John Flamsteed

English astronomer and the first Astronomer Royal

John Flamsteed - English astronomer and the first Astronomer Royal
Born

August 19th, 1646
378 years ago

Died

December 31st, 1719
305 years ago — 73 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

England

Links & References

Contributed significantly to astronomy in England during the late 17th century. Held the position of the first Astronomer Royal, a title established by King Charles II in 1675. Created meticulously detailed star catalogs that included the positions of over 3,000 stars. Published the influential work 'Historia Coelestis Britannica', detailing precise observations of celestial bodies. His observations enhanced navigation and understanding of the solar system.

First Astronomer Royal of England

Published 'Historia Coelestis Britannica'

Other People Born on August 19th

José Rubén Zamora

Guatemalan journalist and media figure
Born
August 19th, 1956 68 years ago

Born in Guatemala, a journalist with a focus on investigative reporting and editorial leadership. Founded the newspaper Siglo XXI in 1990, which became a significant platform for political and social commentary. Faced multiple threats and challenges due to exposing corruption and governmental abuses. Played a crucial role in highlighting human rights violations in Guatemala during the internal conflict. Engaged in promoting press freedom and accountability in journalism.

Continue Reading

John Deacon

Bass player and songwriter for Queen
Born
August 19th, 1951 73 years ago

A prominent bass player and songwriter, this individual contributed to the British rock band Queen. He joined the band in 1970 and played a pivotal role in shaping their sound. The individual wrote some of the band's most memorable songs, including 'You're My Best Friend' and 'Another One Bites the Dust'. Performance highlights include the band's legendary Live Aid performance in 1985, which showcased their musical prowess and stage presence to a global audience. After the band's peak years, the individual chose to retire from the music industry in the late 1990s but remained involved in the band's legacy through various projects.

Continue Reading

Eustace Budgell

Journalist and politician in England
Born
August 19th, 1686 338 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1737 288 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1686, a journalist and politician contributed significantly to the political landscape of early 18th century England. Budgell served as a member of Parliament and was a prominent figure in the political discourse of his time. He was associated with the Whig party and engaged in various literary endeavors, writing extensively in periodicals. His work often focused on issues of the day and he was involved in political controversies that shaped public opinion. Budgell also played a role in the development of political journalism in England. His efforts in print media helped in advocating for political thoughts and ideologies of the period.

Continue Reading

Julius van Zuylen van Nijevelt

Dutch politician and Prime Minister
Born
August 19th, 1819 205 years ago
Died
1894 131 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1866 to 1868. Held various political positions within the Dutch government and was influential in the Liberal Party during the mid-19th century. Focused on promoting liberal policies and reforms, contributing to the modernization of Dutch politics and society. Played a role in the establishment of the Dutch constitution. Engaged in diplomatic relations, enhancing the Netherlands' presence in European affairs.

Continue Reading

Nafissatou Thiam

Belgian Olympic heptathlon champion
Born
August 19th, 1994 30 years ago

Competed in heptathlon and pentathlon events, achieving significant success on the international stage. Achieved a gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics in heptathlon, enhancing the profile of athletics in Belgium. In 2017, secured another gold medal at the World Championships in London, solidifying status as a top-tier athlete. Won multiple European Championships, consistently demonstrating remarkable versatility and skill.

Continue Reading

Maurice Wilks

Engineer and businessman, co-founder of Land Rover
Born
August 19th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1963 61 years ago — 59 years old

An English engineer and businessman significantly contributed to the automotive industry by designing the original Land Rover model. Education included studies at the University of Cambridge. Worked for the Rover Company, where innovation led to the development of four-wheel-drive vehicles. Established the Land Rover brand, which became synonymous with rugged utility and off-road capability. Through foresight, helped shape the modern automotive landscape, emphasizing durability and all-terrain performance.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 31st

Pope Sylvester I

Pope during the early Christian Church
Died
December 31st, 335 1689 years ago — None years old

Served as the Bishop of Rome from 314 to 335. Played a significant role in the establishment of the early Christian Church during a time of relative peace under the Roman Emperor Constantine. Oversaw the Council of Nicaea in 325, which addressed issues of Christian doctrine and unity. Presided over the expansion of the Church’s influence and helped to promote Christianity within the Roman Empire. Managed church affairs and facilitated the construction of prominent basilicas in Rome.

Continue Reading

Irina Korschunow

German author and screenwriter
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2013 11 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1925, contributions to literature included novels, children's books, and screenplays. Korschunow's work often explored themes of identity, culture, and the human experience. Some of the most notable works include 'Der Nussknacker' and various adaptations for television. In addition to writing, also engaged in translation and mentoring younger authors. Korschunow's career spanned several decades, and her writings have been recognized within literary circles in Germany.

Continue Reading

Raymond Impanis

Belgian professional cyclist and racer
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2010 14 years ago — 85 years old

Achieved success as a professional cyclist, specializing in road racing during the mid-20th century. Competed in numerous prestigious events, including the Tour de France and won stage victories and national championships. His career spanned over 15 years, during which he demonstrated notable endurance and skill. After retirement, remained involved in cycling and contributed to the sport through various initiatives.

Continue Reading

Roy Amara

American scientific researcher
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2007 17 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significant work in the field of futurism and technology forecasting. Played a crucial role in founding the Institute for the Future, which focused on understanding the implications of emerging technologies. Developed the Amara's Law, which states that the impact of technology is often overestimated in the short run but underestimated in the long run. Engaged in research that explored societal changes due to technological advancements, influencing various sectors including education and business.

Continue Reading

Zviad Gamsakhurdia

Georgian politician, 1st President of Georgia
Born
March 31st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1993 31 years ago — 54 years old

Gamsakhurdia served as the first president of Georgia following its independence from the Soviet Union. An anthropologist by training, contributions included advocating for the preservation of Georgian culture and identity. Elected president in 1991, his tenure faced numerous challenges, including political turmoil and civil unrest. In 1992, Gamsakhurdia was deposed in a coup and spent time in exile before returning to Georgia. His leadership style sparked controversy and divided the public, ultimately leading to a significant political crisis in the country. Gamsakhurdia's political legacy encompasses his efforts to establish a democratic government and promote national sovereignty for Georgia.

Continue Reading

Floyd Cramer

American pianist known for country music
Born
October 27th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1997 27 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent American pianist, contributions spanned multiple genres, with a specific influence in country music. Significant work in developing the Nashville sound during the 1960s, blending traditional country with pop elements. A session musician, played on numerous hits and worked with many artists in the country music scene. Released several solo albums and achieved success on the Billboard charts. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame for contributions to the genre.

Continue Reading