John von Neumann

Mathematician and physicist, game theory

John von Neumann - Mathematician and physicist, game theory
Born

December 28th, 1903
121 years ago

Died

February 8th, 1957
68 years ago — 53 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

A Hungarian-American mathematician and physicist, contributions spanned various fields, including mathematics, physics, computer science, and economics. Developed game theory, providing a framework for analyzing competitive situations. Contributed to the creation of the first electronic computer, ENIAC, and advanced the field of quantum mechanics. Helped develop the Manhattan Project during World War II, which led to the atomic bomb. Worked on several mathematical theories, including functional analysis and set theory.

Developed game theory

Contributed to the Manhattan Project

Advanced the field of quantum mechanics

Other People Born on December 28th

Ids Postma

Dutch speed skater with Olympic medals
Born
December 28th, 1973 51 years ago

Competed in speed skating, achieving significant success throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Won multiple medals at the World Championships and European Championships. Represented the Netherlands in the 1998 Winter Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters event and a silver medal in the 5,000 meters. Known for strong performances and consistency in long-distance events.

Continue Reading

Frank McLintock

Scottish footballer and manager, Arsenal captain
Born
December 28th, 1939 85 years ago

A Scottish footballer and manager who played as a center-back. Played primarily for Arsenal, making significant contributions to the team's success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Captained Arsenal to win the First Division in 1970 and the FA Cup in 1971. Transitioned to management after retirement, leading various clubs including QPR and Brentford. His leadership on and off the pitch has been well-regarded in the football community.

Continue Reading

Gayle King

Television journalist and author
Born
December 28th, 1954 70 years ago

A prominent television journalist and author, her career spans several decades in broadcast journalism. As co-anchor of CBS This Morning, gained recognition for conducting high-profile interviews and delivering current news coverage. Also served as an editor-at-large for Oprah Magazine. In addition to broadcasting, engaged in various philanthropic efforts and advocacy work. Maintained a strong presence in media with her insightful commentary and reporting on significant cultural and social issues.

Continue Reading

Shigematsu Sakaibara

Japanese admiral and military leader
Born
December 28th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1947 78 years ago — 48 years old

An admiral in the Imperial Japanese Navy, Sakaibara served during World War II. He played significant roles in naval operations, including participation in the battles of the Pacific Theatre. After the war, he contributed to post-war military efforts and Japanese naval reform.

Continue Reading

Chris Coyne

Australian football player and manager
Born
December 28th, 1978 46 years ago

Played professional football primarily as a defender. Represented Australia at various youth levels before earning senior caps. Managed local clubs after retiring from his playing career. Contributed to the development of football in his home region through coaching roles.

Continue Reading

Martin Eisengrein

Theologian and religious reformer
Born
December 28th, 1535 489 years ago
Died
1578 447 years ago — 43 years old

Born in Germany, Eisengrein contributed significantly to the theological discussions of the Reformation period. He served as a pastor and was involved in the development of Lutheran doctrine. His writings addressed various ecclesiastical issues and helped shape the religious landscape of his time. His emphasis on scriptural authority and critique of church practices aligned with the broader Reformation movement. His work emphasized the importance of personal faith and direct engagement with the Bible, influencing both theological thought and practice.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 8th

Harriet E. MacGibbon

American actress and Broadway performer
Born
October 5th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1987 38 years ago — 81 years old

Became a prominent figure in theatre and television, primarily in the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances in productions such as 'The Best Man' and the soap opera 'Another World'. Her career spanned several decades, showcasing talent in various roles across different mediums. Continued to work in acting until the late 1980s.

Continue Reading

Rina Matsuno

Idol singer and performer in Japan
Born
1998 27 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2017 8 years ago — 19 years old

Began a career in music as a member of an idol group, gaining popularity for performances and releases. Participated in various music festivals and events, contributing to the idol culture in Japan. Released multiple singles and albums, collaborating with various artists in the Japanese music industry. Held concerts across the country and engaged with fans through various media appearances. Continued to influence the idol scene until passing in 2017.

Continue Reading

Alexios IV Angelos

Byzantine emperor during the Fourth Crusade
Born
1182 843 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1204 821 years ago — 22 years old

Ruled as Byzantine emperor from 1203 to 1204. Ascended to the throne after a coup that overthrew his father. The reign was marked by the call for assistance from the West, leading to an agreement with the leaders of the Fourth Crusade. This arrangement aimed to restore and reinforce the Byzantine Empire's territory and power, but it ultimately culminated in the sack of Constantinople. The reign ended with capture and execution following a revolt against his rule, which was plagued by instability and external pressures.

Continue Reading

Alexis of Russia

Tsar of Russia and key reformer
Born
1629 396 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1676 349 years ago — 47 years old

Ruled as Tsar of Russia from 1645 until death in 1676. His reign was marked by significant social and economic reforms in the Russian state. Oversaw the expansion of Russian territories, notably during the Russo-Polish War. Advocated for modernization and sought to strengthen central authority, while navigating the complex relationships among different factions within the country. His rule contributed to the eventual rise of more autocratic governance in Russia.

Continue Reading

Sid Abel

Ice hockey player and sportscaster
Born
February 22nd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2000 25 years ago — 81 years old

Played as a center in the National Hockey League for the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Black Hawks. Coached the Red Wings and served as a sportscaster after retiring from playing. Achieved notable success in ice hockey, contributing to team championships and serving in significant roles within the sport.

Continue Reading

Enoch Powell

British politician and health secretary
Born
June 16th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1998 27 years ago — 85 years old

A soldier and politician in the UK, served as a Member of Parliament for over two decades. Held the position of Secretary of State for Health from 1960 to 1963, influencing the direction of health policy during that time. Gained prominence for a controversial speech in 1968 that addressed immigration and race relations in Britain. Involved in various debates regarding social policy and was a member of the Conservative Party for much of his career.

Continue Reading