Johannes Rydberg
Swedish physicist and academic
Rydberg contributed significantly to the field of physics, specifically in atomic spectroscopy. Developed the Rydberg formula, which describes the wavelengths of spectral lines in many chemical elements. The formula has broad applications in understanding atomic structures and transitions. Held a professorship at the University of Lund and influenced the development of quantum theory during his academic career.
Developed the Rydberg formula for spectral lines
Made contributions to atomic spectroscopy
Held a professorship at the University of Lund
Other People Born on November 8th
Dale Gardner
American astronaut and mission commander
Born
November 8th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
An American captain and astronaut, played a crucial role in space exploration during the 1980s. Flew on two Space Shuttle missions, STS-7 in 1983 and STS-51G in 1985, participating in satellite deployment and scientific experiments. Served in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot before joining NASA. Contributed to the development and testing of new technologies for space missions. Upon retiring from NASA, worked in various engineering and management roles in the aerospace industry.
Continue ReadingEugênio Sales
Brazilian cardinal and church leader
Born
November 8th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
Eugênio Sales served as a prominent Brazilian cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church. Appointed the Archbishop of São Salvador da Bahia in 1971, played a crucial role in the church's operations in Brazil. In 1973, elevated to Cardinal by Pope Paul VI, participated in the conclave that elected Pope John Paul I and the subsequent election of Pope John Paul II in 1978. Contributed significantly to the discussions and direction of the Catholic Church in Latin America, particularly during the period following the Second Vatican Council. Remained active in church affairs until retirement, engaging with various social and religious issues affecting Brazil.
Continue ReadingNikolaos Triantafyllakos
Greek politician, Prime Minister
Born
November 8th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1939 87 years ago — 84 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Greece during the early 20th century. Led the country during a challenging period marked by political instability and economic difficulties. Focused on reforming governmental structures and improving public administration. His tenure included navigating international relations and domestic challenges.
Continue ReadingPhilipp I
Count of Hanau-Lichtenberg
Born
November 8th, 1417 608 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1500 525 years ago — 82 years old
Count of Hanau-Lichtenberg ruled from 1458 until his death in 1480. Born in 1417, held the title through various challenges in the region. Oversaw political and territorial matters in the Rhine region, influencing local governance and alliances. His reign was characterized by efforts to strengthen his territories and manage relationships with neighboring powers, contributing to the stability of Hanau-Lichtenberg during his time.
Continue ReadingGeorge Bouzianis
Greek painter of modern art
Born
November 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1959 66 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1885, contributed significantly to modern Greek art. Studied at the Munich Academy and later settled in Athens, where his work featured bold colors and dynamic forms. Explored themes of urban life, nature, and Greek identity throughout his career. Established his reputation in the 1920s with a series of exhibitions. His paintings often depicted landscapes and figures, reflecting both tradition and contemporary influences. Participated in various national and international art exhibitions, gaining recognition in the Mediterranean art scene.
Continue ReadingPeter Arundell
Race car driver with success in Formula One
Born
November 8th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 76 years old
Engaged in motorsport as a race car driver, primarily competed in Formula One during the early 1960s. Achieved notable results with the Team Lotus and drove a variety of cars, including the Lotus 24. Contributed to the development of competitive racing techniques and participated in several Grand Prix events throughout his career. Also raced in the British Saloon Car Championship and secured significant podium finishes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 28th
Jack Blackham
Cricketer and Test cricket pioneer
Born
May 11th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1932 93 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent cricketer, played wicketkeeper for Australia during the late 19th century. Debuted in Test cricket, participating in the very first Test match in 1877. Contributed to the development of wicketkeeping techniques and played a crucial role in the Australian cricket team for several years. After retiring, Blackham continued to be involved in cricket as an administrator and coach, influencing future generations of players.
Continue ReadingMaurice Ravel
French composer of orchestral music
Born
March 7th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1937 88 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent figure in early 20th-century music, one contributed significantly to classical compositions. Born in the Basque region of France, created innovative works that merged classical and nationalistic elements. Known for intricate orchestration and distinctive melodies, compositions include the ballet 'Daphnis et Chloé' and the orchestral piece 'Boléro.' Worked as a conductor and was influenced by various musical styles, including jazz and Spanish music. His works often featured complex harmonies and rhythms, which helped shape modern classical music.
Continue ReadingWilliam L. Shirer
Journalist and historian of WWII broadcasts
Born
February 23rd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1993 32 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent journalist and historian, this individual covered major events during World War II. Early in his career, worked for the Chicago Tribune and later joined CBS, becoming a key radio correspondent in Europe. Provided live radio broadcasts during pivotal moments of the war, including the fall of Paris and the end of the conflict. Authored several historical works, with 'The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich' being the most notable, offering a comprehensive history of Nazi Germany and its leaders. The comprehensive research and narrative style contributed significantly to the field of historical journalism.
Continue ReadingAndrea Gritti
Doge of Venice during War of the League of Cambrai
Born
April 17th, 1455 570 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1538 487 years ago — 83 years old
Served as Doge of Venice from 1523 until 1538. Played a key role in the politics of the Republic of Venice, particularly during the War of the League of Cambrai. Managed to restore Venice's influence in trade across the Mediterranean after the conflict. Promoted various naval and military reforms to strengthen the Venetian fleet. Oversaw significant construction projects in the city, contributing to the architectural landscape of Venice.
Continue ReadingEduard Strauss
Composer and conductor of waltzes
Born
March 15th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1916 109 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1835, a composer and conductor from Austria, primarily associated with the genre of waltz music. Contributed significantly to the family tradition of waltz composition established by Johann Strauss I and Johann Strauss II. Conducted the Strauss orchestras in numerous performances throughout Europe. Composed several popular waltzes and polkas, solidifying a reputation within the genre. Held a prominent position in the Viennese music scene.
Continue ReadingAllan Dwan
Film director and screenwriter with 'Robin Hood'
Born
April 3rd, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1981 44 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1885, this individual had a prolific career in the film industry, directing over 400 films. Contributions spanned from the silent era to the advent of sound in cinema. Significant works include 'Robin Hood' (1922) and 'The Iron Mask' (1929). Dwan's career extended into the 1950s, illustrating a notable adaptability to changing film styles and technologies. Inducted into the Canadian Walk of Fame, his influence on early Hollywood remains evident.
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