John Backus

Computer Scientist, Designed Fortran

John Backus - Computer Scientist, Designed Fortran
Born

1924
101 years ago

Died

March 17th, 2007
18 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

United States

Links & References

A mathematician and computer scientist contributed significantly to computer programming. Developed Fortran, the first high-level programming language, which was widely adopted for scientific and engineering applications. Led a team at IBM that created the language, revolutionizing how developers wrote code. Worked on various other projects including functional programming concepts, impacting the evolution of programming languages.

Developed Fortran, the first high-level programming language

Conducted research on functional programming

Other People Who Died on March 17th

Ashikaga Yoshikazu

Japanese shōgun during the Muromachi period
Born
August 27th, 1407 618 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1425 600 years ago — 17 years old

Served as the sixth shōgun of the Ashikaga shogunate from 1423 until 1425. His tenure was marked by a continuation of the political instability that affected the region. Yoshikazu attempted to manage conflicts between rival factions and uphold the authority of the shogunate. His reign ended with his death in 1425, which led to further power struggles within the Ashikaga clan and the weakening of shogunal authority in subsequent years.

Continue Reading

Nada Dimić

People's Hero of Yugoslavia
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1942 83 years ago — 19 years old

Recognized as a People's Hero of Yugoslavia, contributed to resistance movements during World War II. Dimić became a symbol of bravery and resistance against the Axis powers. Captured and killed by occupational forces, Dimić's legacy continued as a martyr for the Serbs during the conflict. Her actions during tumultuous times exemplified commitment to her ideals.

Continue Reading

Irène Joliot-Curie

French physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 12th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1956 69 years ago — 58 years old

A physicist and chemist, the individual conducted significant research in radioactivity and nuclear physics. In partnership with the spouse, discoveries included artificial radioactivity. The contributions led to the awarding of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1935. Work also involved teaching and promoting scientific research in France. The legacy includes influence in academia and advancement in nuclear science.

Continue Reading

Capucine

French actress and model
Born
January 6th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1990 35 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1928, this performer excelled in the entertainment industry. Initially gaining recognition as a model, transitioned to acting in the 1950s. Appeared in multiple films, with significant roles in 'The Pink Panther' and 'What's New Pussycat?'. Worked alongside prominent actors and directors throughout a career that spanned several decades, becoming a notable figure in both French and international cinema.

Continue Reading

John Magufuli

Fifth President of Tanzania
Born
October 29th, 1959 65 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2021 4 years ago — 61 years old

Served as the fifth president of Tanzania from 2015 until death in 2021. Magufuli was a member of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi party and previously held the position of Minister of Works. Focused on infrastructure development and anti-corruption measures, his administration initiated various public projects, including roads and hospitals. Implemented policies aimed at reducing government spending and increasing revenue through tax collection. His leadership style received mixed reactions, characterized by a crackdown on dissent and media freedom.

Continue Reading

Louis of Enghien

French nobleman and military leader
Died
March 17th, 1394 631 years ago — None years old

A French nobleman and military leader, served prominently in the late 14th century. Engaged in significant military campaigns during the Hundred Years' War, allied with various factions against the English. Participated in the battle of Poitiers, fighting for French interests. Held titles such as the Count of Enghien and played a crucial role in regional politics in France.

Continue Reading