John Harsanyi
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born in Hungary, an academic focused on game theory, utility, and social choice theory. Emigrated to the United States after World War II and continued work in economics. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1994 for contributions to analyzing cooperative games and bringing psychological insights into economic thinking.
Won Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1994
Developed concepts in game theory
Contributed to utility theory
Other People Born on May 29th
Nathan Horton
Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup champion
Born
May 29th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985 in Canada, this ice hockey player gained recognition in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted third overall by the Florida Panthers in 2003, achieved success with the team before being traded to the Boston Bruins in 2010. Played a pivotal role in leading the Bruins to a Stanley Cup victory in 2011, contributing to a strong postseason performance. Later played for the Columbus Blue Jackets before injuries affected career longevity. Announced retirement from professional hockey in 2018.
Continue ReadingGordon Rintoul
Scottish historian and museum curator
Born
May 29th, 1955 70 years ago
A historian and curator focused on Scottish history, significance in curating historical collections was notable. Led the National Museum of Scotland throughout various enhancements and expansions. Prioritized public engagement and education through exhibitions and events. Worked to preserve Scottish heritage via collaborative projects.
Continue ReadingErich Wolfgang Korngold
Composer of film scores and operas
Born
May 29th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1957 68 years ago — 60 years old
A composer, pianist, and conductor, he gained prominence in the early 20th century for significant contributions to classical music and film scoring. Active in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s, he became a leading figure in the creation of symphonic film scores. His operas, such as 'Die tote Stadt', showcased a blend of lush melodies and rich harmonies, reflecting the influences of his early training in Vienna. The Academy Award was received for Best Original Score for the film 'Adventure.' He collaborated with prominent figures in the film industry, solidifying his legacy in both concert music and popular culture.
Continue ReadingNataliya Dobrynska
Ukrainian heptathlete and Olympic medalist
Born
May 29th, 1982 43 years ago
Competed in heptathlon, achieving significant success in athletics. Won the gold medal at the 2005 World Championships in Helsinki. Secured a bronze medal in the heptathlon at the 2012 London Olympics. Established a personal best score of 7,395 points, ranking among the best in the event's history.
Continue ReadingGregg Sulkin
Actor in 'Pretty Little Liars' and 'Runaways'
Born
May 29th, 1992 33 years ago
An English actor gained recognition for roles in various television series, particularly in 'Pretty Little Liars' as Ezra Fitz and in 'Runaways' as Chase Stein. Early work included appearances in the British series 'As the Bell Rings'. Sulkin's transition to American television highlighted his versatility as an actor. He participated in multiple projects that showcased his talent, including roles in Disney Channel movies.
Continue ReadingHenri Braconnot
French chemist and pharmacist
Born
May 29th, 1780 245 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1855 171 years ago — 74 years old
Contributions include investigations in the field of carbohydrates and organic chemistry. Discovered and described the process of hydrolysis of starch and cellulose. Developed methods for extracting and utilizing cellulose from various plants. Published significant works detailing botanical products and their chemical properties.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 9th
James Brydges
English Duke and Lord Lieutenant
Born
January 6th, 1673 353 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1744 281 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1673, served in important political roles including the first Duke of Chandos. Held the position of Lord Lieutenant of Radnorshire. Contributed to the development of arts and culture through patronage, particularly in the realm of music and architecture. Engaged in various public affairs and governance, shaping the administrative landscape of the era. Participated actively in the political life of England during the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
Continue ReadingRuby Hurley
Civil rights activist and organizer
Born
November 7th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1980 45 years ago — 70 years old
Active in the civil rights movement, focused on advocating for African American rights. Served as the first female executive secretary of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in the late 1940s. Worked on the integration of schools and public facilities. Contributed to various campaigns to eliminate racial discrimination and promote social justice.
Continue ReadingArthur G. Cohen
American businessman and philanthropist
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old
Co-founded Arlen Realty and Development Corporation, which became a significant player in real estate development. Engaged in philanthropic activities that supported various charitable organizations and causes. Oversaw numerous projects that contributed to urban development and revitalization efforts.
Continue ReadingJohn Charles Fields
Mathematician and founder of Fields Medal
Born
May 14th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1932 93 years ago — 69 years old
A Canadian mathematician contributed significantly to the field of mathematics through the establishment of an award recognizing outstanding achievements. Fields served as a professor and dedicated his career to promoting mathematics in Canada and internationally. The Fields Medal, established in 1936, honors mathematicians under 40 years old for their exceptional work and has become one of the highest honors in mathematics, akin to the Nobel Prize in its importance.
Continue ReadingRobert Hampton Gray
Canadian Lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1945 80 years ago — 28 years old
Served as a pilot in the Royal Canadian Navy during World War II. Played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater. Earned the Victoria Cross posthumously for bravery displayed in a mission against Japanese ships. Died during a battle while leading a successful attack on enemy vessels, exemplifying courage and dedication.
Continue ReadingRuggero Leoncavallo
Italian composer of the opera Pagliacci
Born
April 23rd, 1857 168 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1919 106 years ago — 62 years old
Born in Italy, a composer gained prominence for contributions to the operatic genre. The most recognized work, 'Pagliacci', premiered in 1892 and became a staple of the operatic repertoire. His other significant works include 'Zaza' and 'I Medici'. Leoncavallo focused on the verismo style, emphasizing realistic narratives and emotional depth in his compositions. He also wrote numerous orchestral and vocal pieces throughout his career.
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