John Cockcroft
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
An English physicist contributed significantly to nuclear physics and particle acceleration. Developed the Cockcroft-Walton generator, which was the first device to accelerate protons to high energies. Led a team that achieved the first artificial nuclear reaction by bombarding lithium with protons, resulting in the release of alpha particles. Served as a professor and held leadership positions in various academic institutions, including the University of Cambridge.
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1951
Developed the Cockcroft-Walton accelerator
Other People Born on May 27th
Bora Paçun
Turkish basketball player
Born
May 27th, 1987 39 years ago
Played professional basketball primarily in Turkey and had a stint in the United States. Competed in multiple domestic leagues and international competitions. Contributed to teams in different capacities, showcasing talent on the court.
Continue ReadingCornelius Vanderbilt
Business magnate and philanthropist
Born
May 27th, 1794 232 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1877 149 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent American businessman, he made significant contributions to the shipping and railroad industries during the 19th century. Starting with a ferry service, amassed wealth through shipping by the time of the Civil War. Expanded into railroads, acquiring and consolidating lines, ultimately creating one of the largest railroad networks in the United States. Established the Vanderbilt University in Tennessee through philanthropy, leaving a lasting legacy in education.
Continue ReadingRosemary Squire
Theatre producer and manager, co-founder
Born
May 27th, 1956 70 years ago
Co-founded the Ambassador Theatre Group, one of the largest theatre companies in the UK. Played a crucial role in the production and management of various award-winning plays and musicals. Contributed significantly to the growth of the UK theatre scene, overseeing a multitude of successful projects throughout her career. Advocated for increased opportunities and recognition for women in theatre, influencing industry practices and standards.
Continue ReadingBuddhadasa
Thai monk and philosopher
Born
May 27th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
1993 33 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Thailand in 1906, a significant figure in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. Founded Suan Mokkh, a forest monastery in southern Thailand, emphasizing the integration of Buddhist teachings into daily life. Promoted the practice of mindfulness and meditation, contributing to contemporary interpretations of Buddhism. Engaged deeply with social issues, advocating for a return to original Buddhist principles to address modern challenges such as materialism and environmentalism. His teachings garnered national and international recognition, influencing both monks and laypeople.
Continue ReadingAllan Carr
Playwright and producer of 'Grease'
Born
May 27th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1999 26 years ago — 62 years old
A playwright and producer, significant contributions include the production of the hit musical 'Grease'. Also produced the film adaptation of 'Grease', which became one of the highest-grossing films of its time. Carr produced numerous theatrical productions and worked on various television specials during a successful career. His influence in the entertainment industry, particularly in musical theater, remains notable.
Continue ReadingBranko Oblak
Slovenian footballer and coach
Born
May 27th, 1947 79 years ago
Born in 1947, played as a midfielder in Slovenian and international football. Played primarily for Olimpija Ljubljana, contributing to the team's success in domestic leagues. Had a significant coaching career after retirement, overseeing teams in Slovenian football. Served as a coach for the national team, helping to develop young talent. Represented Slovenia in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 18th
Emil Fackenheim
German Jewish philosopher and rabbi
Born
June 22nd, 1916 110 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2003 22 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Germany, a prominent Jewish philosopher and Reform rabbi. Contributed significantly to post-Holocaust Jewish thought. Emphasized the importance of Jewish continuity in the aftermath of the Holocaust. Developed the concept of '614th commandment', advocating for Jewish existence in defiance of anti-Semitism. Served as a professor of philosophy at the University of Toronto, fostering deep engagement with existentialism and Jewish theology.
Continue ReadingHirofumi Uzawa
Economist and academic specializing in game theory
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
Contributions to economics included developments in game theory and economic dynamics. Developed the Uzawa-Lucas model which integrated human capital into economic growth theory. Served as a professor at various prestigious institutions, emphasizing the importance of mathematical approaches to economic problems. Engaged in significant research that influenced both Japanese and international economic policy.
Continue ReadingMauro Ramos
Footballer and manager, World Cup competitor
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2002 23 years ago — 72 years old
Played as a central defender in professional football from the 1950s to the 1970s. Represented Brazil in international competitions, including the 1962 FIFA World Cup, contributing to Brazil's victory. Had a successful club career, playing primarily for São Paulo FC, where he won multiple domestic titles. Transitioned to management, leading several clubs in Brazil after retiring from playing. Left a lasting legacy in Brazilian football.
Continue ReadingRuss Meyer
Film director known for adult films
Born
March 21st, 1922 104 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2004 21 years ago — 82 years old
A director, producer, and screenwriter emerged as a prominent figure in the adult film industry. Created a distinctive style characterized by melodramatic narratives, striking visuals, and bold thematic content. Established a production company, which facilitated the production of several influential films. Gained acclaim for working with strong female characters and exploring themes of sexuality and sexuality politics.
Continue ReadingLeonhard Euler
Mathematician and physicist, Euler's Formula
Born
April 15th, 1707 319 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1783 242 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent mathematician and physicist, contributions included advancements in calculus, graph theory, and topology. Introduced the concept of a mathematical function. Developed Euler's formula that establishes a profound connection between complex analysis and trigonometry. Published over 800 papers and books, making significant contributions to various fields of mathematics and mechanics. His work laid the groundwork for modern mathematics, influencing future generations of mathematicians and scientists.
Continue ReadingSeán O'Casey
Irish playwright and memoirist
Born
March 30th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1964 61 years ago — 84 years old
An influential Irish playwright and memoirist, work spanned the early 20th century. His plays often centered on themes of social issues and the Irish experience, showcasing the struggles and aspirations of ordinary people. Notable works include 'The Shadow of a Gunman', 'Juno and the Paycock', and 'The Plough and the Stars', which defined the Irish Theatre and highlighted the turbulent times of Ireland's fight for independence. O'Casey was also known for his autobiographical writing, where he chronicled his early life in Dublin and the impact of historical events on personal narrative.
Continue Reading