 years ago — 45 years old
A Franciscan friar undertook a significant journey through Asia in the early 14th century, traveling extensively in China and India. Documented experiences in regions such as Persia and Tibet contributed to a greater understanding of these areas in Europe. Writings following the travels detailed cultural practices, religions, and geography, serving as an important resource for future explorers and scholars.
Continue ReadingSergei Korolev
Soviet rocket engineer and spacecraft designer
Born
January 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1966 59 years ago — 59 years old
An influential figure in the early stages of space exploration, an engineer and designer played a key role in the development of the Soviet space program. Established as Head Designer of the Soviet Union's first satellite, Sputnik 1, which was launched in 1957, marking the start of the space age. Led the design of the Vostok spacecraft used for the first human spaceflight by Yuri Gagarin in 1961. Instrumental in advancing rocket technology and satellite design during the Cold War era, contributing significantly to various missions that laid the groundwork for future exploration.
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