John Argyris
Computer scientist and engineer
An influential figure in engineering and computer science, contributed significantly to the development of finite element methods. Held academic positions at various institutions, including the University of Stuttgart, and continued research in computational mechanics and structural analysis. Authored numerous publications that served as foundational texts in computer-aided engineering.
Developed the finite element method
Published extensively in computational mechanics
Other People Born on August 19th
Madame du Barry
French royal mistress of Louis XV
Born
August 19th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
1793 233 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1743, served as the mistress of Louis XV of France. Started her relationship with the king in 1763 at a time when the monarchy faced political and social challenges. Became a prominent figure at the French court, known for her influence and connection to the king. Engaged in various cultural and social activities, hosted salons, and contributed to the arts during her time. Following the king's death in 1774, faced challenges in maintaining her status and ultimately lived in exile after the French Revolution.
Continue ReadingBrendan Nelson
Australian politician and Minister of Defence
Born
August 19th, 1958 67 years ago
An Australian physician and politician served as the 47th Minister for Defence from 2006 to 2007. Elected to the House of Representatives in 1995, represented the Division of Bradfield for the Liberal Party. Held various ministerial roles including Minister for Education, Science and Training. Promoted policies on health care, education, and national security during tenure in parliament. Transitioned from politics to leadership positions in the medical community, eventually becoming the President of the Australian Medical Association.
Continue ReadingPhilo Farnsworth
Television inventor and pioneer
Born
August 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1971 55 years ago — 64 years old
An inventor and television pioneer, significantly contributed to the development of electronic television. Developed the first working television system, which included the fully electronic method of scanning and transmitting images. Conducted several important experiments that led to the invention of the cathode ray tube technology used in early television sets. Established a significant patent battle over television against RCA.
Continue ReadingFrank McCourt
Pulitzer Prize-winning author
Born
August 19th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2009 16 years ago — 78 years old
An author and educator, achieved acclaim for a memoir detailing a challenging childhood in Ireland. The memoir chronicles experiences of poverty, family struggles, and immigration to America. Worked as a teacher in New York City for many years and incorporated experiences into writing. The culmination of this career came with the publication of 'Angela's Ashes' in 1996, which received widespread praise and the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography in 1997.
Continue ReadingWillard Boyle
Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics recipient
Born
August 19th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2011 15 years ago — 86 years old
A Canadian physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of physics. In 1969, invented the charge-coupled device (CCD) alongside George E. Smith, which revolutionized electronic imaging. This technology is widely used in video cameras, digital cameras, and astronomical imaging. The scientific contributions were recognized by the Nobel Prize in Physics awarded in 2009. Boyle worked at Bell Laboratories for many years, and his research focused on the development of light-sensitive devices, solid-state physics, and optical technologies.
Continue ReadingPatricia Scotland
Lawyer and Attorney General of England
Born
August 19th, 1955 70 years ago
Born in Dominica, a prominent lawyer and politician served as Attorney General for England and Wales from 2007 to 2010. Scotland became the first woman of color to achieve this position. In 2016, appointed as Secretary General of the Commonwealth, focusing on empowerment and resources for member states and emphasizing women's rights. Throughout the career, legal reform and public service were pivotal areas of focus, along with initiatives promoting justice and equality.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 2nd
Urs Widmer
Swiss author and playwright
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2014 12 years ago — 76 years old
An author and playwright from Switzerland, created a significant body of work reflecting contemporary Swiss society. Notable works include the novel 'The Green Meadow' and the play 'The Tin Drum,' which tackle themes of identity and cultural conflict. Engaged in literary circles, contributed to various cultural discussions and promoted the importance of literature in modern life. Worked as an editor and influenced future generations of writers.
Continue ReadingJohn Barth
American novelist and author of 'Giles Goat-Boy'
Born
May 27th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 2 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent American novelist, contributions to fiction include postmodern works that explore metafiction and narrative structure. Significant works span several decades, with a critical approach to traditional storytelling. Notable titles include 'The Sot-Weed Factor', which parodies the 18th-century novel and 'Giles Goat-Boy', which combines satire with philosophical themes. Engaged in academia, held teaching positions at several universities, influencing literary studies and creative writing.
Continue ReadingGallieno Ferri
Comic book artist and illustrator
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2016 10 years ago — 87 years old
Worked primarily in the comic book industry, contributing illustrations and stories from the 1960s onwards. Created and illustrated the character Zagor, a popular comic book hero published by Bonelli Editore. His artwork featured a blend of adventure and fantasy set in various intriguing environments. Collaborated with several writers and took part in different projects that expanded the presence of Italian comics both nationally and internationally.
Continue ReadingJohn C. Haas
Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2011 15 years ago — 93 years old
A businessman and philanthropist, significant contributions were made to the chemical industry and the arts. Served as CEO of Rohm and Haas Company, which was co-founded by his family. Played a crucial role in expanding the company's operations into various sectors. Involved with numerous philanthropic efforts, particularly in support of arts and education. Actively participated in various cultural institutions and served on boards to promote community development.
Continue ReadingHoyt Vandenberg
U.S. Air Force general
Born
January 24th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1954 72 years ago — 55 years old
Served as a general in the U.S. Air Force and played a significant role in the establishment of the Air Force as an independent service. Contributed to the development of airpower strategy during World War II and the Korean War. Later served as the Vice Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force and the Air Force Chief of Staff. Also held the position of Director of Central Intelligence for the Central Intelligence Agency.
Continue ReadingRobert H. Schuller
Pastor and author of 'Hour of Power'
Born
September 16th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2015 11 years ago — 88 years old
Founded the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California. Created and hosted the television program 'Hour of Power', which became one of the most-viewed religious programs in the world. Authored numerous books, including 'Tough Times Never Last, But Tough People Do!' and 'Moving Mountains'. Schuller promoted positive thinking and the possibility of personal transformation through faith. Established the Schuller Institute for Successful Aging.
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