Joseph Fourier

Mathematician known for Fourier series

Joseph Fourier - Mathematician known for Fourier series
Born

March 21st, 1768
257 years ago

Died

May 16th, 1830
195 years ago — 62 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent mathematician and physicist, contributed significantly to the study of heat transfer and vibrations. Developed Fourier series, which express functions as sums of sines and cosines, enabling solutions in various fields including engineering, physics, and signal processing. Authored 'The Analytical Theory of Heat,' establishing the basis for heat conduction analysis. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sciences and was involved in the political sphere during the French Revolution, including governance in Egypt under Napoleon.

Developed Fourier series

Authored 'The Analytical Theory of Heat'

Contributed to the study of heat conduction

Other People Born on March 21st

Carwyn Jones

Welsh lawyer and First Minister of Wales
Born
March 21st, 1967 58 years ago

Served as the First Minister of Wales from 2009 to 2018, focusing on devolved governance and Welsh identity. Held various positions within the Welsh Labour Party and participated in lawmaking processes to address issues such as education, health, and economic development. Advocated for Wales in both domestic and European contexts, particularly during discussions related to Brexit and the future of devolution.

Continue Reading

Sonequa Martin-Green

Actress from Star Trek: Discovery
Born
March 21st, 1985 40 years ago

An American actress gained recognition for her role as Sasha Williams in the television series The Walking Dead. She starred in the critically acclaimed series Star Trek: Discovery as Michael Burnham, becoming the first African American lead in a Star Trek series. Martin-Green began her career in theater, performing in various productions before transitioning to screen acting. Her performances have garnered attention for their depth and complexity, contributing to her rapid rise in the industry.

Continue Reading

Alfred Tysoe

English runner, Olympic medalist
Born
March 21st, 1874 151 years ago
Died
1901 124 years ago — 27 years old

Competed in middle-distance running events in the early 20th century. Secured a place in the 1900 Paris Olympics, where earned a bronze medal in the 800 meters. Achieved prominence in national championships and represented England in several international competitions. Demonstrated excellence in athletics during a period when the sport was gaining popularity.

Continue Reading

Aaron Hill

Major League Baseball infielder
Born
March 21st, 1982 43 years ago

Born in 1982, an infielder in Major League Baseball played for teams including the Toronto Blue Jays, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Boston Red Sox. Debuted in 2005 and was selected as an All-Star in 2009 while playing for the Diamondbacks. Contributed significantly to the teams he played for throughout his career, showcasing strong batting skills and versatility in the infield positions.

Continue Reading

Kateřina Čechová

Czech sprinter and Olympic athlete
Born
March 21st, 1988 37 years ago

Competed in sprinting events, particularly specializing in the 400 meters. Participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, representing the Czech Republic. Achieved multiple national championship titles in sprinting disciplines. Has also competed in various European championships, showcasing consistent performances in track events.

Continue Reading

Nizar Qabbani

Syrian poet and diplomat celebrated for love
Born
March 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1998 27 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent Syrian poet, publisher, and diplomat, contributed significantly to Arabic literature. Published many volumes of poetry exploring themes of love, feminism, and social issues. Established the publishing house Qabbani & Sons, promoting literary works in the Arab world. Served as a diplomat in several countries, including Turkey and the UK, where exposure to different cultures influenced literary style. Regarded as a leading figure in modern Arabic poetry, both in terms of style and thematic exploration, with works being translated into various languages.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 16th

Fujiwara no Michitaka

Japanese nobleman and statesman
Died
May 16th, 995 1030 years ago — None years old

Served as a powerful court official during the Heian period. Played a significant role in the Fujiwara clan's political dominance, influencing imperial succession and governance. Engaged in various cultural pursuits, contributing to the era's artistic and literary development. Held the position of kampaku, acting as regent for the emperor, and was involved in notable court ceremonies and rituals.

Continue Reading

Heinrich Rohrer

Swiss physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 6th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Switzerland, a prominent physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of scanning tunneling microscopy. Co-developed the first working scanning tunneling microscope alongside Gerd Binnig. The innovative work allowed for imaging surfaces at the atomic level and transformed the field of nanotechnology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1986 for advancements in techniques to visualize surfaces. Involved in various academic endeavors throughout a lengthy career.

Continue Reading

Mehmed VI

Ottoman Sultan during World War I
Born
January 14th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1926 99 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1861, served as the last Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1918 until the abolition of the sultanate in 1922. His reign coincided with the tumultuous period of World War I and the subsequent occupation of Istanbul. Oversaw the empire during significant political and social changes, including the rise of nationalist movements. After the defeat of the Ottoman Empire, fled to Italy. His reign marked the end of a centuries-old dynasty that had ruled over vast territories, including parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Continue Reading

Django Reinhardt

Guitarist and composer in jazz music
Born
January 23rd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1953 72 years ago — 43 years old

A pioneering figure in jazz music, this guitarist and composer contributed to the genre through unique playing techniques and compositions. He developed a distinctive style that blended traditional jazz with gypsy influences, showcasing extraordinary improvisation skills. Reinhardt co-founded the Quintette du Hot Club de France, which became one of the most influential jazz bands of the time. His innovative approach to guitar playing, particularly the use of only two fingers due to a fire accident, set him apart from his contemporaries. His work remains influential among guitarists around the world, cementing his legacy in the realm of jazz.

Continue Reading

Kalle Hakala

Finnish politician and parliament member
Born
March 18th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1947 78 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a member of the Finnish Parliament for the National Coalition Party. Participated actively in political discussions and legislative processes during a significant period in Finland's national development. Contributed to the formulation of policies impacting various sectors, including education and social welfare. Engaged in efforts to promote national interests and represent constituents' views in parliamentary sessions.

Continue Reading

Robert Mondavi

Winemaker and philanthropist with famous winery
Born
June 18th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2008 17 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent winemaker established a winery in Napa Valley, California, in 1966. Played a significant role in bringing California wines to international recognition. Focused on producing high-quality wines and promoting viticulture techniques. Contributed to the wine industry through various philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of educational programs for wine enthusiasts and industry professionals.

Continue Reading