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
Henri 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 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 ReadingBob Benmosche
Businessman and AIG CEO
Born
May 29th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 71 years old
Led American International Group (AIG) as CEO during a critical period following the 2008 financial crisis. Oversaw the company's recovery and repayment of government bailout funds. Previously served as the head of MetLife, contributing to significant expansion and profitability. Held various executive roles in the insurance and financial services industry.
Continue ReadingRudolf Tobias
Estonian organist and composer
Born
May 29th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1918 107 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1873, this individual made significant contributions to the realm of organ music and composition. Studied music in Saint Petersburg and later settled in Estonia, where compositions reflected influences from both German and Estonian traditions. Played an integral role in the Estonian choral movement and contributed to various musical institutions. His work extended to teaching, where he shaped future generations of musicians. Active in the early 20th century, compositions included choral works and organ pieces.
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 ReadingDommaraju Gukesh
Youngest World Chess Champion contender
Born
May 29th, 2006 19 years ago
Born in 2006, this chess player achieved prominence in the international chess community at a young age. Competing in various tournaments, demonstrated exceptional skills and strategic thinking, leading to rapid ascension in player rankings. Became the youngest player to cross the 2500 Elo rating mark and has participated in prestigious events, representing India on global platforms. Notably competed against top grandmasters and gained recognition for remarkable performances in high-stakes matches.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 9th
Gerald Grosvenor
Duke of Westminster, philanthropist
Born
December 22nd, 1951 74 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2016 9 years ago — 64 years old
Born into aristocracy, held the title of 6th Duke of Westminster. Inherited significant landholdings in London, particularly in areas like Mayfair and Belgravia. Engaged in real estate and property development, contributing to urban development projects. Actively involved in charitable activities, supporting various causes related to education and healthcare. Held positions in various organizations focused on community and charitable endeavors.
Continue ReadingVincent Novello
Composer and music publisher
Born
September 6th, 1781 244 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1861 164 years ago — 79 years old
Born in England in 1781, a significant composer and music publisher contributed to the classical music landscape during the 19th century. Established a publishing house specializing in both sacred and secular music, making a vast array of compositions accessible in print. Collaborated with various composers and provided platforms for new works. Maintained an active role in the musical community, engaging with notable musicians and promoting their compositions.
Continue ReadingJames Van Allen
Physicist, Van Allen radiation belts
Born
September 7th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old
A physicist and philosopher, contributed significantly to space science and cosmic radiation research. Played a pivotal role in the early exploration of outer space through the development of scientific instruments. Led the team that created the first successful satellite, Explorer 1, in 1958, which discovered the Van Allen radiation belts. His work laid foundational knowledge for understanding Earth's magnetic field and its interaction with solar radiation.
Continue ReadingKayyar Kinhanna Rai
Indian journalist and poet
Born
June 8th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 100 years old
Born in 1915, this individual contributed significantly to journalism and literature in India. As an influential journalist, authored numerous articles and essays that shaped public discourse. Engaged deeply in poetry, published several collections that resonate with themes of nature and human experience. Actively participated in the literary community, promoting Kannada literature and culture through various platforms.
Continue ReadingFouad Serageddin
Egyptian Minister of Interior
Born
November 2nd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1999 26 years ago — 88 years old
Worked as a lawyer and served as the Minister of Interior in Egypt. Held the position during a transformative period in the country’s political landscape, managing internal security and public order. Engaged in significant governmental reforms and played a role in shaping law enforcement policies. Participated in various political activities and contributed to the administrative framework of the Egyptian state during his tenure.
Continue ReadingRobbie Robertson
Singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer
Born
July 5th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2023 2 years ago — 80 years old
A Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed significantly to rock music through solo work and as a member of The Band. Collaborated on foundational albums and soundtracks, including the prominent work on Martin Scorsese films. Gained recognition for blending rock with Americana and folk influences.
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