Josef Škvorecký
Czech-Canadian author and publisher
An author and publisher, this individual played a significant role in the literary landscape of the Czech Republic and Canada. Emigration to Canada occurred in the 1960s, where contributions to literature continued. Notable works include 'The Cowards' and 'Mirrors of My Soul', reflecting on personal and cultural themes. Also, this individual co-founded a publishing house that focused on promoting Czech literature and aiding expatriated authors.
Wrote 'The Cowards'
Published 'Mirrors of My Soul'
Co-founded a Czech publishing house
Other People Born on September 27th
James H. Wilkinson
Mathematician and computer scientist
Born
September 27th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1986 39 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed significantly to numerical analysis and computing. Worked on the development of algorithms for solving linear equations and matrix problems. Authored influential texts on numerical methods and computing. Held a key role in the establishment of the first computer at the University of Cambridge.
Continue ReadingMarcia Neugebauer
Geophysicist and researcher
Born
September 27th, 1932 93 years ago
A prominent figure in geophysics, contributed significantly to the understanding of the Earth's magnetic field and solar wind interactions. Played a key role in space science through involvement with NASA's Voyager and other space missions. Conducted extensive research on planetary magnetospheres and contributed papers in the field of space physics.
Continue ReadingFred Singer
Physicist and climate change skeptic
Born
September 27th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 96 years old
This physicist emigrated from Austria to the United States, contributing significantly to atmospheric and space sciences. Worked at institutions including NASA and the University of Virginia. Instrumental in promoting the idea that climate change is not primarily driven by human activities. Published numerous articles and books, influencing discussions around environmental policy and scientific research.
Continue ReadingWilliam "Bull" Nelson
American General during the Civil War
Born
September 27th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1862 163 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1824, this American general served in the Union Army during the Civil War. He played a significant role in numerous battles, particularly in the Western Theater. He was appointed a brigadier general and commanded Union forces at the Battle of Shiloh, where his leadership contributed to the Union victory. His career was marked by service in various campaigns, and he became recognized for his aggressive tactics and ability to motivate troops. Tragically, he was assassinated by a subordinate in 1862, which cut short a promising military career.
Continue ReadingRomano Scarpa
Italian author and illustrator of comics
Born
September 27th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2005 20 years ago — 77 years old
An Italian author and illustrator contributed significantly to the world of comics, especially through work with Disney characters. Created iconic stories featuring Donald Duck and other classic Disney personas, often collaborated with notable artists on comic strips. Worked primarily for the Italian comic book industry, noted for unique storytelling and distinctive art style. Received recognition for contributions to children's literature and comic art, inspiring future generations of illustrators.
Continue ReadingArthur Penn
Film director; 'Bonnie and Clyde'
Born
September 27th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2010 15 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent film director and producer, this individual emerged in the 1960s and became influential in the New Hollywood era of filmmaking. The direction of the film 'Bonnie and Clyde' in 1967, which redefined the crime genre, marked a significant moment in cinema. Other notable works include 'The Miracle Worker' and 'Little Big Man,' showcasing a blend of innovative storytelling and character-driven narratives. This individual's work often focused on themes of social conflict and moral ambiguity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 3rd
Pierre Larousse
French lexicographer and publisher
Born
October 23rd, 1817 208 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1875 151 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent French lexicographer and publisher, contributed significantly to the field of reference works. Founded Larousse, a publishing company, renowned for its dictionaries and encyclopedias. Published the first edition of 'Le Grand Dictionnaire Universel' in 1866, which became a standard within French lexicography. His approach combined thorough research with a focus on clarity and accessibility, influencing future reference publications.
Continue ReadingReginald Punnett
British geneticist and biologist
Born
June 20th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1967 59 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed significant work in the field of genetics. Developed the Punnett square, a tool used to predict the genotypes of offspring from parental crosses. Conducted research on the inheritance of traits in pea plants, building on early principles of Mendelian genetics. Worked at the University of Cambridge, engaging in various research projects related to evolution and heredity. Published several influential papers and books, contributing to the foundation of modern genetics.
Continue ReadingJack Ruby
Businessman involved in JFK assassination
Born
1911 115 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1967 59 years ago — 56 years old
A businessman in Dallas, this individual gained notoriety for the murder of Lee Harvey Oswald, the alleged assassin of President John F. Kennedy. On November 24, 1963, he shot Oswald in the basement of the Dallas Police Department while Oswald was being transferred to another jail. This act was apparent revenge for the assassination of the president, which led to widespread media coverage and public speculation regarding motivations and state of mind. Following the murder, an intense legal battle ensued, resulting in a conviction of murder and a death sentence, which was later overturned on appeal. The individual died in prison from cancer in 1967.
Continue ReadingWalkelin
Bishop of Winchester
Died
January 3rd, 1098 928 years ago — None years old
Served as the Norman bishop of Winchester from 1070 until death in 1098. Contributed to the construction of the new Winchester Cathedral, which became a significant religious site. Played a crucial role in the Norman church hierarchy and the consolidation of Norman power in England following the 1066 conquest. Engaged in ecclesiastical reform and supported the establishment of monastic communities.
Continue ReadingPeter Naur
Danish computer scientist and academic
Born
October 25th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2016 10 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of computer science and programming languages. Developed an early version of the Algol programming language and worked on the concept of formal grammar. Played a key role in the establishment of computer science as a distinct academic discipline. Authored various influential works, notably on the syntax and semantics of programming languages, and contributed to the formulation of the Backus-Naur form, a notation for expressing context-free grammars. Had a deep interest in the epistemology of computer science and its philosophical implications.
Continue ReadingLouis I
Prince of Monaco
Born
February 9th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1701 325 years ago — -63 years old
Ruled as the prince of Monaco during the 17th century. Louis I ascended to the throne in 1662 and oversaw the development of the principality. His reign is marked by efforts to solidify the power of the Grimaldi family and to promote the economic interests of Monaco. He implemented policies that enhanced the administrative structures of the state. Louis I also engaged in diplomatic relations with neighboring countries to secure Monaco's position in the region. His leadership contributed to the establishment of Monaco's lasting legacy as a sovereign entity.
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