Johns Hopkins
Philanthropist, Founder of Johns Hopkins University

Born
May 19th, 1795
230 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1873
151 years ago — 78 years old
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
United States
Links & References
A businessman and philanthropist established a university and hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. After amassing significant wealth through the wholesale mercantile business, dedicated a substantial portion of the fortune to charitable causes. The university, founded in 1876, became the first in the United States to implement a graduate school. Also contributed to the establishment of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, recognized as a pioneer in medical education and research.
Founded Johns Hopkins University
Founded Johns Hopkins Hospital
Other People Born on May 19th
Tina Strobos
Worked as a physician and psychiatrist, providing mental health care and treatment during and after World War II. Strobos participated in rescuing Jewish people from Nazi persecution in the Netherlands. After the war, continued medical practice and became an advocate for mental health awareness and treatment.
Continue ReadingHo Chi Minh
Played a crucial role in the struggle for Vietnamese independence from French colonial rule and led the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Established the Communist Party of Vietnam and fought against Japanese occupation during World War II. After the war, orchestrated the First Indochina War against French forces, leading to the Geneva Accords and the division of Vietnam. Governed North Vietnam during the Vietnam War, advocating for reunification and anti-colonialism.
Continue ReadingLena Einhorn
Director, writer, and physician. Developed a career in film and literature. Authored several works, including a widely recognized biography of Astrid Lindgren. Directed documentaries and features that gained attention in Sweden and beyond. Also contributed insight into historical and medical topics through written work.
Continue ReadingGary Kildall
Contributed significantly to the development of operating systems, particularly through the creation of CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers). Founded Digital Research, which provided software for microcomputers and played a key role in the early personal computing revolution. Developed one of the first operating systems compatible with the IBM PC. Later, CP/M was overshadowed by MS-DOS but was pivotal in establishing software standards and practices in the industry.
Continue ReadingPercy Williams
Achieved significant acclaim as a sprinter representing Canada. Competed in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, securing two gold medals in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Dominated Canadian sprinting in the late 1920s, setting national records and becoming a prominent figure in athletics. His Olympic victories contributed to Canada's success in the event, showcasing sprinting talents on an international stage.
Continue ReadingOliver Letwin
Served as a prominent politician and philosopher in the United Kingdom. Held the position of Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, focusing on government reform and policy development. Contributed significantly to various parliamentary committees and forums over the years. Engaged in discussions on issues such as social policy, public service reform, and the UK's relationship with the European Union.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 24th
Carlo Fornasini
Contributed significantly to the study of micropalaeontology in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Conducted extensive research on fossilized microorganisms and their applications in geology and paleontology. Published numerous scientific papers that provided foundational knowledge in the field. His work facilitated advancements in understanding the geological history recorded by microfossils, especially in Italian strata.
Continue ReadingAllan McKeown
A screenwriter and producer with a successful career in television and film. Contributed to the production of the UK version of 'The Office', which became a significant influence on the sitcom genre. Also worked on various other British television series, showcasing expertise in comedy and storytelling. Had a presence in both the UK and Hollywood, highlighting versatility in content creation across different cultural contexts.
Continue ReadingĐurađ Branković
Ruled as the Despot of Serbia from 1427 until death in 1456. Played a crucial role in the political landscape of the Balkans during the period of Ottoman expansion. Engaged in numerous alliances and conflicts to maintain Serbian autonomy against the Ottoman Empire. Managed to build a strong territorial state, with Smederevo as the capital. Contributed to cultural and religious life by supporting the Orthodox Church.
Continue ReadingBruno Taut
An architect and urban planner contributed significantly to modernist architecture in Germany. Renowned for the Glass Pavilion at the Cologne Exhibition in 1914, worked on housing projects influenced by social reform during the Weimar Republic. Later involvement in urban planning during the early 20th century aimed to merge architecture with social improvements, focusing on affordable housing. Engaged in theorizing about architecture’s role in society, published numerous articles and books about design principles and urban planning. Emigrated to Japan in 1936, continuing to influence architecture until death in 1938.
Continue ReadingRichard Bowes
An American author specialized in science fiction, produced a substantial body of work over several decades. His writing often explored themes of identity and reality, contributing uniquely to the genre. Bowes received recognition within the science fiction community for his innovative storytelling and complex characters. Worked as an editor for several literary publications, further shaping the landscape of speculative fiction. His novel 'Minions of the Moon' stands out as a significant contribution to the genre. Additionally, Bowes produced numerous short stories that garnered acclaim and were featured in prestigious anthologies.
Continue ReadingHeather Menzies
An actress gained recognition for a prominent role in the film "The Sound of Music" as Louisa von Trapp. The performance showcased significant talent in musical theater and film. Menzies also appeared in various television series, including "Beachcombers" and "The Muppet Show." Throughout her career, she took part in a variety of productions that highlighted her acting skills and dedication to the craft.
Continue Reading