John A. Dahlgren
American admiral and naval innovator
Born in 1809, this admiral served in the United States Navy and contributed significantly to naval warfare. He developed the Dahlgren gun, a revolutionary naval cannon that improved artillery capability on warships. He participated in the Mexican-American War and played a key role during the Civil War, commanding naval operations against Confederate forces. As a strong advocate for advancements in naval technology, his work laid the foundation for future innovations in naval artillery.
Developed the Dahlgren gun
Commanded naval operations during the Civil War
Other People Born on November 13th
Adrienne Corri
Scottish actress in film and theater
Born
November 13th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1931 in Scotland, a prominent actress appeared in various films and television series throughout her career. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'A Clockwork Orange' and 'The Ladykillers.' Her stage work included performances in notable productions, showcasing significant talent in both classical and contemporary theater. Continued to act into later years, contributing to British film and theater.
Continue ReadingMary Wigman
German dancer and choreographer
Born
November 13th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 87 years old
A pioneer in modern dance, contributed significantly to the development of expressionist dance. Established a dance school in Dresden and played a vital role in the rise of German dance as an art form. Created several influential works, including 'Witch Dance' and 'The Temptation of St. Anthony'. Participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympics as a choreographer, showcasing the importance of dance in German culture during this period.
Continue ReadingC. Vann Woodward
Historian and author of The Burden of Southern History
Born
November 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1999 26 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent historian and academic, contributed significantly to the study of the American South. Authored several influential works, including "The Burden of Southern History," which examined the complexities of Southern identity and culture. Held academic positions at prestigious institutions and participated in various historical organizations. Engaged with the historiography of issues such as race, class, and sectionalism in American history.
Continue ReadingKelly Sotherton
English sprinter and long jumper
Born
November 13th, 1976 49 years ago
Competed in athletics, specializing in sprinting and long jump. Achieved a bronze medal in the heptathlon at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Secured multiple national titles in various events, establishing a reputation in the British athletics scene. Also participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, representing Great Britain, and continued to contribute to athletics through coaching and mentoring younger athletes.
Continue ReadingAlbert I
Prince of Monaco and oceanographer
Born
November 13th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1922 103 years ago — 73 years old
Prince of Monaco from 1889 until 1922. Engaged in oceanographic research and contributed significantly to the study of marine biology and oceanography. Established the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco in 1910, which became a prominent institution for marine science. Advocated for the protection of the Mediterranean Sea and initiated various oceanographic expeditions, leading to advancements in the understanding of marine ecosystems. Worked to modernize Monaco's institutions and economy during his reign, transforming it into a notable tourist destination.
Continue ReadingA. W. Mailvaganam
Physicist and academic from Sri Lanka
Born
November 13th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1987 38 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of physics in Sri Lanka. Played a key role in the development of higher education in the country, particularly in the establishment of academic programs in physical sciences. Served as a professor at the University of Colombo and was instrumental in enhancing research initiatives within the institution. His work extended to numerous publications that advanced understanding in various branches of physics, cementing a legacy in academic contributions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 12th
Jimmy Driftwood
Singer-songwriter and banjo player
Born
June 20th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed significantly to American folk music as a singer-songwriter and banjo player. Gained prominence with the song 'The Battle of New Orleans', which won a Grammy Award. Engaged in education through music, composing over 300 songs while also serving as a school principal. Efforts to promote traditional folk music are noted in various recordings and performances.
Continue ReadingBill Viola
Video and installation artist known for "The Crossing"
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent video and installation artist, contributed significantly to the development of contemporary video art. Explored themes of life, death, and the human experience through immersive installations. Gained recognition with works such as "The Crossing," which showcased the profound emotional resonance of imagery and sound. Engaged with various technologies to create thought-provoking visual experiences that challenge perceptions of reality and time.
Continue ReadingWilliam D. Coleman
13th President of Liberia
Born
July 18th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1908 117 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 13th President of Liberia from 1920 to 1921. His administration focused on government reforms and economic developments, addressing various national issues during a challenging period in Liberian history. His leadership came at a time when the nation was navigating post-World War I complexities and internal political dynamics. Attempted to stabilize the country and promote progress but faced numerous challenges. His presidency was a critical phase in the evolution of Liberia's governance.
Continue ReadingJames P. Hogan
English-Irish science fiction author
Born
June 27th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 69 years old
An author, primarily recognized for contributions to science fiction literature. Wrote several novels exploring themes of technology, society, and the human condition. Gained a significant readership with works that combine imaginative storytelling with scientific accuracy. The career spanned multiple decades, leading to a robust bibliography and an active participation in science fiction communities.
Continue ReadingSherwood Schwartz
Television producer behind sitcoms
Born
November 14th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent television producer and writer, this individual created several beloved sitcoms during the mid-20th century. The most notable works include 'The Brady Bunch' and 'Gilligan's Island', which became iconic representations of American family life and adventure, respectively. Schwartz also contributed to the development of variety shows, enhancing the landscape of television comedy. His ability to create engaging characters and memorable storylines established a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingBoris Galerkin
Mathematician and engineer, creator of FEM
Born
March 4th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1945 80 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Russia, contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and engineering. Developed the finite element method, a fundamental technique in engineering analysis and simulation. Worked on various problems in structural mechanics and elasticity theory. Published numerous research papers that laid the groundwork for future developments in numerical methods.
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