John Ambrose Fleming
Physicist, Inventor of the Vacuum Tube
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Contributions to electrical engineering and physics include the invention of the vacuum tube in 1904, which facilitated the development of radio technology and electronic communication. Developed the Fleming valve, crucial for early electronic amplifiers. Held a professorship at University College London and served as president of the Institution of Electrical Engineers. Engaged in various scientific organizations, contributing to advancements in telephony and radio broadcasting.
Invented the vacuum tube in 1904
Developed the Fleming valve
Other People Born on November 29th
Adam Clayton Powell Jr.
Pastor and U.S. Congressman
Born
November 29th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1972 53 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a prominent pastor and U.S. Congressman from New York. Led the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem for over 25 years, transforming it into a community powerhouse. Elected to Congress in 1945, represented Harlem and advocated for civil rights and social reform. Instrumental in the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Became the first African American to be elected to Congress from New York, serving until 1971. Established the first congressional subcommittee on health and educational issues.
Continue ReadingMadeleine L'Engle
Author of A Wrinkle in Time
Born
November 29th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2007 18 years ago — 88 years old
An accomplished author and poet, recognized for contributions to children's literature and science fiction. The most notable work, A Wrinkle in Time, was published in 1962 and received widespread acclaim. This book marked the beginning of a successful series that blended elements of fantasy, science fiction, and spirituality. L'Engle also published numerous other novels, essays, and poetry collections throughout her career, many of which explored themes of faith, love, and the interconnectedness of all people. In addition to writing, she held various teaching positions, influencing generations of young writers. Awards include the Newbery Medal in 1963 and the Margaret A. Edwards Award in 1986.
Continue ReadingTheodor Escherich
Pediatrician and microbiologist, Escherichia coli discoverer
Born
November 29th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1911 115 years ago — 53 years old
A German-Austrian pediatrician and academic contributed significantly to microbiology. His work focused on intestinal bacteria, leading to the discovery of a specific bacterium named Escherichia coli, which plays a crucial role in understanding human gut flora. Emphasis was placed on children's diseases and nutritional disorders. Escherich published various scientific papers that laid the groundwork for future research in bacteriology and pediatrics, including studies on infantile diarrhea and dysentery.
Continue ReadingGarry Shandling
American comedian and actor of 'The Larry Sanders Show'
Born
November 29th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2016 10 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent figure in the world of comedy and television, this individual gained recognition for pioneering the modern talk show format. Created and starred in 'The Larry Sanders Show', which showcased a behind-the-scenes look at a late-night talk show and received widespread acclaim. Additionally, played a significant role in 'It's Garry Shandling's Show', further solidifying a legacy in comedic television. Contributed as a writer and performer on various projects, influencing a generation of comedians with a unique blend of humor and insight.
Continue ReadingMinnie Miñoso
Baseball player, 1959 AL All-Star
Born
November 29th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
March 1st, 2015 11 years ago — 89 years old
A Cuban-American baseball player and coach, Miñoso played primarily for the Chicago White Sox during his career, which spanned multiple decades. Miñoso debuted in Major League Baseball in 1949 and was recognized as one of the early Latino stars in the league. His playing style and prowess contributed to his selection as an All-Star in 1959. His contributions to the game extended beyond his playing years, as he also served in coaching roles. Miñoso's legacy includes advocating for Latin American players and his efforts to promote diversity in baseball.
Continue ReadingMildred Gillars
Broadcaster and WWII Propagandist
Born
November 29th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1988 38 years ago — 88 years old
Worked as a broadcaster employed by Nazi Germany during World War II. Utilized the radio to disseminate propaganda aimed at American troops and the general public. Known for producing a series of programs that blended news and entertainment with propaganda, influencing perceptions during the war.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 18th
Brian Priestman
English conductor and academic
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
April 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent conductor and music educator, significant contributions were made to the field of classical music. Conducted various orchestras, including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Served as a professor at multiple institutions, influencing the next generation of musicians. Worked extensively in operatic and orchestral settings, taking part in numerous international festivals.
Continue ReadingGustave Moreau
French painter known for Symbolism
Born
April 6th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1898 127 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in the Symbolist movement, this painter is recognized for his elaborate and fantastical works. He studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and displayed his talent at the Salon, gaining significant attention. Themes of mythology and fantasy permeated his paintings, characterized by intricate details and vibrant colors. A key influence on subsequent generations of artists, this individual's work inspired the likes of the Fauves and Surrealists. In addition to painting, he contributed to the academic field as a teacher, leaving a lasting legacy in art education.
Continue ReadingCharles Pratt
English lawyer and Lord Chancellor
Born
1714 312 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1794 231 years ago — 80 years old
Served as Lord Chancellor of Great Britain, overseeing significant legal reforms. Practiced law as a barrister and became known for his contributions to the legal system in England. Appointed as the first Earl Camden in 1776, holding a prominent role in both judicial and political spheres. Contributed to landmark cases that shaped common law, influencing the legal landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingLuis Martín
Spanish religious leader, Superior-General
Born
August 19th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1906 119 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the 24th Superior-General of the Society of Jesus, overseeing significant administrative and spiritual developments within the Order. Led the Society during a period of expansion and strengthening of its mission worldwide. Contributed to the revitalization of Jesuit education and the renewal of Jesuit spirituality in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingLouis Feuillée
French astronomer and botanist
Born
1660 366 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1732 293 years ago — 72 years old
An astronomer, geographer, and botanist, contributed to the understanding of the southern hemisphere's flora and celestial phenomena. Participated in several scientific expeditions to South America, conducting extensive research on various plant species and astronomical observations. Published works that included detailed charts and writings on astronomical studies and botanical classifications. The exploration of the natural history in New Spain was significant to the scientific community of the time.
Continue ReadingLyra McKee
Irish journalist and author
Born
March 31st, 1990 35 years ago
Died
April 18th, 2019 6 years ago — 29 years old
A journalist and author recognized for investigative reporting, particularly focused on issues affecting Northern Ireland. Contributed to various publications, including the Guardian and Atlantic. Wrote ‘Angels with Blue Faces,’ a book that explored the life and death of a young man from Derry, and delved into the legacy of the Troubles. McKee was also an advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Passed away in 2019 during a riot in Derry while reporting.
Continue Reading